A Fun-Filled Family Adventure in Eastern Estonia Makes Everyone Smile
Text Timo Raussi Photos Sören talu, Hannes Arus, Valmar Voolaid
You can learn SUP boarding not just at the Aidus Water Sports Centre, but also on the beaches of Narva-Jõesuu and Kauksi.
Traveling with kids requires a good mix of planning, smooth logistics, and a destination with something enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tips for families who haven’t yet explored Eastern Estonia through the eyes of little adventurers.
The region’s diversity is surprising for many first-time visitors. Just a couple of hours from Tallinn, between the Gulf of Finland and Lake Peipus, you’ll find sandy beaches, playgrounds and adventure activities, captivating history, and unexpected experiences.
Sandcastles, Fun in the Water, and Bogs with Secrets
Narva-Jõesuu’s sandy beach is the jewel of Eastern Estonia. With its soft, shallow shores and nearby playgrounds, it’s a dream come true for kids. You can grab ice cream or enjoy burgers at a tram café right by the beach. And if the weather turns sour, the Noorus Spa Hotel offers a large indoor water park with slides, warm pools, saunas, and wellness treatments for parents.
There are similarities to Pärnu, too: the three spa hotels in Narva-Jõesuu serve up classic kids’ favourites as well as more refined dishes. Just a 30-minute drive away, Toila Spa has a pool area with options for all ages, outdoor hot tubs, and sauna rituals. For those seeking peace and quiet, there’s an adult-only zone. A nearby mini-golf course, marina, the lush Toila-Oru Park, and a VR centre showcasing the area’s former manor palace add to the fun.
Kids who enjoy nature will love the Valaste Waterfall and Alutaguse National Park. Boardwalk trails lead through forests and bogs, offering adventures far from the city noise. The routes are family-friendly, and RMK rest areas offer perfect picnic spots. The park’s holiday and sports centre also features a 27-hole disc golf course—fun for beginners, and challenging enough for seasoned players.
Cities Full of Stories
Right on the Russian border, Narva Castle brings history to life: old walls and courtyards, a Finnish-language audio guide, and interactive exhibits that will captivate even young visitors. Time flies by at Riverside Promenade and Äkkeküla Recreation Area, with their playgrounds and the VR room in the old town hall.
The town of Sillamäe is perfect for a day trip. Its new beach area with climbing frames and the grand architecture of its old buildings form a surprisingly unique combo. The revamped museum offers plenty of hands-on exhibits, making it a hit with kids.
From Underground Tunnels to Hilltop Thrills
“Helmets on and into the tunnel by mine train!” At the Estonian Mining Museum in Kohtla-Nõmme, families can dive into the thrilling world of oil shale mining underground, in an authentic environment. A short drive away, the Kiviõli Adventure Centre turns an old mining hill into a full-scale amusement park. Mountain biking, a long zipline, climbing parks, and kids’ adventure courses provide a full day of excitement. The updated ticket system is flexible and family-friendly.
Lake Serenity and Local Culture
Stretching from east to southeast, Lake Peipus offers fun in the water as well as cultural experiences. Swimming, SUP boarding, and fishing are easy at the Kauksi beach centre, or you can stop somewhere else for a picnic or evening swim.
In the peaceful villages of Varnja and Kolkja, parents will be especially drawn to the heritage of the Old Believers. Among quiet village life, homemade pies and fish dishes are also appealing to little ones.
Genuinely Different—and Affordable
Eastern Estonia isn’t a polished, prepackaged destination—it’s more like a land of adventure where prices are more moderate than in Estonia’s popular western resorts. You won’t hear much Finnish at service points, but English works fine, and the atmosphere is genuinely welcoming. Everything essential for relaxed family fun is here—without the rush.
To learn more about this and similar topicsAidu Water Sports Centre Eastern Estonia family holiday in Estonia holiday in Estonia Kiviõli Adventure Park Lake Peipus Narva-Jõesuu Narva Castle
