The name Ragakāpa translates literally to 'Cape Dune' or 'Horn Dune' in Latvian.
The park contains some of the oldest pine trees in the region, with many specimens exceeding 300 years of age.
The dunes are a nesting site for several protected bird species, including the European nightjar and the woodlark.
The park's unique microclimate is created by the interaction between the Lielupe River's freshwater inflow and the saline waters of the Gulf of Riga.
Large sections of the park feature rare 'dying' pine forests where trees are partially buried by shifting sands, creating a distinct aesthetic landscape.
Ragakāpa Nature Park is a protected area in Jūrmala featuring one of the highest sand dunes in Latvia, rising up to 18 meters above sea level. Established in 1962, the park covers 85 hectares of coastal landscape dominated by ancient pine forests. The area is defined by its preserved natural dune morphology and ecological significance as a habitat for rare plant and animal species. Elevated wooden boardwalks wind through the forest and across the dunes to protect the fragile terrain from erosion. The park sits at the confluence of the Lielupe River and the Gulf of Riga. It serves as a vital transition zone between the riverine environment and the Baltic coastline. The trails connect directly to the Jūrmala Open-Air Museum, which borders the park's southern edge.
The highest viewing platform overlooking the intersection of the Lielupe River and the sea.
Stick strictly to the marked wooden boardwalks to avoid damaging the unstable sand dunes.
Bring mosquito repellent, as the humid, forested areas are prone to insects during summer months.
Combine your visit with the adjacent Jūrmala Open-Air Museum for a historical perspective on coastal fishing life.
Attempting to hike directly on the steep, loose sand faces of the dunes, which damages the ecosystem.
Walking off-trail is prohibited; do not pick plants or disturb wildlife; keep dogs on a leash.
