You’ve heard of “She sells sea shells on the seashore,” but these days, it’s more like “I see a sauna on the seafront!” The UK is experiencing a surge in the popularity of coastal saunas, and it’s easy to see why. Combining the invigorating heat of a sauna with the bracing cold plunge of the sea creates a unique wellness experience that’s capturing the hearts (and bodies) of many.
The Rise of the Coastal Sauna
These aren’t your average spa saunas. We’re talking about “wild” or coastal saunas, strategically placed to offer breathtaking views of the sea. They’re popping up on beaches all around the UK, from the rugged coastlines of Devon and Cornwall to the scenic shores of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
What’s driving this trend? It’s a combination of factors:
- The Wellness Factor: People are increasingly seeking natural ways to improve their mental and physical health. The heat of the sauna promotes relaxation, muscle recovery, and detoxification, while the cold water dip provides a shock to the system that’s believed to boost circulation and mood.
- Community Connection: Coastal saunas often foster a sense of community. They provide a space for people to gather, socialise, and share a unique experience.
- The Appeal of Nature: There’s something incredibly appealing about sweating out your stresses while gazing at the vast expanse of the ocean. It’s a way to connect with nature and feel truly alive.
A Growing Movement
This isn’t just a fleeting fad. The numbers speak for themselves. The British Sauna Society has reported a significant increase in public sauna sites, jumping from 45 in 2023 to a projected 147 in 2025. This indicates a strong and sustained interest in sauna culture in the UK.
The coastal sauna movement is often driven by local entrepreneurs and passionate volunteers. It’s a grassroots phenomenon, with communities coming together to create these unique wellness spaces. You’ll find everything from simple, rustic setups to more elaborate facilities offering additional amenities.
Experiences and Prices
A typical communal sauna session on the seafront will set you back around £15, offering an affordable way to experience this coastal wellness trend. Many locations also offer private bookings for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Beyond the basic sauna and dip, some locations are incorporating additional elements to enhance the experience:
- Full Moon Sessions: Harnessing the energy of the full moon for a unique and spiritual sauna experience.
- Wellness Rituals: Incorporating elements like aromatherapy, guided meditation, or breath work into the sauna session.
The Future of Coastal Wellness
The popularity of seafront saunas shows no signs of slowing down. As people continue to prioritise their wellbeing and seek out authentic experiences, these coastal havens are likely to become even more prevalent.
Perhaps it’s time to trade in your traditional spa day for a trip to the coast, where you can soak up the heat, embrace the cold, and connect with the invigorating power of the sea.
What do you think – would you give a coastal sauna a try?
This trend highlights the growing desire for experiences that connect us with nature and enhance our wellbeing. At Outerspace, we can help you create your own unique and sustainable structures. If you’re interested in building a sauna or exploring other eco-building projects, get in touch to learn more.
