29 Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Beach Home

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDSEN | Published on April 20, 2016 | Updated on Febrary 09, 2025| 

Coastal Decorating Ideas: Are you dreaming of a home that perfectly captures the beauty and serenity of coastal living? A modern coastal look may be just what you need! With its clean lines, fresh colors, and natural textures, this design style is perfect for creating a calming and inviting atmosphere in your home.

But how do you achieve this look without going overboard with nautical themes? This ultimate guide will explore the key elements of modern coastal design, including color palettes, furniture choices, and decorative accents.

I’ll also share tips on infusing your style into the space while maintaining the coastal vibe. I designed a coastal-inspired primary bedroom in my home, and I find the bright and airy hues, in combination with natural textures, make me feel like I’m on a beach vacation year-round. Feature image courtesy of K & Co. Living.

Neutral Coastal Beach Home
Image courtesy of McDonald Jones Home

Understanding the Modern Coastal Style

Before we dive into the specifics of modern coastal design, it’s essential to understand the overall aesthetic. The contemporary coastal style is about simplicity, texture, and natural elements.

The color palette often includes whitewashed accents with a mix of blues, greens, and neutral tones by the ocean and sandy beaches. When it comes to furniture and decor, modern coastal design emphasizes clean lines and minimalism. Think open spaces, streamlined furnishings, and uncluttered surfaces. Natural materials like wood, rattan, and linen are added for texture and warmth.

Coastal style evokes memories of sandy beaches and warm sunny days with its laid-back vibe and gentle colors. It’s a haven from the hectic pace of day-to-day life and gently whispers ‘Summer’ all year around. The overall feel of coastal style design is relaxed, comfortable, and inviting, making it an excellent design choice for those who want to bring the captivating beauty of the beach into their home.

Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Blanc Marine

It’s easy to find inspiration in the natural beauty of the coast. Nothing says “coastal living” quite like an open living room, oversized sofas, nautical stripes, and textural elements. From raffia to rattan, natural materials offer the beautiful tones, shapes, and textures found in nature while bringing an approachability.

Refine your furniture’s color palette to warm earth tones and light finishes to bring in some sun-drenched sophistication. Set the tone for a naturally inspired space by layering different textures like distressed wood and natural fiber rugs.

Modern Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Pineapple House Interiors

Key Elements of Coastal Interiors

Selecting the right color palette is one of the most important aspects of achieving a modern coastal look. You want to create a fresh, airy, and beachy space without being overly nautical. Start with a base of neutral colors, such as white, gray, or beige, to create a clean and modern foundation. Then, layer in shades of blue, green, and sandy beige to add depth and dimension.

If you’re hesitant about using too much color, try incorporating it in small ways, such as with throw pillows, art, or decorative accents. This way, you can add color without overwhelming the space. Remember to incorporate natural light and airy fabrics like cotton or linen to complete the coastal vibe.

Here are a few design tips to create a coastal-inspired home:

Coastal Living Room with Sandy Hues
Image courtesy of Jennifer Wundrow Interiors

1. Choose a Coastal Color Scheme

Although a coastal color scheme typically incorporates shades of blue, green, and sandy beige to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere, shades of grays and browns also work. Regardless of your preference, choosing soothing tones is best to create a relaxing home that instantly makes you feel like you are on vacation at the beach.

Use these coastal colors in various ways, such as painting walls, choosing furniture and decor, and even in textiles like curtains and throw pillows. The overall effect is tranquility and natural beauty, perfect for a beach house or any space where you want to evoke a sense of calm and relaxation.

2.  Be Sure to Include Plenty of Organic Textures 

Natural materials feature inherent highs and lows for eye-catching depth, not to mention standout texture. Natural fibers such as wicker baskets and a jute or sisal rug instantly add natural texture to the space. The perfect mix of materials includes wicker, natural woven shades, bamboo, and seagrass.

Add Strong Textural Elements for Warmth and Depth in the Design
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily 

Think about incorporating: Rattan (strong, lightweight, pliable, and sustainable. Rattan shines in the art of furniture making), Raffia (finely woven, the fiber from raffia palm brings unexpected texture), Grasscloth (dyed or in its natural state, grasscloth adds unparalleled texture to your walls), Abaca (durable abaca is fashioned into striking rugs, seats, and pendants), Seagrass (an aquatic plant that brings a decidedly beachy vibe. Lovely in basketry) and Jute (incredibly versatile, it’s a go-to-for flooring with a laid-back feel).

