A Home for Every Life Series: Six Benefits of Coastal Living

With more than 77,000 searches for beachfront homes on the Property Finder platform in 2024 year alone, we asked what it is about coastal living that makes it so enticing.

Living by the beach is a timeless aspiration, but beyond the Instagram-worthy aesthetics, research highlights that coastal living actually brings with it a whole host of health and well-being benefits.  Read on to find out what they are.

1. Improved Mental Wellbeing  

It’s often said that living by the sea can be a tonic for your mental well-being and there’s a real science behind it. According to a study by the University of Exeter, living by the sea can lift your mood and even reduce anxiety and depression. The study explains how simply listening to the sound of water can have a soothing effect on your well-being, for example.

People lucky enough to live beside the beach agree. “There’s just something about the sea that makes everything feel lighter. I simply don’t worry as much as I used to when living in the hustle and bustle of the city.  I can relax and unwind with a good book and soak up the sun after a long day at work. It is definitely good for the soul,” says Stephanie, a 28-year-old Jumeirah Beach Resident, when asked what she likes about coastal living.

2. It’s  A Great Motivator

The beach is also a surprising motivator for exercise. Whether it’s a quick swim before work, a stroll at sunset after work, or trying out different water sports, getting more movement in your day can simply become part of your daily routine when you live close to a beach.

A 2020 study suggests that coastal living naturally inspires a more active lifestyle. Regular activity in these settings isn’t just fun; it’s great for cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall fitness. When your “gym” is the open beach, research shows you’re more likely to stick with your fitness routine than in a traditional urban environment.

3. Increased Social Interaction

Here’s a fun fact for social butterflies or anyone wanting to expand their social life. This 2021 study shows that beachside living can strengthen community ties and improve emotional well-being.

This is because seaside communities are perfectly set up for people to meet and connect. From beach picnics to water sports, beach volleyball, and lively festivals, there are simply so many opportunities to meet new people on the beach. 

Also, unlike other bustling areas around the city, waterfront communities tend to encourage people to slow down and take in the beauty of the moment. That makes it that much easier to meet other like-minded people who are attracted to this laid-back lifestyle and want to savour life’s slow and simple moments. 

In short, waterfront communities create the perfect environment for building strong support networks, helping residents stay connected and keep loneliness at bay.

Meanwhile, if you’re a parent, you might be interested to know that research shows that outdoor play is great for children’s social and cognitive development. And since the beach is a wonderful natural outdoor playground, you have just one more reason to move close to a beach.  

Here, your kids get to build sand castles, splash in the waves, and play with other children—all of which promote their social and cognitive skills while having a blast.

4. Greater Sense of Awe and Connection 

If you’ve ever walked along the beach and been struck by a sense of wonder and awe, you’re not alone. This phenomenon has actually been observed in this 2022 study and was shown to help us feel connected to something larger than ourselves. 

This effect has been shown to spark humility, gratitude and overall satisfaction with life. 

As one beach lover said, “I used to go to the beach almost every day after school just to watch the sunset. It’s the perfect escape from life’s stresses, and it never gets old.” 

Another shared, “I’ve lived by the beach for 15 years, and though I can’t swim every day, even catching a glimpse of the sea through buildings on my way to work feels like a shot of dopamine.”

5. Enhanced Cognitive Function and Creativity

While we tend to associate the sea side with calming our mind, it can also spark it. Research shows that natural water environments, or “blue spaces,” can boost creativity and problem-solving skills. 

You may have even experienced this yourself if you’ve ever tried brainstorming a new project or just looking for inspiration by the sea.  

There’s something about the calming rhythm of the waves and the open horizon that can break mental blocks and bring fresh clarity, making it easier to think outside the box. 

6. Increased Family Bonding

Living close to the beach gives families endless opportunities for quality time together. With easy access to activities like swimming, beach games, and picnics, it’s a natural setting for creating special memories and strengthening family bonds. 

Not just that, spending time outdoors together has been shown in this qualitative study to deepen emotional connections and support healthier family dynamics. 

As Adam, a Palm Jumeirah resident, shared, “I was never a beach person until I moved here. Now, I love the constant breeze. I’ll set up some shade, grab a cool drink, and just relax with my wife or watch the kids play. It’s the perfect way to unwind together.” It’s evident that living by the beach is more than just a beautiful view—it’s a lifestyle full of health, happiness, and connection. From stress relief to family bonding, coastal life offers countless benefits that go well beyond the water’s edge. 

If you’re ready to make the beach your backyard and experience these perks for yourself, explore our selection of beachfront properties on Property Finder and find your own slice of paradise by the sea. 

Top Off-Plan Beachfront Projects in Dubai

Embrace beachfront living with these off-plan properties in Dubai. Each offers stunning views, high-end amenities, and flexible layouts to suit your lifestyle– whether you’re looking for a cosy 1-bed or a spacious 6-bed villa. Dive into the details below and start planning your move today.

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