When asked what kind of landscapes Estonia is most known for, you may immediately think of the country's bogs or snowy winter meadows. Those who know Estonia best know that the nation is also home to hundreds of deserted beaches, enticing fishing villages and sandy holiday resorts. As a coastline nation with around 2,000 islands, the types of beaches found here are as varied as the wildlife found along the shores.
Sandy shores
Pärnu – Estonia's most famous seaside resort town - is also actually the country's official Summer Capital. A coastline county with long, white sandy beaches its population grows six-fold during the summer months. On the other hand, for those seeking quieter shores, Narva-Jõesuu beach - by a small resort town off the Gulf of Finland, at the mouth of the Narva River - is one of the more idyllic beach settings in Estonia. With a legacy that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century, Narva-Jõesuu was a popular summer holiday destination for the St. Petersburg nobility of the time, who called it 'The Pearl of the Baltic Sea'.
Sandy shores
In the summer, many sandy shores turn into hotspots for holiday makers. Pärnu, Pirita and Narva-Jõesuu among them.
Photo by: Sven ZacekRock-covered stretches
On the other end of the spectrum, and of Estonia, lies Sõrve Peninsula and its shingle beach, covered in countless pebbles and stones. Though the beach's rocky grounds may mean that you find yourself admiring its beauty from afar, it is nonetheless a must-visit location for those interested in history. The area's lighthouse and the battle scars from heavy fighting during World War II still remain for curious visitors to see.
