There are plenty of hobbies out there, but not all of them can improve your health and save you money at the same time. Foraging for seaweed is a fun way to get a healthy and delicious snack for free! Although seaweed can be purchased in stores, it can be relatively expensive. If you live in Northern California, you can find loads of edible seaweed on the coast. Since it often grows in large forests, harvesting lots of tasty seaweed is very possible!

Great New Flavors

There are many different types of edible seaweed. If you love experimenting with new flavors, seaweed gives you plenty of opportunities to do so. It can be prepared in many ways [link to 3 easy ways to incorporate into diet]. Whether you make salty Nori chips, pickle some Bullwhip Kelp, or construct a seaweed salad, the list of culinary possibilities is one of the main reasons to adopt this hobby.

A Group Experience

There are many things that go into gathering and preparing seaweed. There is something in it for everyone, which makes it a great friend or family activity. Whether you love to prepare food, enjoy spending time outside, or simply like the taste of seaweed, this is an activity that you can happily share with others.

Save Money

For those who try it, seaweed can quickly become a favorite snack. The seaweed crisps that you find in grocery stores continue to grow in popularity. People pay large sums of money to stock their food cabinets with these lightweight and delicious snacks. If you have a liking for seaweed, you can save some money by harvesting it on your own!

Enjoy The Outdoors

Northern California has an extraordinary climate and loads of natural beauty. The coast is one of the best parts! This makes foraging for seaweed a real pleasure. A relaxing stroll on the beach can land you with some delicious and nutritious snacks for later.

A True Superfood

One of the most compelling reasons to get out there and start foraging for seaweed is all of the health benefits [link to surprising health benefits article] that come with it. For starters, taking walks on the coast and wading in the water to harvest seaweed is good exercise and a relaxing activity. Great for your body and a healthy way to aid in weight loss. Then, once you get home and prepare the seaweed for eating, you can enjoy its delicious flavor and many nutritional benefits.

This superfood is packed with myriad vitamins and minerals - including both iodine and tyrosine, which help to support thyroid function. Seaweed’s powerful antioxidants also boost the immune system. Many experts also believe that adding seaweed to a diet can reduce the risk of heart disease.

These are just a few of the many reasons why foraging for seaweed is worth trying. Northern California is home to several different species of seaweed. Before you go, make sure you understand what to look for, what to bring with you, and how to safely prepare seaweed for eating. Check out these Tips for Mindful Seaweed Foraging.

Want to find your own? We have seaweed foraging classes all summer. You're GUARANTEED to go home with seaweed!