[1] The name Carnikava is believed to be of Livonian origin, with Sarnikau translating as 'ash tree valley' (ošleja in Latvian).

Later Carnikava grew into a fishermen village, where in the 17th century the first breeding fishery and canned fish factory in the Russian Empire was built.

Due to its proximity to the Baltic Sea, several forest lakes, the Gauja and annual fishermen and craftsmanship fairs, nowadays Carnikava is a popular summer resort among visitors from Riga.

A notable symbol and long-time culinary specialty of Carnikava has been grilled lamprey, which is also pictured on the coat of arms of the parish.

Carnikava lamprey has been awarded the Protected geographical indication seal of the European Union and is included into the Latvian Intangible Cultural Heritage list.