Discover the myths and mysteries that are part of mermaid folklore around the world. Here are five places in the US where you can learn to swim like the legendary aquatic creature during National Mermaid Month:
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, Calif
Every Sunday, youngsters staying at this 517-room, California coastal resort can tap into a little Mermaid Magic. During the 90-minute experience, kids can don their mermaid tail, learn swimming skills from a certified mermaid, play water games, and take part in underwater story time. With direct access to the beach as well as an expansive pool area with three water slides, there is plenty to keep the family engaged should mom want to find her way to the Pacific Waters Spa. Contact: https://huntingtonbeach.regency.hyatt.com
Sanderling Resort, Outer Banks, N.C
Venture to the Outer Banks and wonder what it might be like to splash your tail in the Atlantic surf just off shore from this seaside resort. As a student in the resort’s Mermaid School you and your family members can learn a variety of techniques while outfitted in a Fin Fun tail (including how to put it on and take it off). You’ll work on the dolphin kick, breath control, pearl diving and the all-important mermaid pose. Take a break from seafaring school and enjoy spa time, two dune-side pools, golf, tennis, a wild horse tour and yoga. Contact: http//www.sanderling-resort.com/explore-land.php
Monterey Tides, Monterey Bay, Calif
This beachfront boutique hotel will be celebrating the Siren of the Sea throughout the month of September. In the spirit of the seafaring creature, hotel guests can expect mermaid-themed hair brushes, a jar of mermaid tears, the popular mermaid tail blanket, and themed colouring books and crayons for kids as part of the package. A specially created Mermaid beverage welcomes guests upon arrival. Bonfires and s’mores on dry sand may not be mermaid-style but they are among your options while guests of the resort. You may also want to visit the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn about different sea creatures. Contact: www.jdvhotels.com/monterey-tides
Hawaii Mermaid Adventures, Maui, Hawaii
On this island, dreamers of all ages can take the first step toward becoming a lifelong steward of the ocean. And a mermaid. Sign up for this salty adventure and your guides, all of whom are CPR, lifeguard and marine naturalist certified, will demonstrate proper water etiquette (stay 10 feet away from turtles), teach youngsters how to identify native fish and highlight important conservation issues. Young adventurers will also learn about the legends that surround mermaids from their sustainably minded guides. Contact: https://hawaiimermaidadventures.com/ocean-steward/
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, Rancho Mirage, Calif
Aspiring mermaids, ages 6 to 13 with strong swimming skills, are invited to pull on their tail and enjoy a day of swimming through hoops, diving for sea pearls and learning from expert Mermaid Instructors. Once kids tire of the tail, they are reinvigorated by the possibilities at Splashtopia. Two 100-foot waterslides, a 425-foot long lazy river, unique water play zones and a cliff-side Jacuzzi will keep the clan cool for the day. Contact: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/palm-springs-rancho-las-palmas/wellness/pool/splashtopia - TNS
* Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (www.LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com
A young mermaid explores the waters.
