20 best beaches in The Baltic coast of Russia

In the picturesque village of Yantarny, you'll find a pristine beach graced with the prestigious Blue Flag award. This accolade is a testament to the impeccable cleanliness of the coastline, the crystal-clear waters, the excellent ecological conditions, and the comfortable amenities that make for an idyllic vacation spot. Additionally, Yantarny is renowned for its abundant greenery, convenient transport links, and the historical architectural monuments that hark back to the era of the Prussian kingdom.

The beach in Pionerski is a modern, cozy, and prosperous resort nestled on the shores of the Baltic Sea. In 2011, one of the residences of the President of the Russian Federation was constructed on the outskirts of the coast, a development that had a positive impact on the resort's formation. By 2012, the beach in Pionerski had already earned the title of the cleanest and most well-groomed coast of the Baltic. Furthermore, the infrastructure of this resort began to flourish, drawing an increasing number of tourists from neighboring regions.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking panorama of St. Petersburg's heart from the shores of Peter and Paul Fortress Beach. This pristine locale plays host to an array of vibrant concerts, engaging group classes, and thrilling sports competitions. Nestled amidst a tapestry of architectural wonders, the beach's cleanliness is as impeccable as its surroundings. A stone's throw away lies a comprehensive suite of essential infrastructure, ensuring every convenience is at your fingertips. However, there is one caveat to this idyllic spot – swimming is strictly prohibited, a small price to pay for the splendor on offer.

Zelenogradsk Beach boasts a rich 200-year history, an abundance of architectural monuments, pristine soft sand, and crystal-clear waters. A variety of cafes, health resorts, mineral water pump rooms, and European-style hotels operate in close proximity. Visitors flock to this idyllic destination to enhance their well-being, unwind in luxurious comfort, and savor the finest offerings of Russian and German cuisines.

Laskovy Beach, located in the village of Solnechnoye, stands out as one of the finest, most well-maintained, and comfortable destinations for a beach vacation along the coast of the Gulf of Finland. Often likened to the beaches of Anapa for its sunny, warm, and inviting atmosphere, Laskovy Beach boasts expansive shallow waters, pristine sands, and superb infrastructure. These features have earned it the reputation of being the most beloved spot for family vacations in the vicinity of St. Petersburg.

In addition to its white sands and crystal-clear sea, Svetlogorsk Beach is renowned for its charming funicular, a plethora of vibrant architecture, intriguing relief, and expansive size. Adjacent to the beach is a 1.5-kilometer promenade lined with a multitude of catering establishments and comfortable hotels. The city itself offers all the amenities necessary for an engaging and carefree vacation.

Located on the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Finland - affectionately referred to as the Petersburg Sea in this region - the Park of Saint-Petersburg 300th Anniversary Beach has undergone significant transformations in recent years. These enhancements have made it a magnet not only for local residents but also for tourists seeking a serene escape. The beach boasts a well-developed infrastructure, complete with charming cafes, dynamic sports facilities, and inviting playgrounds, all designed to enrich your coastal getaway.

Kronstadt City Beach is immensely popular among both Petersburgers and visitors. Locals cherish it for its seclusion, pristine cleanliness, and comfort, while tourists are captivated by the opportunity to visit the Baltic Sea coast during their tours. Nestled within the city-port of Kronstadt, which lies on Kotlin Island and forms a municipal district of St. Petersburg, the beach is a hidden gem. Despite its relative remoteness from the city center, Kronstadt is easily accessible by car or public transport via the dam that stretches across the Gulf of Finland. En route, you can revel in the stunning vistas of the Baltic Sea and behold the panorama of the legendary fortress city in all its splendor.

Until the 1990s, Baltiysk was a closed city, with entry permitted only by special invitation. However, in the 2000s, these restrictions were lifted, allowing every Russian to enjoy vacations on the city's beach. Foreigners, though, must still coordinate their entry. While Baltiysk is not a traditional resort town, it annually attracts tourists and locals alike. They come not only for the beach vacations but also for the traditional parade of the Baltic Fleet ships, an event dedicated to Navy Day.

Zolotoy Beach in Zelenogorsk is one of the finest coasts in the Leningrad region and is particularly beloved by both Petersburgers and visitors to the city. Situated on the northern edge of the Gulf of Finland, approximately 60 km from the center of St. Petersburg, the beach is renowned for its golden-hued sand dunes. The unique softness of the sand here attracts numerous vacationers, even with minimal infrastructure. Additionally, the proximity of a vast park further enhances its popularity, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a picturesque beach vacation.

Sestroretsk Beach, a beloved holiday destination nestled along the Gulf of Finland's coast, lies in the heart of the charming resort town of Sestroretsk. Renowned for its plethora of sanatoriums, Sestroretsk Beach stands out as one of the most frequented among the city's beaches. Its consistently gentle waves make it an ideal spot for novices to embrace the thrill of kitesurfing, offering one of the finest settings near St. Petersburg to learn and enjoy this exhilarating sport.

Nudist Beach Dyuny, the sole establishment of its kind near St. Petersburg, nestles close to a pension sharing its name along the Sestroretsk shore. Renowned as a favored retreat for naturism enthusiasts and ranked among the top 1000 nudist beaches globally, Dyuny also offers designated areas along its extensive coastline for those preferring to remain clothed. Thus, despite its moniker, Dyuny Beach stands out as a versatile and highly sought-after vacation spot in the St. Petersburg region.

Suzdal Lakes is a picturesque natural area in the northern part of St. Petersburg and a popular holiday destination for citizens. During Soviet times, a cozy holiday village named "Ozerki" was established there, where the local bohemia would gather for the summer. Now, the territory is being actively developed with luxurious mansions belonging to representatives of the modern elite, who, shamelessly, protect their properties with high fences, thereby blocking ordinary citizens' access to the water.

Dontso Lake, often referred to as the "St. Petersburg Seychelles," is a man-made lake situated 75 km southwest of St. Petersburg. It is renowned for its clean and clear turquoise waters, making it an ideal destination for those planning a picturesque beach vacation.

Discover the serene beauty of Krasavitsa Lake (Bolshoye Simaginskoe), boasting an expansive beach adorned with coarse-grained, firm sand. Immerse yourself in its crystal-clear, refreshing waters, and feel the pleasant texture of the lakebed beneath your feet. Revel in the pristine air, and delight in the tranquility of an environment that remains largely untouched, save for the occasional remnants of a cigarette butt or candy wrapper. Here, you can bask in a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach vacation in Russia.