Sea, Sky and Sauna: Samphire Sauna’s Coastal Experience in Hastings

Sussex Modern caught up with Samphire Sauna, the coastal sanctuary in Hastings that’s redefining how we connect with nature, community, and wellbeing. Against the backdrop of sea, sky, and shifting horizons, founders Nell and Zoya share how their passion for design, swimming, and self‑care has evolved into one of Sussex’s most invigorating experiences.

What inspired the creation of Samphire Sauna, and how does its coastal setting shape the experience?

We’ve both always been drawn to wellbeing, being outside in nature, and creating environments that nurture and inspire through our backgrounds in garden and event design. We’re also both keen on walking and sea swimming. When Covid hit, all of this suddenly felt more important than ever. Around that time, we’d both separately visited mobile saunas in different parts of the UK and had this lightbulb moment: we’d love to have something like this in our hometown of Hastings! The coastal setting was absolutely crucial for us, as the connection to the sea, sky, and all the elements combined with the sauna experience is what makes it feel so life-affirming.

Can you describe a typical session — what might someone see, feel, and hear from the moment they arrive?

First thing, you’re welcomed by one of our incredible sauna hosts who’ll show you around and make sure you feel looked after. Then you’ll take in the immense, uplifting view of the coast. Once you’re changed into your swimmers, you’ll take your spot in one of our two saunas, staying until you’re ready for a dip in the sea, a cold bucket shower, or our new plunge pool. You might then relax in our hangout area — listen to the sound of the waves, the birds, and the quiet chattering of the guests — before going again. Your host will let you know when there’s 10 minutes left, softening the blow with slices of orange. By the time your session’s over and you’re back out in the world, you’ll feel renewed and reinvigorated.

What makes the sauna experience unique in this part of Sussex?

The feedback we get is that our hosts provide an unparalleled welcome, and whilst our position in the centre of town makes us extremely accessible, once you’re inside the sauna site the rest of the world feels a million miles away — it’s surprisingly private. This stretch of coast is special too. You can watch the moods of the sea and the different weather rolling in, but on a clear day you might catch a glimpse of France’s coastline across the English Channel one way and the Seven Sisters in the other direction. Particularly at this time of year, with the sun setting into the sea horizon, it’s bliss.

What are the benefits of regular sauna use — physically, mentally, or even socially?

Physically, saunas improve circulation, which has huge knock-on effects for heart and brain health. They boost the immune system and aid muscle recovery after exercise. Mentally, they both calm the nervous system and release endorphins, leaving you feeling calmer and happier. Socially, saunas foster connection and a sense of community.

Do you notice a shift in atmosphere or guest experience across different seasons or times of day?

Definitely. Winter is proper ‘sauna season’ from December until February. People tend to be more local and focused on regular self-care. We get more regulars who are really committed and seem to need it more, perhaps because of that craving for endorphins in the darker, colder months and what it does to your body and mind, as well as for connection with fellow sauna-goers. In summer we get more visitors who come as part of a holiday to Hastings or St Leonards, and local guests bring visiting friends. People can sit outside more, so there’s a more relaxed, social vibe.

You’ve worked with other local creatives and wellness practitioners — can you tell us about a collaboration that felt especially connected to the landscape or community?

We were lucky enough to work with the Coastal Currents arts festival this year, which runs from Hastings to Bexhill and is a brilliant celebration of the whole creative community here. We ran a competition for a local artist to paint a mural on our changing rooms and had some incredible entries from really talented artists. The winning artist, Elizabeth Power’s colour-soaked work, stood out because it reflected the calm and tranquillity of the landscape we’re surrounded by, as well as injecting a bit of Hastings’ buzz. It was a wonderful collaboration and felt like a perfect fit, bringing together art, community, and our coastal home.

What’s one thing people are often surprised to discover about the sauna experience?

How elated and invigorated you can feel afterwards. Or the flip side, how relaxed and snoozy you can feel with the prospect of a really good night’s sleep ahead. Another thing is how quickly time evaporates. It takes a little while for our bodies and minds to adjust to the heat, to not being attached to your phone, to sitting in a small space with other half-dressed people. But then you realise this is the best feeling ever and that none of those things matter in those moments. Being around others and away from the digital world is a good thing; just being present and enjoying the space is all that counts. Also, visitors who think they don’t like saunas because of underwhelming ones in gyms or spas are often surprised and converted after a session outdoors in nature with all its added benefits.

For more information on how to immerse yourself in this bliss – and give your endorphins a dose of happiness and calm – visit: samphiresauna.co.uk.

Explore our website to discover more places across Sussex that boost wellbeing and celebrate culture, creativity, and landscape.