How holiday homes by the sea can improve your wellbeing

There’s something about the sea that speaks to us on a deeper level. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the waves, the salty air, or the way the light plays over the water – whatever it is, the coast has a way of quieting the noise and bringing us back to ourselves.

At Woodland Park – a woodland retreat just a stone's throw away from the North Norfolk coast – we see every day how time by the sea can restore and recharge. Our owners come here to step out of the rush and into something more meaningful – a home-from-home, surrounded by nature, where coastal living becomes part of daily life.

Whether you’re walking the coastal path, sitting quietly in the dunes, or sharing fish and chips with family as the sun dips down, these moments aren’t just relaxing – they’re good for your wellbeing.

In this article we're going to look at what makes being close to the sea so good for us, and how you can enjoy the benefits of the coast, no matter where you live.

Your next coastal holiday could do you the world of good

But what is it about sandy beaches and sea views that are just so revitalising?

The benefits of 'blue space' – the sea and coastline – might not be as well publicised as soul-soothing green spaces, but make no mistake, being close to the sea is fantastic for mental and physical wellbeing. Far from being all in our imagination, it's actually a fact that spending time at the beach is good for you.

The University of Exeter presented research to the UK government that discusses the benefits of coastal living. It states that "the coast is linked to health, through reduced exposure to environmental stressors such as air and noise pollution, facilitating more physical exercise and providing a restorative sense of relaxation, which can reduce anxiety and fatigue".

Here’s how the sea supports your wellbeing – naturally:

• Let the sounds of the waves soothe you. The sound the sea makes has a similar effect on the body as soothing music – it relaxes the body, slowing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure.

• Get a great night's sleep. If you ever find yourself enjoying a deep, longer sleep after spending time at the beach, you're not alone. In fact, a 2015 study found that a bracing seaside walk has a hugely positive effect on sleep.

• Feel happier at the sea. Our mental wellbeing is much improved by being in natural environments, including the seaside. Whether you are enjoying a fun family holiday or simply walking the dog, it's scientifically proven that being by the sea improves our mood.

• Let's get physical. No matter whether we are in warmer climes or simply somewhere closer to home, beach locations have the power to get us exploring, encouraging physical activity in and around the sea. Whether it's a long walk along the sand, going for a swim or even getting involved with some more adventurous watersports, the whole family is keen to get moving when they are at the coast.

These aren’t just nice-to-haves – they’re essential ways of feeling grounded again.

Fancy a getaway by the coast?

If you've been seduced by the rejuvenating properties of the coast and you're planning a UK break by the sea, there are a multitude of options out there in terms of both destinations and properties. Let's take a look at some popular options:

Coastal cottages

Coastal holiday cottages can be a great solution for anyone looking to escape to the seaside. From cosy and rustic to rambling and homely, cottages by the sea can be the perfect solution if you want glorious sea views but with easy access to the beach.

Offering traditional charm, holiday cottages mean you can make your break your own, spending time in the scenery and atmosphere that you're there to enjoy. Secluded beach cottages bring true meaning to the word 'escape' and can be ideal for those wanting to bring romance to their break!

Self catering beach houses

Similar to cottages by the sea, beach houses offer a more modern seaside break, often accommodating large groups while still ensuring beautiful views and plenty of room for canine companions.

With an abundance of space and privacy and no hotel schedules to adhere to, self catering beach houses are extremely popular with both families and groups of friends.

Luxury beach houses

If you want to treat yourselves to something truly special, luxury beach houses designed to relax and pamper guests are the perfect solution.

Often with direct beach access, these incredible properties often boast features such as hot tubs, swimming pools, saunas and landscaped gardens.

Holiday lodges

Combining cosiness with bright, airy interiors, holiday lodges and park homes can provide the perfect place to enjoy coastal destinations.

At Woodland Park, our holiday lodges offer the ideal base for those who love the coast, but want a calm, woodland setting to return to. These are not short-term lets – they’re privately owned holiday homes, part of a warm, welcoming community of like-minded residents who return year-round.

Our exciting selection of properties are only available to buy, meaning you have unlimited access to the beautiful North Norfolk coast and countryside.

Where to go for a seaside holiday?

Whether you fancy the surfing associated with Cornwall, the cream teas of south Devon or fossil hunting on the Jurassic coast, here in the UK we are spoilt for choice for fantastic seaside destinations.

We believe that the North Norfolk coast beats them all! From historic seaside towns, to unspoilt, wide sandy beaches, our big skies and stunning landscapes will draw you in and you'll want to keep coming back time and again.

For families, enjoy classic seaside entertainment and crabbing off Cromer Pier. Nature lovers will delight in seal-spotting and witnessing the varied wildlife in the area, while hikers will enjoy the walking trails and dog friendly beaches within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Love coastal breaks? Make them your own

When the coast is always within reach, it becomes more than just a getaway – it becomes part of the rhythm of life. Forget risky rentals, where quality is an unknown until you get there (by which time it's too late!), make sure your getaway is stress-free and guaranteed to relax you.

Owning a holiday home at Woodland Park means you can enjoy exclusive use of your lodge whenever you like. With golden sands in easy reach as well as the rest of North Norfolk, you'll be spoilt for choice every day.

And, thanks to fantastic on-site facilities such as our leisure club and restaurant, your break can be restful, luxurious and revitalising, just as holidays should be.

Find your perfect holiday home to own today.