10 Coastal Living Room Decor (Must-Haves)
Coastal living room decor brings the relaxed vibe of the beach into your home. It’s a popular style that can make any space feel like a seaside retreat. With the right coastal decor elements, you can transform your living room into a calming oasis that reminds you of sunny days by the shore.

This article will explore 10 coastal living room decor ideas to help you create that perfect beachy atmosphere. You’ll learn about color schemes, furniture choices, and accessories that capture the essence of coastal living. These tips will guide you in designing a space that feels both stylish and laid-back.
1. Beachy Striped Rug

A beachy striped rug can transform your coastal living room. It brings the feel of sand and sea right to your feet. Choose a rug with soft blues and whites to mimic ocean waves.
You can also pick one with sandy beige stripes for a more subtle beach vibe. The stripes create a classic nautical look that never goes out of style.
Place the rug under your coffee table to anchor your seating area. It will add warmth and texture to wood or tile floors.
For a bold statement, try a large striped rug that covers most of the room. This can make your space feel bigger and brighter.
Don’t forget about durability. Pick a rug made from sturdy materials like cotton or synthetic fibers. These can stand up to sandy feet and spills.
You can even use your striped rug to define different areas in an open-plan space. It’s a great way to separate your living room from a dining area.
Remember, stripes don’t have to be just blue and white. Try other beach-inspired colors like coral, turquoise, or sea green.
2. Nautical Throw Pillows

Nautical throw pillows are a must-have for coastal living room decor. They add a touch of seaside charm to your space without going overboard. You can find pillows with various ocean-inspired designs like anchors, sailboats, or seashells.
Blue and white striped pillows are classic choices that never go out of style. They pair well with solid-colored furniture and give your room a crisp, clean look.
For a more playful vibe, try pillows with cute sea creatures like whales, octopuses, or starfish. These can be great conversation starters when guests visit.
Text-based pillows with coastal sayings or coordinates of your favorite beach town can add a personal touch. They’re perfect for creating a cozy, relaxed atmosphere in your living room.
Mix and match different sizes and shapes of nautical pillows for visual interest. Combine square, rectangular, and round pillows to create a layered look on your sofa or chairs.
Choose pillows made from durable, easy-to-clean fabrics like cotton or outdoor-grade materials. This way, you can enjoy your coastal decor without worrying about spills or wear and tear.
Remember to stick to a cohesive color scheme when selecting your nautical throw pillows. Blues, whites, and neutrals work well together and maintain a fresh, beachy feel in your living room.
3. Driftwood Coffee Table

A driftwood coffee table can be the perfect centerpiece for your coastal living room. It brings a natural, beachy feel right into your home. You can find these tables in various styles and sizes to fit your space.
Driftwood tables often have unique shapes and textures. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, adding character to your room. The weathered look of driftwood fits well with other coastal decor elements.
You can choose a table with a glass top for a more polished look. This option lets you see the full beauty of the driftwood base. It also makes the table easier to clean and use for everyday items.
If you prefer a more rustic feel, go for a solid driftwood top. This creates a sturdy surface for books, drinks, and coastal decorations. The natural wood grain adds warmth to your space.
Some driftwood tables come with built-in storage. Look for designs with shelves or drawers to keep your living room tidy. You can store magazines, remote controls, or beach treasures in these spaces.
To care for your driftwood table, dust it regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners that might damage the wood. A light coat of furniture wax can help protect the surface and keep it looking great.
4. Shell-Inspired Wall Art

Shell-inspired wall art brings the beach into your coastal living room. You can hang framed prints of seashells or create a gallery wall with actual shells. This adds texture and a natural element to your space.
Consider a large canvas painting of a single shell as a focal point. It can make a bold statement above your couch or fireplace. For a more subtle look, try small shell-themed art pieces scattered throughout the room.
You might also display shadow boxes filled with collected shells from your beach trips. This personal touch adds meaning to your decor. Another option is to use shell-shaped mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Don’t forget about other sea creatures in your wall art. Starfish, sand dollars, and coral designs work well too. Mix and match these with shell art for a varied coastal look.
Remember to keep the colors in your shell art soft and natural. Think sandy beiges, soft blues, and creamy whites. This helps maintain a calm, beachy feel in your living room.
5. Wicker Accent Chairs

