From white sands to atmospheric resorts, our pick of the best beaches in Lithuania is here to inspire your next summer getaway. A Baltic gem tucked away in north-eastern Europe, the Republic of Lithuania is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Its coastline, stretching along the Baltic Sea, boasts a captivating blend of spotless beaches, towering sand dunes, and lush pine forests. From the bustling resort town of Palanga to the serene expanse of Nida Beach, the best beaches in Lithuania offer a diverse array of experiences, catering to every traveller’s preferences. Let’s explore!
Our pick of the best beaches in Lithuania
Palanga
The most-photographed beach in Lithuania, Palanga also boasts the grandest shoreline. A resort-like atmosphere permeates the air, with countless volleyball courts inviting friendly matches under the warm Lithuanian sun.
Palanga’s pièce de resistance – its expansive sandy shores – stretch for an impressive 18 kilometers. Clean sand beckons your bare feet while gentle waves lull you into seaside strolls.
Step on the iconic Juros Pier, a majestic 470-meter wooden structure that extends into the Baltic Sea, or take a dip in the refreshing waters.
For adrenaline junkies, Palanga’s thrills extend beyond the coastline. The bustling town centre offers amusement parks, water parks, vibrant nightlife, and various cultural events.
Planning a longer stay? Embark on an exhilarating hike through pine forests or explore Lithuania’s rich history in the museums located nearby.
How to get there: Palanga is easily accessible by plane, bus, or car. Palanga International Airport, located just 8 kilometres from the city centre, offers direct flights from major European cities. Numerous bus companies provide regular services to Palanga from Vilnius and other major cities. If you’re driving, Palanga is also well-connected to Lithuania’s highway network.
Šventoji
In contrast to Palanga, Šventoji offers a delightful family-friendly atmosphere and several amusement park thrills, making it a great choice for a holiday.
Its sandy beaches stretch for miles, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and seaside strolls. The gentle waves and clear waters – devoid of the harshness often associated with the Baltic Sea – are ideal for paddling and splashing around.
For those seeking a touch of excitement, Šventoji’s amusement park beckons with its carousels and a variety of rides that cater to both young and old.
How to get there: The Šventoji beach is easily accessible by road from Palanga, the nearest major city. A regular bus service connects the two towns, offering a convenient and affordable option for travellers. If you’re travelling by car, the drive takes approximately 20 minutes.
Melnragė
The moment you step onto Melnragė’s sandy shores, you’re greeted by the sight of kite surfers soaring through the air, their colourful kites dancing in the wind. As you watch their graceful movements, you can’t help but feel the urge to join them. Rent a kite and board, and soon you’ll be riding the waves, feeling the wind in your hair and the exhilaration of gliding across the water.
While kite surfing is the main draw, Melnragė Beach offers plenty for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Stroll along the white sand beaches, let the soothing sounds of the ocean wash over you, or simply bask in the warm sun. The area’s lush greenery provides a welcome contrast to the vast expanse of the Baltic Sea.
How to get there: Melnragė is located approximately 8 kilometres from Klaipėda. The easiest way to get there is by car, as public transportation is limited. Once you arrive, you’ll find ample parking near the beach.
Smiltynė
Smiltynė is district of Klaipėda located over the lagoon on the northern shore of the Curonian Spit. Home to several attractions, including the ruins of a 14th-century castle and the Lithuanian Sea Museum, this is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a side of culture with their sunshine.
Despite its admirable historical offerings, however, Smiltynė’s main attraction remains its seemingly endless stretch of unblemished sand. There’s a reason why this is known as one of the best beaches of Lithuania.
When you think about Lithuanian beach vacations, Smiltynė is about as classic as it gets. It is also a popular spot for kitesurfing during high season, as the winds on the Baltic coast are strong enough to provide plenty of power.
How to get there: The small town is located about 4.2 kilometres from Klaipėda, and you must take the ferry from here to reach Smiltynė. For foot passengers, take the Old Ferry and then the bus. For those travelling by private vehicle, take the New Ferry.
Juodkrantė
Unlike the bustling beaches of Palanga and Nida, Juodkrantė’s beach retains a sense of tranquillity. The lack of mass tourism allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Baltic Sea in a peaceful and unspoiled setting. This is also one of the best pet-friendly beaches in Lithuania, making it an ideal destination for families with furry companions.
A gem on the Lithuanian coastline, Juodkrantė’s beach is not only a haven for relaxation but also one of the best places for nature lovers. The surrounding dunes offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the Curonian Lagoon. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, seals, and even the occasional sandpiper.
Just outside of Juodkrantė is the Hill of Witches. A unique museum of wooden sculptures, where devils, witches and other characters of folklore reign supreme, visitors with an interest in the supernatural should be sure to check out the various exhibitions on display.
How to get there: Juodkrantė is easily accessible from Klaipėda by ferry. You will then need to take the bus, hire a bike or proceed in a private vehicle in order to reach Juodkrantė. Note that if you take your own car onto the Curonian Spit, you will need to pay an ecological fee. Once in Juodkrantė, you can explore the town on foot or by bicycle.
Nida
The historic fishing town of Nida is renowned for its charming wooden houses, which line the narrow streets of the Old Town. One of the most notable attractions is Thomas Mann’s summer house. The distinguished author built this house using the funds he earned upon receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature for his first novel, “Buddenbrooks.”
Beyond its cultural attractions, which make it perfect for small-group trips, Nida is blessed with the stunning natural beauty typical of the Baltic states.
The Curonian Spit, a narrow sand spit stretching over 98 kilometres along the Baltic Sea, is home to a delightful national park and made it to the UNESCO World Heritage list. It hosts gorgeous beaches, lush forests, and the iconic Parnidis Dune.
How to get there: The easiest way to reach Nida Beach is by passenger ferry from Klaipėda. While the journey isn’t exactly short – the car ferry ride takes approximately 4 hours – Nida is worth the effort.
More information
Travel from the UK to Lithuania typically involves daily direct flights from London airports (London City, Stansted or Luton) to Vilnius and Kaunas Airports. The flight duration averages around 2.5 to 3 hours.
For more information about the best beaches in Lithuania, see Lithuania Travel.
