It’s summer! yet somedays it feels nothing like it, and others, a little too much like it.

Wherever you are in the world, as sea-lovers we all can’t help but think of the ocean this season. For most outdoor fans, the sea seems to be a favourite during the summer months. And if you live on the island of Ireland: It’s a definite must-see. 

Sea what we did there?

But what if you want the sea but don’t want to go all the way to see one? What do we sea-lovers do when we’re not in the mood for crowded beaches, heavy winds, and sunburn? With the doom scrolling of climate news and the all too real heat waves all around the world. Top of the list of having a great summer has become “how to keep a cool head”, and not just literally. So if you love the sea but can’t quite go outside to see one. Here are the top 5 activities you will definitely love if you love the sea:

1. Aquarium visits

Slow your pace, visit a blue space. 

Studies show that people who spend more time in aquariums could improve their physical and mental well-being. Visiting aquariums can have various mental health benefits, offering a calming and positive experience for many individuals. In other words: “Fish are therapeutic”.

The rhythmic movements of the fish and the soothing sound of water can have a calming effect on the mind and body. In fact, the very act of observing fish can redirect your focus, allowing you to take a mental break from stressors and promoting relaxation. Additionally, The vibrant colors and graceful movements of fish can evoke positive emotions, leading to an uplifted mood. Aquarium visits may trigger feelings of joy, wonder, and fascination. Also, being present and mindful of the aquatic environment can help you stay in the moment and practice mindfulness. This can be beneficial for individuals seeking to reduce racing thoughts and improve concentration.

So if you love the sea, and want that in-depth experience. Visit a nearby aquarium! Take in all the information about your local species, and learn a thing or two about how you can help protect marine life. 

Some of our favourite Irish aquariums include: 

Galway Atlantaquaria, Co. Galway

Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Co. Kerry

Achill Experience Aquarium, Co. Mayo

Sea Life Bray Aquarium, Co. Wicklow

2. Carrageen Lunch

It’s your favourite edible seaweed: Irish sea moss, or in other words: Carrageen!

Another great way to get in that ocean vibe is through a bit of cuisine creativity: have a sea-themed lunch. 

Carrageen is an edible sea veg and natural superfood. Hand-harvested off the West Coast of Ireland. Rí Na Mara Carrageen Irish sea moss is sustainably harvested from the pristine Atlantic waters off the Connemara coast.

In our blog article: Everything you need to know about Irish Sea Moss. We discuss everything from the history of edible seaweed in Ireland, to its nutritional benefits. Some of the key benefits of Carageen Irish sea moss include working as a decongestant to help relieve sore throats, colds and coughs, and it remains an excellent source of protein, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron, iodine and trace elements. We also share a fantastic recipe for Rose water-infused Carrageen moss with Rhubarab. An excellent afternoon treat, solo or with friends, from Clodagh’s Irish kitchen. Clodagh is known for her focus on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, as well as her passion for traditional Irish cuisine. ‘Fresh from the Sea’ is another by Clodagh McKenna. 

3. Watching Blue Planet with the family

Just like the activities listed above, this one you can really share! Since the early 2000s, watching The Blue Planet has been something of a tradition for a lot of families over the world. 

Narrated by David Attenborough, in this BBC documentary examines the natural history of the world’s oceans and unveils the complex dynamics of marine life. 

Definitely one for the sea-lover in you and the loved ones you could share this with. An award-winning documentary, The Blue Planet is so popular it has a sequel: Blue Planet II. Netflix’s Our Planet is another contender with a remarkable episode on coastal seas. Sounds like the perfect indoor weekend to us. 

A recent must see is Irish-made free diving documentary by Laura McGann: ‘The deepest breath‘ on Netflix in collaboration with A24, Motive Films, Ventureland, and RAW. It tells the story of two free divers and their fated journey to cross paths: a champion trying to break world records and a beloved safety diver who helps her train. The film also gives the audience a stunning view inside the world of free diving itself, with extended scenes shot below the surface that are somehow both teeth-grittingly tense and beautifully serene.

4. Dried seaweed soak baths

Perhaps one for the nighttime: a dried seaweed soak bath makes for the perfect self-care experience. Sea lover or not! No one can resist the feeling of sitting in a tub, literally surrounded by nature. Also known as Thalassotherapy, this is a form of marine therapy that utilizes the healing properties of seawater and seaweed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

Rí Na Mara wild organic fucus serratus seaweed is hand harvested and air dried off the West Coast of Ireland. The mineral, nutrient, and vitamin-rich, therapeutic oils help the body relax, unwind, detox, and remineralize. The antioxidant compounds produce anti-aging, conditioning, and moisturizing effects on the skin, hair, and face. 

Seaweed Baths have been used for generations for health and healing of the skin and body. So, indulge in a Rí Na Mara at-home spa experience. Set aside some time for yourself to relax in a detox seaweed bath and just feel the tension disappear. All Rí Na Mara products incorporate the purest natural ingredients from marine or plant origin and are suitable for sensitive and all skin types.

5. Shopping Nautical

Last but not least: shop nautical! 

Perhaps the activity with the most fun, shopping as a sea-lover is as quirky as it gets. If you love the ocean and you can’t find the time to visit or want a little reminder of your favourite coastal areas. Go to your favourite sea shop online or IRL and buy anything that reminds you of the ocean.

You can:

Purchase a seascape painting

Create a warm memory by framing a family photograph from your seaside holiday

Help your children make arts & crafts with seashells collected from the beach

You could also find sea memorabilia to add to your garden or home – anchor, buoys, ship lanterns, maps.

Galway and most coastal cities is filled with many shops like these. Everywhere you go on an open-market Saturday, you’re reminded of the sea. Our personal favourite: The Old Sea Dog has an eclectic gallery of sea bits and bobs. “It’s an odd place that you might find a Lobster”.

Rí Na Mara as a family business is made up of sea-lovers through and through. Our beauty products harness the power of the sea and its life-enhancing benefits.

So, are you a sea-lover, are you married to one? What’s sea-loving activity are you going to get up to this summer? Comment below and let us know.