Coastal Dining Room
Image courtesy of Becca Interiors

3. Choose Furniture that is Oversized, Casual & Comfortable 

When it comes to furniture and decor, modern coastal design is all about simplicity and minimalism. The goal is to create an uncluttered, airy space that feels relaxed and inviting. 

Start by selecting furniture with clean lines and a neutral color palette. Avoid anything too ornate or fussy, as it can detract from the overall aesthetic. Natural materials, such as rattan, linen, and wood, are perfect for adding texture and warmth to space.

Using oversized furniture in coastal design is a great way to create a relaxed and comfortable vibe in your home. The large pieces can make a statement and add a sense of coziness to the space while complementing the coast’s natural beauty. 

Additionally, oversized furniture can be practical for entertaining guests or accommodating large families. Incorporating large-scale furniture into your coastal design can enhance your home’s aesthetic and functionality.

A Serene & Elegant Coastal Living Room 
Image courtesy of Muskoka Living

This bright, serene coastal living has a warm wood ceiling, floors, and comfortable furniture.  The playful patterns in the throw pillows add a splash of color, while the blue and white area rug grounds the space.

4. Add Layers to Add Interest & Warmth 

Layering is essential to provide an inviting warmth to almost any style of design, so be sure to add plenty of throw cushions and blankets wherever possible. Slipcovers on furniture, such as sofas, living room, and dining room chairs, are commonly used in shades of white, beige, or taupe.

Beach Home with textured Layers
Image courtesy of Bria Hammel Design

5. Include Wood Wherever Possible 

Embrace the Warmth of Wood: Woodwork details and flooring are the cornerstones of coastal style, weaving a sense of organic beauty into your space. Think painted board-and-batten, adding texture to walls or whitewashed panels, creating a breezy cottage atmosphere. Wainscoting adds a touch of timeless elegance reminiscent of seaside manors.

Flooring with a Coastal Touch: Light-colored wood flooring is best for coastal design. Opt for weathered finishes that evoke driftwood, or consider whitewashed options for a bright and airy feel. Natural maple tones can also work well, adding warmth and a rustic charm.

Coastal Design & Wood Flooring
Image courtesy of Jamie Merida Interiors

6. Incorporate Stripes 

Create a balance between narrow and wide stripes. Many coastal rooms incorporate broad blue and white or blue and tan stripes ranging from pale blues to navy. Incorporate narrow stripes for contrast in throw pillows, area rugs, and blankets.

Not a fan of stripes? Other options that add color and pattern, such as gingham and plaid, work well in a coastal-style home. Feature these prints in your choice of artwork, window treatments, accessories, and upholstery.

Using Stripes in Coastal Design
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily 

7. Keep it Airy, Breezy with Light Curtains 

Lightweight curtains bring in a relaxed and breezy feel, which is the perfect finishing touch to a coastal decor scheme. They can also help balance the strong tonal contrasts. In the living room below, white window treatments create a beautiful backdrop to a living room with dark wood flooring, white sofas and blue accent chairs. 

White Window Treatments
Image courtesy of TOM Design 

8. Take Full Advantage of Lake or Ocean Views 

For those lucky enough to boast a breathtaking ocean view, your design inspiration awaits right outside your window. Let the vast canvas of blues, greens, and whites inform your color scheme, creating a seamless flow from the interior to the exterior. The ocean serves as a naturally stunning focal point, so your decor should aim to complement this beauty, not compete with it.

Bringing the Beach Indoors:  But fear not if an ocean vista isn’t in your cards! Evoking the coastal vibe is still achievable. Introduce the calming essence of the sea with strategically placed coastal photography or paintings. These visual elements can transport you to a beachfront haven, even if you’re miles away.

Rustic Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Tays & Co.

9. Soft & Natural Lighting for a Coastal Feel

Lighting and accessories are important elements in creating a modern coastal look. Lighting should be soft and natural, with plenty of natural light streaming through windows. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors are great ways to allow natural light to flood into a room. 

Sheer curtains or other light-filtering window treatments can also help to create a soft, diffused light that adds to the coastal vibe. Mirrors are another great way to reflect natural light and make a room feel larger and brighter. 

Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest

10. Display Beach-Style Artwork 

Art and wall decor are essential elements in creating a modern coastal look. Here are a few coastal-inspired art and wall decor ideas to consider:

– Hang a series of beach-inspired prints or photographs.

– Use a large, statement piece of art featuring beach scenes or ocean waves.

– Create a gallery wall featuring a mix of beachy art and photographs.

– Hang a woven tapestry featuring a coastal scene.

– Use a driftwood or seashell wreath as a statement piece on your wall.

Displaying Coastal Artwork
Image courtesy of Jennifer Wundrow Interiors

11. It’s All in the Details 

Nothing conveys the feeling of coastal living quite like an open living room concept with oversized sofas, nautical stripes, coastal decor, sea-inspired accents, and seaside prints. 

In terms of decor, consider incorporating beach-inspired elements such as seashells, driftwood, and coral. But be careful not to overdo it; you don’t want your home to look like a beachside souvenir shop. Instead, choose key pieces that evoke the coastal vibe without being too literal.

Dining Area with Nautical Prints
Image courtesy of Jennifer Wundrow Interiors

12. Coastal Entryway Ideas

Designing a coastal entryway can be a fun and exciting project that can make your home stand out. Here are some tips on how to create the perfect coastal Entryway:

• Choose a color scheme that fits the coastal theme. Blues, greens, and sandy neutrals are great choices.

• Incorporate natural materials such as wood, rattan, and seagrass to add texture and depth to the space.

• Use decor that reflects the coastal theme, such as seashells, driftwood, and nautical artwork.

• Add a statement piece, such as a unique light fixture or a bold piece of furniture, to make the space pop.

• Remember lighting! Use soft, ambient lighting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Coastal Entryway Ideas
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily 

13. Coastal Kitchen Ideas

If you want to decorate a coastal kitchen, there are a few design elements to consider. For cabinets, opt for shades of white, cream, or blue. With white or cream cabinets, a blue range and hood can make a dramatic statement.

Incorporate natural textures like woven grass or rattan into your kitchen decor; consider using open shelving to display your baskets with dishware and cookbooks. Choose light fixtures that evoke the feeling of being near the water, such as lanterns or pendant lights with seagrass shades. 

Add some plants to bring some of the outdoors inside – succulents and tropical foliage are excellent choices for a coastal kitchen. With these tips, you can create a beautiful, relaxing space perfect for cooking, entertaining, and enjoying the coastal lifestyle.

Modern Coastal Kitchen with Blue Cabinets
Image courtesy of Marriane Simon Design

The beautiful kitchen above was designed by Marriane Simon and features soft blue kitchen cabinets, large pendant lighting, a dark round wood pedestal table, and warm wood flooring.  Natural light floods the space and creates a warm and inviting feel. The pendant lights, large ocean print, and floral arrangement add the perfect finishing touch. 

Coastal Kitchen Design With Custom Cabinetry
Image courtesy of Mindy Gayer Design

This full-scale remodel in Orange County, California, spanned 3 years from demolition to installation. Mindy Gayer’s clients, a young family of five, were looking for a forever home that could fit their personal lifestyle and aesthetic. The resulting home skews towards a more traditional style, with beautiful millwork and custom cabinetry details in every space. Mindy’s favorite part of this home is that the personal details and family heirlooms make the project feel truly unique and tailored from head to toe.

A Stunning Modern Coastal Kitchen in Contrasting White & Blue
Image courtesy of O’Brien Harris Fine Fitted Furniture

This magnificent modern farmhouse kitchen has a large expanse of windows providing natural sunlight.  The contrasting white cabinets complement the shades of blue in the countertops, range hood, and kitchen stools. It’s elegant and sophisticated and packs plenty of coastal charm.

14. Coastal Living Rooms

The allure of the coast beckons, promising relaxation and a connection to nature. By embracing coastal design elements, you can bring that same tranquility and beauty into your living room. Here are some inspiring ideas to transform your space into a haven of coastal comfort:

Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Jennifer Wundrow Interiors

To decorate a coastal living room:

The allure of the coast beckons, promising relaxation and a connection to nature. By embracing coastal design elements, you can bring that same tranquility and beauty into your living room. Here are some inspiring ideas to transform your space into a haven of coastal comfort:

• Use natural wood, wicker, and rattan to create a beachy vibe.