Wicker accent chairs add a breezy, coastal feel to your living room. These versatile pieces blend well with various decor styles while bringing a touch of nature indoors.
Choose wicker chairs in natural tones like beige or light brown for a classic look. White-painted wicker offers a crisp, clean appearance that fits well in beach-themed spaces.
Look for chairs with comfortable cushions in coastal colors. Blues, greens, and sandy hues work great. You can easily swap out cushions to change the look with the seasons.
Wicker chairs come in different shapes and sizes. Rounded backs create a cozy feel, while straight-backed designs offer a more modern look. Pick a style that matches your room’s vibe.
Place a wicker chair in a corner to create a cozy reading nook. Add a small side table and a lamp for the perfect spot to relax with a book.
You can also use a pair of wicker chairs to frame a window or fireplace. This setup makes a nice conversation area in your coastal living room.
Remember to care for your wicker chairs. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent damage. Regular dusting will help maintain their appearance.
6. Seagrass Baskets

Seagrass baskets are a great addition to your coastal living room. They bring a natural, beachy feel to your space. These baskets come in different sizes and shapes, so you can find ones that fit your needs.
You can use seagrass baskets for storage in your coastal living room. They’re perfect for holding blankets, magazines, or beach towels. Place a large basket next to your couch to keep these items within reach.
Smaller seagrass baskets work well on shelves or coffee tables. You can fill them with seashells, driftwood, or other beach finds. This creates a nice display that fits your coastal theme.
Seagrass baskets also make good planters. Put some small plants in them to add greenery to your room. Succulents or air plants are good choices for a low-maintenance option.
The neutral color of seagrass goes well with many coastal color schemes. It matches nicely with blues, whites, and sandy tones. You can mix and match different sizes of baskets to create visual interest.
When you’re not using them, stack your seagrass baskets for a decorative look. This saves space and adds texture to your room. You can also hang some baskets on the wall as art pieces.
7. Coral Table Lamp

A coral table lamp can bring a splash of coastal charm to your living room. This unique accent piece adds texture and visual interest to any space. Coral-shaped lamps come in various styles and colors to suit your decor preferences.
You can find coral lamps made from ceramic, resin, or even real coral. White or cream-colored lamps offer a classic, beachy look. For a bolder statement, try a lamp in vibrant coral, pink, or turquoise hues.
Place your coral lamp on a side table next to the sofa or on a console table behind it. It will create a soft, warm glow perfect for relaxing evenings by the sea. Pair it with other coastal elements like seashells or driftwood for a cohesive theme.
When selecting a lampshade, opt for neutral tones that complement the coral base. Linen or cotton shades in white or beige work well. They allow the intricate details of the coral design to shine through.
Remember to consider the size of your lamp in relation to your furniture. A larger coral lamp can serve as a striking centerpiece, while smaller ones work well in pairs. With the right coral table lamp, you’ll bring a touch of undersea beauty to your coastal living room.
8. Ocean Wave Canvas Art

Ocean wave canvas art brings the beauty of the sea into your coastal living room. These pieces capture the power and serenity of ocean waves in stunning detail. You can choose from realistic photographs or artistic interpretations of waves.
Large statement pieces work well as focal points above sofas or fireplaces. Smaller canvases can be grouped together to create an eye-catching gallery wall. The colors in ocean wave art often include soothing blues, greens, and whites.
Look for pieces that match your room’s color scheme and overall style. Some artworks feature crashing waves for a dramatic effect. Others show calm waters for a more peaceful vibe.
Canvas prints offer a modern, frameless look that fits well with coastal decor. The texture of canvas adds depth and interest to your walls. You can find ocean wave art in various sizes to fit any space in your living room.
This type of artwork helps reinforce the coastal theme in your space. It creates a strong connection to the sea, even if you’re miles from the coast. Ocean wave canvas art can make your living room feel like a relaxing beach retreat.
9. Rattan Pendant Lights

Rattan pendant lights bring a breezy, tropical vibe to your coastal living room. These natural woven fixtures cast beautiful shadows and add texture to your space.
You can hang a single large rattan pendant as a statement piece over your coffee table. Or try grouping several smaller rattan lights at different heights for visual interest.
Look for rattan pendants in dome or globe shapes to complement your coastal decor. Some styles incorporate seashells or driftwood for extra beachy flair.
The warm glow filtered through rattan creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere perfect for seaside living. These lights work well with both bright and muted color schemes.
Rattan pendants pair nicely with other natural materials like jute rugs, linen curtains, and wooden furniture. They add an organic touch to balance out sleeker elements in your room.
For a modern coastal look, choose rattan pendants with clean lines and minimal designs. More intricate weaves offer a more bohemian or tropical feel.
You can find rattan pendant lights in various sizes to fit your space. Larger fixtures make bold focal points, while smaller ones provide subtle accents.
Remember to consider the height of your ceiling when selecting rattan pendants. Adjust the cord length as needed for the perfect placement in your coastal living room.
10. Linen Slipcovered Sofa

