How To Digital Detox at Great Blue Resorts

August 4, 2025 Back to blog

In a world of constant pings, notifications, and screen time, there’s something revolutionary about pressing pause. At Great Blue Resorts, we believe your vacation should be a true escape, one where you can trade texts for trees, emails for evening campfires, and swiping for star-gazing. Here’s how to embrace a digital detox during your stay with us.

Leave Your Phone Behind (Or at Least Turn It Off)

Start by setting the tone: power down your devices when you arrive. If you need your phone for emergencies or navigation, switch it to airplane mode or use a “Do Not Disturb” setting to avoid distractions. Avoid social media, try to stay focused on the bubble you can create within the resort. Let loved ones or work know you’re off-grid for a while, they’ll understand (and probably be jealous). Consider keeping your phone tucked away in a drawer, your bag, or wherever feels safest at the cottage. It’s amazing how freeing it feels to break the habit of constantly checking your screen.

Reconnect with Nature, Not Wi-Fi

Whether you’re lakeside, surrounded by nature, or cozied up near a fire pit, nature is calling, and it doesn’t require a signal. Wake up with the sun and sip your coffee on the deck. Watch for birds, listen for loons, or catch a glimpse of deer in the early morning light. Instead of checking your social feed, let the rhythm of nature slow you down. You’ll be surprised how quickly your mind clears when you’re surrounded by trees instead of tabs.

bonnie nature

Go for a Walk, Paddle, or Pedal

Our persistent use of devices makes us want constant entertainment or feedback for everything, instead of sitting on your phone, consider finding an engaging resort activity! Movement is a natural stress-reliever, and without a device in hand, you’ll be more in tune with your surroundings. Explore the nearby trails, walk barefoot on the beach, or hop on a paddleboard. Many Great Blue Resorts offer access to canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and more, so take advantage. Even a slow stroll around the resort in the evening can become a mindful ritual. Look around. Breathe deeply. Let your feelings guide you.

cherry beach

Journal Your Experience

Without digital distractions, your mind has more space to think, dream, and reflect. Bring along a journal and jot down your thoughts each day. Write about what you see, hear, and feel. Sketch the view from your porch. Start a gratitude list.

Journaling while on a digital detox helps you be more present and creates a beautiful keepsake of your getaway. If you’re someone who is unsure about leaving your phone behind simply because your truly do love to capture moments visually, consider getting a cheap camera, or bring one you already have along. Photos can be precious keepsakes, but you don’t need your phone to take them.

kids with tractor

Play, Laugh, and Get Back to Basics

Great Blue Resorts are perfect for old-fashioned fun. Play board games with family, cook a big meal together, or tell stories around the campfire. Let the kids climb, explore, and invent their own adventures. You’ll rediscover the joy in small things like skipping rocks, roasting marshmallows, or watching the sunset without trying to capture it on camera.

lantern basketball

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