The Rise of Mermaiding: An Immersive Escape in 2026

As global tensions continue to rise, a unique trend is gaining momentum worldwide: mermaiding. This immersive activity, involving swimming in a mermaid tail, offers an escape from everyday life and a connection to fantasy, becoming one of 2026’s fastest-growing travel trends, according to Booking.com.

What is Mermaiding?

Mermaiding involves swimming in natural water bodies and pools even as wearing a mermaid tail. It’s a practice that blends physical activity with imaginative play, appealing to a diverse range of individuals seeking a unique and liberating experience. Blogger James Barrett describes it as “pretending that you live in the ocean and all your problems aren’t around.”

Catalina Island: A Mermaiding Hotspot

Catalina Island, California, has emerged as a prominent destination for mermaiding enthusiasts. Catalina Island Mermaids, a professional mermaid training center located in Avalon, offers a variety of experiences, including mermaid transformations, photoshoots, and PADI Mermaid classes and instructor courses. Reservations are highly recommended.

Mermaid Experiences Available on Catalina Island

• Meet a Mermaid: A special experience for children, offering a photo opportunity, a toy, and a one-on-one interaction with a Catalina Island Mermaid.
• Mermaid Transformation: Available for all ages and sizes, this experience includes a mermaid tail, shell bra, accessories, and makeup application, culminating in a photoshoot.
• Mermaid Pearl Discovery: Participants can open an Akoya oyster to uncover a genuine pearl and choose a keepsake charm.
• PADI Mermaid Classes: Catalina Island Mermaids is one of 25 locations in the United States where individuals can become a PADI Mermaid Instructor.

Beyond Catalina: A Global Phenomenon

While Catalina Island is a key location, mermaiding is flourishing globally. From fantasy photoshoots in the Maldives to “kelp forest strolls” along the coasts of California and Taiwan, the experience varies depending on the location. Mermaid Academy Japan offers classes, emphasizing technique and grace, as noted in a recent report by the BBC.

The Appeal of Mermaiding

The growing popularity of mermaiding is linked to the broader trend of “romantasy” travel – immersive holidays inspired by fantasy literature. The activity is also seen as body-positive and inclusive, fostering a supportive subculture. Founder Elaina Garcia of Catalina Mermaid Photo Shoot, notes that “putting on a tail makes you feel sexy, empowered, cute and powerful,” as reported by Catalina Tours.

Looking Ahead

As mermaiding continues to gain traction, expect to see more opportunities for training, experiences, and community building. The trend offers a unique blend of escapism, physical activity, and self-expression, appealing to those seeking a break from the ordinary and a connection to the magic of the underwater world.