• Add nautical accents like anchor motifs, sailboat models, and seashell displays to complete the look.

• Use sheer curtains or light-colored blinds to let in plenty of natural light.

• Add a large natural fiber rug with a striped or coral pattern to tie everything together.

• Add some cozy throw pillows and a few decorative accents, like a vase of beach grass or a driftwood sculpture, to create a relaxing and inviting space.

• Create a display on your coffee table with books featuring ocean views, candles, sea glass, and natural decorative ornaments. 

Coastal Living Rooms 
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily

15. Coastal Dining Room Ideas

To create a cohesive coastal design in the dining room, consider adding a large and inviting wood table as center stage. Dining room chairs can be solid wood or fabric with a stripe pattern. Linen slipcovers or wicker and rattan work equally well. The goal is an artfully curated blend of warm natural tones with woven textures. Jute or sisal area rugs complement the mix.  

Coastal Dining Nook Area
Image courtesy of Cortney Bishop Design

Another way to bring the coastal theme into your dining room is through artwork. Consider hanging a large, ocean-inspired painting on the wall. Coastal wallpaper can also add vibrancy and interest to the space. 

Finally, remember the lighting! A large pendant light with a woven or rattan shade can add a beach style to your space while providing ample light for your dining needs. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful coastal dining room for yourself and your family to enjoy.

Elegant Coastal Dining Room with Striped Dining Chairs
Image courtesy of Muskoka Living

An elegant and casual dining room by Muskoka Living with striped dining room chairs, shiplap walls, and wood flooring. The two silver pendant lighting fixtures are the perfect size for a large white-washed dining room table. 

Coastal Dining Rooms by Muskoka
Image courtesy of Muskoka Living

16. Coastal Bedroom Ideas 

When decorating a coastal bedroom, you want to create a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Choose a soothing color palette. Think soft blues, greens, and sandy neutrals. Incorporate natural textures like rattan and jute to add warmth. Woven baskets, driftwood accents, and seashell decor are all great options.

Airy & Bright Coastal Bedroom
Image courtesy of Sarah Richardson Design

For bedding, use lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen in crisp whites or muted tones. To tie everything together, add some throw pillows in coordinating colors or patterns.

Finally, incorporate some coastal artwork or photographs to bring the theme home. Whether it’s a seascape painting or a collection of framed seashells, these finishing touches will complete the look and make your coastal bedroom feel like a serene oasis.

Serene & Lovely Coastal Bedroom
Image courtesy of Chelsey Hale Design

17. Coastal Home Office Ideas 

When decorating a coastal home office, you want to create a calming and serene atmosphere that reflects the beauty of the ocean. Light, airy colors like blues, greens, and whites achieve this.

Next, consider incorporating natural textures such as rattan, wicker, and driftwood to enhance the coastal vibe further. These materials can be used for furniture, wall decor, or storage solutions.

Nautical Inspired Home Office with Industrial Desk
Image courtesy of Lynn Holender Design

18. Natural Light to Flood the Space

Another critical aspect of a coastal home office is natural light. Position your desk near a window that allows plenty of sunlight to flood the space. This not only creates a bright and welcoming environment but also helps to boost productivity and mood.

Finally, don’t be afraid to add personal touches to your coastal home office. Whether it’s a collection of seashells, a framed beach photograph, or an artwork that reminds you of the ocean, these little touches can go a long way in making your workspace feel like a true sanctuary.

Natural Light in a Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Sarah Richardson Design

19. Coastal Bathroom Design

When designing a coastal bathroom, it is essential to remember the essence of the coastal aesthetic. As with other rooms in the home, incorporate natural materials like wood and stone to provide a more organic feel. 

Soft, muted colors such as blues, greens, and whites can also help achieve a coastal look that is fabulous in the bathroom. Additionally, add towels, shower curtains, and bathmats in soft hues of blue and white. Overall, a coastal bathroom should be serene and calming, focusing on natural elements and a color palette that reflects the ocean and beach.

Coastal Bathrooms
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily

20. Shiplap Ceiling

Shiplap ceilings add character and dimension to coastal interiors. In the image below, Pure Salt design created this serene and relaxed seaside living room with a white plank ceiling treatment and wood flooring. A large blue-gray sectional with abundant coastal-inspired throw pillows take center stage, while a wicker pendant light, large area rug, and rustic pottery add texture.

Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Pure Salt Interiors

21. Coastal-Inspired Bathroom Tiles

Blue and white geometric wall tiles add coastal charm to a small bathroom designed by Kate Marker. A light wood vanity and terracotta tile flooring add a rustic touch. Black and white accessories add contrast and a modern design element while providing a contemporary and fresh look to the space.

Coastal-Style Bathroom Tiles
Image courtesy of Kate Marker Interiors

22. Dreamy Shades of Blue

Beautiful shades of blue are layered throughout a modern coastal living room designed by Gloria Black, adding depth and dimension to this white interior. A light blue marble fireplace creates a striking focal point, while light wood flooring and a contemporary console add warmth and elegance. This stunning space also boasts a crystal chandelier, open shelving, gorgeous throw pillows, and sculptural vases.

Living Room in Shades of Blue
Image courtesy of Gloria Black

23. Pattern Play

Interior designer Valerie Grant designed a sophisticated coastal living room with a beautiful selection of patterns that adorn an accent wall, window treatments, and throw pillows. The colors of the lake are reflected throughout the space and are paired with crisp whites and subtle gray hues to create balance and visual interest. Fresh greenery and wall art add a bold pop of color.

Contemporary Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Valerie Grant

24. Light Gray, White & Blue

A serene coastal bedroom designed by Kate Marker incorporates a color palette of pale gray, white, and blue. Natural sunlight filters through sheer window treatments, while white bedding keeps things bright and fresh. Light wood accents, blue bedside tables, and a mixture of pattern and texture add visual interest.

Coastal Bedroom
Image courtesy of Kate Marker Interiors

25. Coastal Sunroom

A warm and welcoming coastal sunroom boasts three walls with a large expanse of windows, allowing natural sunlight to brighten the space. This lovely and relaxing space includes tile flooring, a wood ceiling treatment, linen window treatments, and a textural area rug. Fresh greenery, a woven lamp, and wood furniture bring in an interplay of natural elements.

Coastal Sunroom
Image courtesy of Pure Salt Interiors

26. Blue Built-In Cabinetry

Mindy Gayer designed a cheery and bright coastal living room with light blue built-in cabinets accentuated with white tiling and light wood accents. A linen sofa with a collection of blue and white pillows echoes the coastal theme. Brass lighting fixtures add a warm glow and a refined finishing touch.

Living Room with Blue Built-In Cabinets
Image courtesy of Mindy Gayer

27. Seagrass Wallpaper

In a living room designed by Valerie Grant, seagrass wallpaper in a neutral hue provides the perfect backdrop. This space features beautifully layered textures – from a large area rug to a woven console, a slatted wood ceiling treatment, and a blue marble fireplace insert.

Seagrass Wallpaper
Image courtesy of Valerie Grant

28. Stone Fireplace

A large stone fireplace adds texture and warmth to a coastal living room designed by Kate Marker. This sophisticated space features deep blue sofas, white accent chairs, and floor-to-ceiling black metal framed windows. A large area rug grounds the space, while shiplap walls and ceiling add a coastal flair.

Stone Fireplace in a Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Kate Marker Interiors

29. Coastal Outdoor Areas 

When decorating a coastal outdoor area, remember a few things. First and foremost, you’ll want to choose colors and materials that reflect the beach’s natural beauty. Be sure to add comfortable seating in outdoor fabrics and plenty of coastal-inspired cushions and pillows. After all, the whole point of an outdoor space is to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Add floral container pots as a finishing touch to your peaceful oasis.

Casual & Comfortable Outdoor Seating Area
Image courtesy of K & Co. Living.

Conclusion and Final Tips for Achieving a Modern Coastal Look 

Achieving a modern coastal look in your home is all about creating a calming, inviting, and relaxing space. Start by selecting a neutral color palette and layering in beach-inspired colors. Include neutral hues, white stripes, and subtle coastal elements. 

Select furniture with clean lines and natural materials and incorporate natural elements into your decor. Use lighting and accessories to enhance your home’s coastal vibe, and don’t be afraid to include DIY projects.

Coastal Decorating Ideas Images Optimized for Pinterest

Cozy Coastal Living Room
Image courtesy of Victoria Hagan Design

Coastal Decorating Ideas Images Optimized for Pinterest

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