How to Create a Tablescape with a Coastal Cottage Summer Vibe
Do you enjoy dining al fresco? I’ll show you how I created a tablescape with a coastal cottage vibe for summer dining.
Nothing makes me happier than dining outdoors during the summer months. Creating beautiful coastal tables is always so much fun; this one was no exception.
This coastal-themed tablescape was in the front yard of our beach house, a perfect place to share a meal. Of course, the inspiration comes from living across the street from a bay view of Puget Sound.
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My Summer Tablescape with Coastal Vibes
Summer is a time for long, lazy days, balmy evenings, and the feeling of sand between your toes. But even when you can’t be by the ocean, you can bring the joy of the coast home with a stunning summer tablescape.
In this post, you’ll see how I created a summer tablescape with a fun coastal theme, combining simple seaside decorations, natural elements, and a touch of whimsy. It’s the perfect way to set the stage for unforgettable summer meals and gatherings without leaving your backyard.
So grab a seashell (or two), and let’s dive into creating your own slice of coastal paradise!
Coastal Style Inspiration
My coastal-style table was inspired by the Puget Sound water view seen in the distance.
The waterview looks different throughout the day because of the tide going in and out. When I took these pictures, the tide was out, and there wasn’t as much water filling the bay. But that didn’t keep this outdoor space from being a perfect spot to eat al fresco.
This is a special spot because it’s also in our cottage garden. We have the best of both worlds: a view of the water and the gorgeous garden flowers surrounding this seating area.
Our Coastal Living Outdoor Table
This coastal-style table will be set for two today.
We brought our white iron vintage table and chairs out of storage for this coastal tablescape. The only thing I would change next time is using a table with an umbrella hole for sun relief.
I used the stone patio area for the first time and loved what an inviting space it was.
The Centerpiece With Coastal Vibes
With such a small table space, “simple” is undoubtedly best. The centerpiece only includes a few natural elements, but they make a big impression.
A centerpiece overflowing with seashells, floating candles in Mason jars, and a nautical glass float. These decor summer classics evoke the feeling of long walks on the beach.
Let’s start with table runners. Use natural fibers like jute, seagrass, or burlap. These materials will bring a relaxed, organic feel to your tablescape and complement the natural elements of a coastal theme.
I used a scarf I bought in Greece while on vacation.
This glass float was just the nautical look I was looking for. It was much less expensive than a vintage float and perfectly matched the coastal table color palette.
Continuing with coastal decor, the centerpiece included seashells of all shapes and sizes. You could also use sea glass for your table decor.
White sand with sun-kissed seashells are nestled in Mason jars with floating candles. What a great way to have a beachy touch!
Place Settings
Round woven chargers and white melamine plates with turquoise starfish set the foundation for these coastal-style place settings.
The navy, aqua, and white print cloth napkins look stunning inside the ceramic fish napkin rings.
As you can see, creating a charming summer coastal tablescape doesn’t require a lot of work. With a few simple elements and a touch of creativity, you can bring the beauty of the seashore to your table.
Gather some seashells, drape a breezy table runner, and light sea salt candles. With these easy steps, you’ll be ready to dine under the summer sun or have a casual dinner under the twinkle lights, surrounded by the calming vibes of the coast, all from the comfort of your own home.
If you have any questions or additional suggestions, please share them in the comments below. And be sure to share this blog post link with anyone who may enjoy this summer coastal tablescape post.
Until next time,
Happy Summer Dining!
Obsessing over these beautiful pops of turquoise and your gorgeous view sweet friend! I love how you put this tablescape together. It feels so warm and inviting. From the shells, to the stipes to the fish napkin rings and the wicker charger these details are perfection. Big hgus and happy summer, CoCo
Thank you, Coco. This was a really fun table to put together.
Kim you have the perfect space for a coastal tablescape. I love that this is your first one! I bet you will do many more. Enjoy that gorgeous view and table for two!
I will definitely do more of them now Kelly. It was so strange to use something other than flowers for a tablescape. But I finally figured out that it CAN be done!
10 years and no coastal table?! I get it but where you live you technically have the perfect coastal setting each time your dine outside – no centerpiece needed. 😉 Great idea to use the scarf as a table runner too. Enjoy it! And you must be so easy to please if nothing else makes you happier than dining al-fresco. 😉
I am truly easy to please! It is a little strange to have never tried a coastal table. I always stay with a garden-inspired theme. But Amber finally got me thinking after organizing this hop.
Kim,
Your table looks so pretty in this spot. I loved all the shades of blue and green you used.
Thank you, Rachel. I’m so happy that I thought to put a table here this summer. We love using it.
What a beautiful table kim! Love the garden and water view!
Thank you Stacy!
How absolutely perfect is this! I am so thrilled that this hop gave your the chance to create your first coastal themed tablescape! More please!!!!
It’s all so pretty and the colors are amazing. The little floating candles with shells in the jars are wonderful and I will definitely be borrowing that idea!
I just love every visit to your home and garden. Oh those views all around! Thank you for sharing with us and joining the hop.
Happy summer!
Just think Amber…YOU were the inspiration behind this table. I’m so happy to join you in these amazing blog hops you create. Keep them coming, my friend! Enjoy the rest of your summer.
Kim what a great table. The little candles with water and your scarf for Greece are priceless. Super cute!
Thank you, Ann. I really loved putting together the candles.
This is my kind of table for two, and what a gorgeous view of the bay even during low tide. I love the the scarf, the float and the shells. I never would have thought of shells in water with the floating candle. So smart! Pinning!
The seashells in the water just came to me and I’m so glad they did! Come on over and we can have lunch here this summer Michelle!
Your table is so pretty, Kim! I love how the colors go with your gorgeous scenery! What an amazing spot to dine!
Shelley
Thanks so much, Shelley! I do love these gorgeous colors.
What a beautiful setting Kim! That view and your table are lovely! I love the way you did the shells across and the color scheme. The pillows in the chairs are such a pretty touch! Wish I could come join you!
Thank you, Kristin. What’s stopping you from getting on a plane and having a meal with me this summer? And then we’ll jet-set back to your cabin on the lake and sit on the dock and go boating and a swim. Sounds pretty perfect.
Such a perfect spot for an al fresco dinner for two. The ticking tablerunner with other fabrics really work so well with all the pretty shades of blue. Your home and property are so lovely, I’d be eating outdoors each meal if I could see your lovely view. Have a great weekend, Kim!
Thank you, Debra. I haven’t been able to use the scarf as a table runner on our other two larger tables as I had hoped so it was great to be able to incorporate it here on the smaller one.
Kim your tablescape is stunning! Paired with a gorgeous garden and stunning view it’s simply perfection!
You are so sweet. Thank you for the wonderful compliment, Laura.