When it comes to planning the ideal vacation, many people focus on checking off famous sites, hitting up popular restaurants and covering as much ground as possible. But what if the secret to a truly fulfilling trip isn’t about how much you do but rather, your proximity to water?
Enter blue mind theory, a concept with the potential to reshape how travelers choose to spend their time away.
So what exactly is blue mind theory, and how might it guide your next vacation? HuffPost asked a few travel experts to break down the benefits, downsides and tips for taking this approach to travel.
What is blue mind theory?
“Blue mind theory is the idea that being near water ― whether it’s the ocean, a lake or a winding river ― has a calming effect on the brain,” Leigh Barnes, President of Americas at Intrepid Travel, told HuffPost. “And honestly, it just makes sense. There’s something about water that settles the nerves and clears the mental clutter. When the world gets a bit loud, being by water can feel like a giant exhale.”
So that sense of peace you experience by the ocean doesn’t just come from sipping your favorite beach resort pina colada (though it can help).
“As someone who’s spent a lot of time by the water, I fully believe in blue mind theory,” said travel blogger Esther Susag. “It’s why we feel instantly relaxed by the ocean or recharged after a swim in a lake. It’s less about sightseeing and more about re-centering.”
Research has actually backed up the idea that proximity to water can reduce stress, lower heart rate and boost feelings of wellbeing. And you don’t even have to touch or get in the water to get these benefits.
“It’s not just pretty to look at, it genuinely shifts your mood,” Susag noted. “That’s why I always try to sneak in some beach time or even just a walk along a river when I travel.”
Klaus Vedfelt via Getty Images
Smiling young woman day dreaming while leaning on a convertible car during a road trip.
What are the benefits of a water-focused getaway?
Going on vacation near water doesn’t just give you memories, it also helps you mentally reset.
“There’s plenty to love,” Barnes said. “Water naturally draws you in and helps you switch off ― no apps, no noise, just the rhythm of waves or the stillness of a mountain lake. For travelers feeling the weight of the modern world, this kind of experience can be incredibly healing.”
He noted that there’s been an uptick in interest for water-based adventures at Intrepid ― from kayaking trips to snorkeling to coastal hikes.
“It’s not just fun ― it’s wellness,” Barnes added.
Susag believes one of the biggest perks is how restorative a blue mind trip can feel, especially for anyone coming off a busy work stretch or grappling with burnout.
“The benefit is how restorative it feels, especially if you’ve been in hustle mode,” she said.
Are there any downsides?
If you’re the kind of traveler who thrives on a jam-packed itinerary, blue mind travel might take some mental recalibration.
“The only real ‘con’ is that it can be tricky if you’re trying to squeeze in lots of plans,” Susag said. “You have to be OK with doing less and letting the experience be about calm over busy.”
But for many, that’s kind of the point.
What’s the best way to take a blue mind theory approach to your next trip?
So how do you tap into the restorative power of water on your next trip?
“Look for places where water is at the heart of the experience, and think about how you want to interact with it ― responsibly, of course,” Barnes advised. “Whether it’s kayaking a fjord, swimming in a hidden bay or just watching the sunrise over the sea, the key is to slow down and let water work its magic.”
He added that joining a small group tour with a local guide can take the stress out of planning and logistics, allowing you to focus on the moment.
“For a blue mind-inspired trip, look for destinations where water is part of the everyday rhythm, like small coastal towns or lake getaways,” Susag recommended. “And once you’re there, make time to just sit and be. Watch the waves, go for a paddle or take a sunset swim. It’s less about doing and more about feeling.”
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