Whether dipping your toes into the emerald seas of the Caribbean, swimming in the soothing Balearic, or sitting aside the expanses of the serene Indian Ocean, few people would contest that a journey to the seaside is a rejuvenating, restorative experience. You might not be surprised that experts have found that spending time near the water is in fact beneficial for your mind, body, and soul.

For your mind

You don’t even need to get in the water to experience the vast health benefits of being seaside. Studies have shown that people who simply dwell near the coast have better overall mental and physical health and that the sound of waves can produce a state of relaxation. If you do happen to be someone who loves to swim in the sea, research has also shown that swimming in open water may decrease depression and improve alertness and concentration.

The health benefits of being in and near the water are so expansive that Wallace J. Nichols Ph.D. wrote an entire book outlining the research around the benefits of the seaside. In Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do, Nichols outlines a plethora of truly incredible benefits that you can reap from a vacation along the coast. Mental health benefits described in the book include decreased stress and anxiety, increased mood, increased feelings of serenity, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, and so much more. The book also speaks to innovative programs that use proximity or immersion in water to address more serious conditions such as PTSD and addiction.

For your body

Surely you are familiar with the indescribable feeling of being refreshed and enlivened when you step out of the ocean? Well, science backs this up as well. Experts agree that there are many ways in which a dip in the ocean can support deep physical healing.

To begin with, the ocean is brimming with healthy vitamins and minerals that support health. One of these important minerals, magnesium, is crucial for humans and has also been shown to boost mood, lower blood pressure and have anti-inflammatory benefits. A long soak in the sea can also support skin health.

A swim in the ocean can also help you improve circulation, which helps deliver important nutrients and oxygen throughout your entire body, relieve muscle tension, and may help relieve chronic muscle pain or arthritis. A dip in cooler waters has potential for increasing your resistance to stress and disease.

If swimming just isn’t your thing, there are also benefits to just laying out next to the water’s edge. Spending time near the sea supports healthier breathing, due to the fact that marine plants produce about 70% of earth’s oxygen and spending time in the sun can deliver a healthy dose of Vitamin D, which can help fight disease, depression and aid in weight loss.

For the soul

Poets and artists have been writing about the mysteries of the sea for centuries. Take this excerpt from The Awakening:

“The voice of the sea speaks to the soul. The touch of the sea is sensuous, enfolding the body in its soft, close embrace.”

Kate Chopin

Are you ready to experience the mind, body and soul healing benefits of a seaside vacation? Here are some of our favorite properties to do just that.

Our Favorite Seaside Properties

Eden Rock St. Barths

Eden Rock St. Barths is a quintessential St. Barths resort. Located in St. Jean Bay, this luxurious property is surrounded by white sandy beaches, emerald seas and colorful coral reefs. Spending a week on the private beach of this amazing property will undoubtedly help you to restore and rejuvenate.

Aside from the sensorial experience of simply being in this gorgeously designed hotel in the middle of one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world, this hotel is perfect for guests who want to explore. The property boasts two divine restaurants, including Sand Bar by Jean Georges, the popular Rémy Bar, and is walking distance to many other favorite restaurants and boutiques on St. Barths.

The spa at Eden Rock is a divine, yacht-on-land themed experience that will magnify the healing qualities of your Caribbean-side vacation. Spa treatments using the renowned Ligne St Barth products immersed with plants’ healing powers and rich tropical flora will be sure to soothe all of your senses.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

One of the most luxurious properties in the Maldives, The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a jaw dropping resort with white sands and expansive ocean views that extends over three islands in the Indian Ocean. This property offers architecture lovers design and service along with several on-island venues that will make you feel like you want to stay forever. On-island amenities include 11 dining venues and bars including Terra, an elevated treetop restaurant, and The Ledge by Dave Pynt, a world-class lifestyle spa sanctuary, and adventurous ocean activities.

For a more intimate getaway that is amongst the best that money can buy, you can book Stella Maris Private Ocean Villas on Ithaafushi Private Island, a 32,000 sq. m. sanctuary. These private villas are exquisite properties that have direct ocean access, are accessible only by boat and offer service and amenities that are beyond customized and second to none.

Jumby Bay Island Antigua

Jumby Bay Island is a magnificent luxury private island in Antigua. It is truly one of the finest resorts just two miles off the coast of Antigua by private boat. A trip to this exclusive all-inclusive resort will replenish your mind, body and soul.

Spend your visit in deep relaxation sitting aside Jumby Bay’s stunning pools and private beach, nourishing your body with exquisite dining options that use sustainable produce harvested from the island and surrounding seas, and soaking in spa services that are deeply rooted in the heritage, customs, and natural environment of the West Indies.

If you are someone who craves excitement during your seaside vacation, Jumby Bay also offers exhilarating experiences such as guided water skiing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, cycling, tennis, yoga, and more, take a ferry to Antigua, or join the property for their weekly White Night Beach BBQ.

Make Jumby Bay Island your own intimate oasis by booking a villa or private residence.