A linen slipcovered sofa is a perfect addition to your coastal living room. Its relaxed and breezy look fits right in with beach-inspired decor. The light, natural fabric brings a fresh feel to your space.
Linen slipcovers are easy to remove and wash. This makes them great for homes near the beach where sand and salt air can be an issue. You can keep your sofa looking clean and new with minimal effort.
These sofas come in various shades of white, cream, and beige. These neutral colors work well with many coastal color schemes. You can easily change up your room’s look by adding colorful pillows or throws.
The loose fit of slipcovers adds to the casual, laid-back vibe of coastal decor. It gives your living room a comfortable, lived-in feel that’s perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
Linen is a durable fabric that can stand up to daily use. It also gets softer over time, making your sofa more comfortable as the years go by. This longevity makes it a smart choice for your coastal living room.
Design Principles for Coastal Living Rooms

Coastal living rooms blend seaside charm with comfort. Key elements include light colors, natural textures, and ocean-inspired accents. These spaces aim to create a relaxed, breezy atmosphere.
Complementing Colors and Textures
Choose a palette of soft blues, sandy beiges, and crisp whites to echo the beach. Add pops of coral or sea glass green for visual interest. Mix textures like:
- Smooth driftwood
- Rough rope
- Soft linen
- Woven seagrass
Use weathered wood furniture to bring in a beachy vibe. Incorporate natural fibers in rugs, curtains, and throw pillows. Hang artwork featuring seashells, boats, or ocean scenes.
Layer different shades of blue to create depth. Try painting walls a pale blue and adding navy accents. Use white trim to keep the space bright and airy.
Balance Between Functionality and Aesthetics
Pick sturdy, easy-to-clean fabrics for your coastal living room. Slipcovers work well for sofas and chairs. They’re simple to wash and can be swapped out seasonally.
Choose furniture with clean lines and a casual feel. Opt for:
- Comfy sectionals
- Wicker armchairs
- Glass-top coffee tables
Add storage with built-in shelves or woven baskets. This keeps clutter at bay and maintains the room’s breezy look.
Use sheer curtains to let in plenty of natural light. Install dimmer switches to create a cozy evening atmosphere. Pick lighting fixtures made of materials like:
- Frosted glass
- Rope
- Driftwood
These elements blend function with coastal style.
Key Elements of Coastal Decor

Coastal decor brings the relaxed feel of the beach into your home. It uses light colors, natural materials, and lots of sunlight to create a breezy atmosphere.
Incorporating Natural Materials
Natural materials are key to coastal style. Use wood furniture with a light or whitewashed finish. Rattan and wicker chairs add texture and a casual vibe.
Jute rugs bring warmth underfoot. Seagrass baskets make great storage. Display shells, driftwood, and sea glass as decor items.
Add linen curtains and cotton throw pillows for softness. Choose fabrics in white, beige, or pale blue. Avoid heavy materials like velvet or leather.
Rope accents tie the coastal look together. Try a rope-wrapped mirror or lamp base. Hang artwork in simple wood frames to keep things light and airy.
Optimizing for Natural Light
Coastal rooms feel bright and open. Remove heavy window coverings to let in more sun. Use sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds for privacy.
Paint walls in pale shades like white, cream, or light blue. These colors reflect light and make spaces feel bigger. Add mirrors to bounce light around the room.
Choose light-colored furniture to keep the airy feel. Dark pieces can feel heavy in a coastal space. Go for white, off-white, or light wood tones.
Use glass accents to enhance the bright feel. Try a glass coffee table or clear lamps. These pieces let light flow through, keeping the room open and breezy.
Accessorizing for a Coastal Feel

The right accessories can transform your living room into a coastal retreat. Choose pieces that bring the beach indoors and create a relaxed, seaside vibe.
Choosing Art and Wall Decor
Pick artwork that showcases ocean scenes or beach life. Framed photos of seascapes, shells, or sailboats work well. You can hang a large painting of crashing waves as a focal point.
Wall-mounted oars or surfboards add a fun coastal touch. Group small prints of sea creatures or nautical maps for a gallery wall effect. Mirrors with rope or driftwood frames reflect light and expand the space.
Try a wooden sign with a beach-related quote to add character. Woven wall hangings in blue and white patterns bring texture and coastal colors to your walls.
Incorporating Plants and Greenery
Add potted plants to bring life to your coastal living room. Palm trees or other tropical plants create a beachy feel. Place them in woven baskets or blue ceramic pots for a seaside look.
Succulents in shell planters make great coffee table decorations. Hang air plants in glass orbs for a unique touch. A vase of fresh flowers or dried grasses can brighten up any surface.
Use plants to soften corners and add height to your decor. A large fiddle leaf fig tree can become a striking focal point. Small herb pots on windowsills bring fresh scents and greenery to your space.

