I recently came across this quote, and Danish author Isak Dinesen nailed it: “The cure for anything is salt water — sweat, tears or the sea.” While I have taken plenty of trips to the mountains and enjoyed each of them, I remain a water person through and through.
Growing up in Michigan, my summers were spent in a swimsuit, whether in our backyard above-ground pool, on a small lake where one set of grandparents lived or at the beaches of Lake Michigan, where my other grandparents were less than a mile away. I still contend that Lake Michigan has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
From Lake Michigan To The World’s Most Beautiful Reefs
I discovered my love of snorkeling while on a family cruise to the Caribbean. I floated atop the water, my ears submerged, in the silence of exploring wonderful coral reefs, colorful fish and unique sea creatures. Seeing a barracuda perched underneath the boat’s ladder was quite a thrill. Even after earning my scuba certification years later, I still prefer the carefree snorkel experience of skimming across the surface of the ocean.
My favorite saltwater adventures have included:
Spying octopus and stingrays under our bungalow at Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa in Tahiti, waving to my sister through the glass floor and learning to kayak in the bay
Swimming with sea turtles at the lagoon at Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island in Hawaii
Using rafts while shore snorkeling at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort and exploring Hanauma Bay on Oahu where protecting the coral reefs is a priority.
Snorkeling in a wetsuit while in the middle of the ocean at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, off of Port Douglas
Avoiding sharks while snorkeling off a boat near Key West, Florida
Admiring fully formed brain coral and gigantic flounder while shore snorkeling near the cruise port and beach bar in Grand Cayman
Why Every Body Belongs In The Water
As an adult, I find it surprising how many people love the beach but are not comfortable in the water or dread wearing a swimsuit. Here is my two-part public service announcement: First, ensure that you and your whole family have taken some form of water safety swim class. Second, “EVERY body is a beach body.” I captured this quote from a Lands’ End catalog, and it is so true. They have a wondrous array of styles with petite, tall and plus sizes. Just get out there and enjoy the sun and fun of being in the water, like a kid without a care!
Finding The Perfect Balance In Cabo San Lucas
Shortly after joining HGV, I found the ultimate relaxation and “best of both worlds” mountain and ocean solution in Cabo San Lucas, at the edge of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. The Fiesta American Villas Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf and Spa Resort is perched on the side of a Sonoran Desert mountain facing the gorgeous Sea of Cortez. The weather is perfect, with a mix of dry desert air and cool sea breezes. I have returned to this resort numerous times, including last month.
How I Practice Active Relaxation At An HGV Resort
I am more of an “active relaxer,” so my checked bag is packed for adventure. Here’s how I take full advantage of the on-site and off-site activities:
Bring my own gear to do spontaneous snorkeling off the beach at high tide
Meet new people at water aerobics classes in the pool
Use the rower at the gym while searching for whales
Ride ATVs in the desert and near the beach with awesome views
View whales on high-speed boats that get within yards of them
Cruise the Sea of Cortez on a pontoon boat to view El Arco and visiting a bay for snorkeling from the boat
Explore the nearest cities of Cabo San Lucas and historic San Jose del Cabo for shopping and lunch
Wildlife Encounters That Make Ocean Vacations Unforgettable
While lounging on the beach this year, I saw hundreds of yellow butterflies migrating along the shore. Beside the beach, there are pools with infinity edges that overlook the ocean. In the winter months, I see whales making their way across the horizon. Usually, multiple spouts and tail flips are clearly visible as they break the surface. Occasionally, I will see a whale jumping out of the water.
Ending The Day With Spa Time And Ocean Views
For maximum relaxation, there is the SOMMA Wine Spa, offering a wonderful massage, sauna, steam room and hot/cold plunge pools. My cousin and I enjoyed a full afternoon taking advantage of all the offerings and chilling in the relaxation room. The cold plunge pool experience taught me that I should never do a full polar bear plunge. Great lesson learned!
My favorite evening experience was at the Peninsula savoring Thai food on the veranda. We could see the water in the moonlight, hear the waves, and listen to wonderful live music from the fire pit. It was a perfect way to end a day in the sun.
Where is your next relaxation vacation — mountains or ocean?
Key Takeaways
Water Travel Shapes Identity: A lifelong connection to lakes and oceans can define how travelers relax and explore the world.
Snorkeling Offers Accessible Adventure: Floating on the surface delivers wildlife encounters without the intensity of scuba diving.
Active Relaxation Enhances Vacations: Mixing movement, water activities and spa time creates deeper restoration.
Resorts Amplify Natural Beauty: Locations that blend ocean views, wildlife and amenities elevate the overall travel experience.
FAQs
Q: Why does the author prefer ocean vacations over mountain trips?
A: The ocean provides movement, wildlife encounters and a sense of calm that aligns with a lifelong love of being in the water.
Q: Is snorkeling suitable for travelers who are not certified divers?
A: Yes, snorkeling allows travelers to experience marine life without advanced training while still feeling adventurous.
Q: What makes an HGV resort ideal for active relaxation?
A: Access to water activities, fitness options and spa experiences allows Guests to balance adventure and rest.
