The Pinterest’s 2025 Summer Trend Report shows nature bathing searches have surged 32% among Gen Z. Nature bathing (“shinrin-yoku”) or forest bathing emerged in Japan in the 1980s as a psychological exercise meaning “taking in the forest atmosphere.”
But here’s an interesting fact—several studies in the past revealed that urban blue spaces are more effective than green spaces for mental health and social connection. Water bodies were found to have reduced stress, enhanced emotional well-being, and supported psychological restoration.
Vukan Simic, travel expert and founder at BoatBooker, comments:
“Water destinations for nature bathing are game-changers because they force true disconnection—no signal, no distractions. When you’re floating on a quiet lake, the gentle motion and water sounds naturally calm your nervous system in ways that crowded hiking trails simply can’t. It’s the authentic mental reset this generation desperately needs.”
Vukan shares his top 5 nature bathing destinations you can access by water:
Florida Keys Backcountry, Florida – shallow turquoise flats surrounded by mangroves create natural therapy pools perfect for grounding and sensory immersion
Channel Islands, California – a remote island accessible only by boat, offering secluded beaches and protected coves for uninterrupted nature immersion away from mainland crowds
Boundary Waters, Minnesota – a pristine wilderness of waterways with significantly less development or cell service, providing complete isolation in untouched natural surroundings
Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona – a massive reservoir with hidden slot canyons and secluded beaches accessible only by boat
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – crystal-clear alpine waters with 75-foot visibility surrounded by mountain peaks, offering secluded coves for quiet reflection
Simic concludes:
“The beauty of water-based nature bathing is that it removes choice from the equation. On land, you’re constantly fighting the urge to check your phone or rush to the next viewpoint. But when you’re floating in the middle of a lake with no cell service, digital detox becomes automatic. The gentle motion of water naturally slows your breathing and heart rate—it’s like having a built-in meditation guide. Plus, these destinations are only accessible by boat, which means you’re guaranteed the solitude that makes nature bathing actually work.”
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