Planning your next vacation can be a tough decision especially when time is limited. Interestingly, there are some studies about that which might help you out in this way. In one study by the University of Virginia, it was shown that being an extrovert or an introvert does have an association with the geographical location of their choice of destination as well. Based on a total of 613,000 personality surveys, the reports suggest that extroverts are the beach people who are more prone to the hip and happening beach life. On the other hand, introverts are the mountain people prefer the peace and quiet of mountains and natural surroundings where they can just be themselves. As we all know, studies can be disproven, and that’s why we list today some pros and cons for Mountains Vs Beach to help you decide.

Beach

Water, waves, heat, and a fresh cocktail – in short just relax

Most people go to beaches to chill out. This is perfect to disconnect and let the day pass by. It is warm, and all you really need to do all day is drink water or any other liquid you intend to have. Every few hours, you can get up and jump in the water to fresh up. Sounds great right?

Fun, Fun, Fun!

Most touristy beaches are well-developed areas where your hotel can easily turn into a surf school, tour boat company, or jet-ski rental. Depending on the location you choose for your travels, beaches are often considered the more crowded area where many people go to simply have fun. Which often results in a big crowd of people and a lot of different activities that are offered.

Don’t lose your comfort

Depending on the location and country you will go to, comfort is on a high standard in most beach areas. If you seek out smaller less-known beaches you might still be able to have your tent pitched back to the roots style, but chances are that hotels will have taken over the beach and your comfort is assured at all times.

All that glitters is not gold

The two pros listed above can easily turn into a nightmare for some type of people. Big crowds can be annoying and hotel after hotel on a long beach might not be the most eye-pleasing experience for some of us. Moreover, if you are a more active person and you like to hike, walk, or do outdoorsy stuff, beaches have a certain limitation to it. Once you are limited by the waterfront, so simply wandering around is restrained to half the distance. Mountains are then your next choice to consider.

Mountains

Feel the freedom

In the mountains, only the sky is the limit. With the right map, gear, and attitude almost everything can be dealt with in the mountains. It can be easy to get away from anyone around you. Solitude is often sought out by nature-loving mountain-goers. The places you will find are often secluded and comfort might be traded for other things.

Get in touch with nature

As you find solitude in the walk through the woods, you will feel certain connectivity with nature. If you are lucky enough you can watch wildlife (from a safe distance of course). Find a mindful experience in nature with ourselves or others is truly relaxing for some of us. In these moments, it doesn’t matter taking a selfie isn’t necessary, believe me, you will remember it even without a digital souvenir.

Take a deep breath

Being in a high altitude, if done correctly, can be extremely beneficial for your health. Studies have shown that being in a higher altitude for only 2 weeks can change your red blood cell levels for months after. Already after a few days, the body can adapt to higher altitudes leaving us with newly formed red blood cells that can bind to oxygen and enhance the overall function of our body. Additionally, studies have found a significantly lower mortality rate form cardiovascular disease for residents living in higher altitudes.

The trade-offs

If you can trade your comfort for these experiences and you are willing to have a more quiet vacation with less chance of a big night out in a discotheque then mountains are your thing. Fewer people means fewer things to do on a social aspect. You can meet many people on the beach hanging out in the hostels or campfire on the sand. Most mountain places are not the typical night out and get crazy locations.

After all, it’s up to you to decide, but whatever you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy yourself. Don’t think too much about the could haves, should haves and would haves.

This was our article about

Mountains Vs Beach

Read The Backpacking Off-The-Grid Camping Guide.

Follow us on Instagram.