The first visitors to the Baltics are often surprised by how beautiful the beach is. Granted, the climate isn’t quite ideal, but in the summer, the endless golden sands are a great place to let the kids unload with buckets and shovels. Jūrmala, just 20km from the capital, is the most beautiful coastal city in Latvia, filled with large wooden holiday homes and large spa hotels. For a more relaxed atmosphere, try Ventspils in the northeast.