People at their happiest when by the sea

Visiting beaches, rocky shores and coastlines boosts people’s happiness and wellbeing, research shows.

Coasts have a therapeutic effect on people, boosting wellbeing and mental health, the evidence statement drawing on 46 peer-reviewed papers and published by the Environment Department (Defra) said.

People also report feeling more restored when they spend time in areas around the coasts, compared to urban parks and green spaces, and find the seascape as beneficial as woods and mountains.

And people are happiest when spending time by the

“Those who live by the sea have better mental health”

sea, compared to other natural environments, the study said.

The review also highlights the importance of protecting marine areas, as people feel more restored and happier when there are more signs of wildlife, natural conditions and less litter on the beaches and shores.

It warns the environment around the coasts is affected by water and air pollution and the impacts of climate change such as rising seas, flooding and extreme weather, as well as inappropriate development.

People use more energy while they are visiting the seaside, because they spend longer there than on trips to the countryside and urban green spaces.

And those who live by the sea have better mental health than those who are further inland and do more physical activity in what is known as the “blue gym effect”, the analysis said.