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It is often said that life is better by the beach… but as it turns out, there may actually be something to that claim. Walking along the sandy shores, dipping your toes in the water and watching the sun sink into the ocean might actually be good for your physical and mental well-being.

Read more about Del Mar Shores Beach Access

If you’re trying to justify booking a California beach vacation, here are 10 reasons why you’d be doing yourself a favor.

 

  • Sunshine is a great source of Vitamin D. Many of us are Vitamin D deficient, especially in the winter. Sunlight has also been shown to decrease depression. The California coast happens to be a very sunny place.
  • Seawater helps preserve your skin’s elasticity. Did you know the ocean is full of anti-aging minerals that can counter the decline of your skin’s elasticity? That’s a good reason to go for a swim!
  • Being at the beach forces you to unplug, which lowers your stress levels. Sure, you might snap a picture or two to put on Instagram later… but if you’re at the beach, you won’t be glued to your phone answering work emails.
  • You’ll sleep better after spending the day by the sea. After a few hours spent at the beach, your body will be primed for better sleep.
  • Going to the beach can improve your body’s ability to fight off infections. The iodine in ocean water is a wonderful immune system booster. It’s a natural antiseptic and even helps boost the function of your thyroid gland. You’ll notice a painful sting when an open cut is exposed to salt water, and that’s a sign that your wound is being cleansed.
  • You’ll have ample opportunities to exercise, which is great for your physical health. If you’re looking to get into better shape, try jogging at the beach—the sand will make running tougher and you’ll break a sweat sooner. There’s also surfing, swimming, volleyball or a good old-fashioned brisk walk. Beach games are another way to get exercise and satisfy your competitive urges.
  • The sand is a natural exfoliant for your skin. You’ll slough off dead skin cells on your feet and hands without even trying.
  • The color blue is a subconscious soother. The arousal mechanism stimulated by blue’s wavelengths correlates to the release of neurotransmitters associated with feelings of euphoria. So looking at the ocean is relaxing. It’s science!
  • Are your joints stiff? There is evidence that minerals in the ocean reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis patients who use bath salts tend to experience fewer flare ups. Guess what else can reduce arthritis symptoms? You guessed it: Vitamin D.
  • You’ll reconnect with yourself and your spirit. Whether or not you’re a spiritual person, there’s something about being by the ocean that puts you into a meditative state. The vastness of the sea, expansive horizon and beautiful surroundings make you truly appreciate nature, and you’ll leave feeling more at peace.

Waves in the Pacific Ocean and the fishing pier at sunset in Imperial Beach California.

Of course, you don’t need an excuse to book a trip to a beautiful California beach. But knowing that you’ll actually be doing your body and mind a favor doesn’t hurt.

Find your beach with our California Beaches Map.