Small Beach Cottage Decorating Ideas With Coastal Charm

Looking for decorating ideas for a beach cottage? Look no further! As the summer months roll in, there’s no better time to create a fresh and inviting coastal vibe for the season. Take a tour of my 1920 beach cottage, where I’ll share simple summer coastal decorating ideas that will transform your home into a serene and relaxing beachy oasis.

Using natural elements and classic coastal colors is a perfect way to give your home a charming coastal cottage style during the summer months ahead.

Today, I’ll show you multiple ways to create your own beach cottage space both inside and outdoors. Let’s look at how a coastal cottage decor style can be perfect for your summer home.

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Enjoy Past Summer Home Tours

Before we get started, here are some of the other summer tours I’ve shared on the blog in the past.

Understanding Coastal Cottage Decor

Have you ever seen the movie Top Gun, where Maverick goes to Charile’s house for dinner? “Sitting By the Dock of the Bay” plays in the background; they sit on painted wicker furniture, and the white curtains blow in the wind.

For some reason, that scene stuck with me. It inspired me to live in a place with that beachy, seaside vibe.

One of the great things about this decor style is that you don’t need to own a beach house to bring its charm into your home. Whether in the city, a quiet suburb, or the country, you can pull inspiration from coastal cottage decor and create a tranquil, seaside-inspired oasis anywhere.

What is Coastal Cottage Style?

Coastal cottage-style decor is timeless. It brings the relaxed, serene feel of the beach into your home. Its simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty blend all the elements a charming seaside cottage offers.

When I think of coastal decor, I see crisp whites and airy colors, wicker accents, distressed wood, and seashells, just to name a few. It’s all about creating a charming, peaceful summer space for my family and guests.

Let’s look at embracing that coastal cottage design and creating a seaside sanctuary.

Coastal Cottage Color Palettes

Choose a light and airy color palette to set the tone for your coastal cottage.

Crips whites, blues, sandy beiges, and seafoam greens mimic the natural hues of the beach, reflecting the sky, sea, and sand.

Use these shades on walls, furniture, and decor to create a calming look.

Coastal Cottage Textures & Patterns

Mix natural materials and textures to bring the essence of the outdoors inside.

Wicker and rattan furniture, jute rugs, and distressed wooden accents are the best basics for a coastal cottage design. They add warmth and texture to create a cozy and inviting space.

Coastal Cottage Design Elements

Small Beach House Decorating Ideas to Try This Summer

Like I said earlier in the post, you don’t have to have a coastal home to embrace a beach cottage look for the summer. Coastal elements such as seashells, vintage oars, or glass bottles are easy to decorate with and relatively inexpensive.

Below are some coastal cottage-style decor ideas for each room.

Coastal Living Room

I have a small space to work with in my living room, so decorating my home without becoming cluttered can be quite challenging.

The trick to a clutter-free (alright, who am I kidding…moderately clutter-free) space in our small beach cottage is to pick only some of my favorite things and try to show some restraint.

Coastal Style Coffee Table Charm

The perfect place to start adding coastal-style decor is the coffee table.

You can add many great coastal living room decor items, such as seashells, flowers in glass jars, or coastal-inspired books.

A gray and white striped scarf I bought in Greece last year was the foundation for my coastal cottage coffee table vibe. It provided much-needed texture and added warmth to the stark white table.

One of my favorite beachy cottage decor pieces to display in the summer season is a vintage glass container that I fill with sand and seashells.

I found this round whitewashed wicker basket at HomeGoods. The aqua glass vases were also from HomeGoods and cost under $10 each. They look very beachy, don’t you think?

A vintage white enamel oval tray is perfect for displaying a glass float, starfish, and clean cotton candle. I love this fragrance for summer.

Bring in Fresh Flowers for Summer

Nothing is better than bringing fresh flowers into the house all summer. You can choose from many vessels, including glass bottles, mason jars, and vintage galvanized buckets.

Lavender and rosemary are also great options to show off in the summer.

Those new to Shiplap and Shells might not realize that I grow a cut flower garden every summer to have fresh flowers at any time during the season.

Here are a few cut flowers I grow yearly… and the list goes on.

Coastal Accents for a Summer Beach Coastal Cottage

Sea glass, coral, and nautical-inspired decor is a great way to create a beach house look that exudes coastal charm.

Some cottage beach house decorating ideas include vintage books in coastal blues and shades of beige and sand, glass fishing floats, and starfish and seashells.

Use bowls, trays, and jars to display seashells and glass floats. Seashells are simple to use and are budget-friendly.

The fresh Puget Sound fish metal sign is one of my favorites and perfectly sets the beach cottage style. The blue vases are great coastal colors and tie everything together.

Natural Fibers and Textures

Lighten up textures for summer by switching to cotton and linens.

Light throws and pillows on our living room window seat help to create a coastal haven.

Incorporate natural textures and fibers into your beachy cottage decor for a more coastal feel. A jute rug adds visual interest and a beachy feel to your living space.

Crisp white slipcovered chairs are a classic beach cottage necessity.

Wicker baskets and furniture are perfect coastal home decor choices for the season and pair beautifully with summer whites.

Summer Coastal Colors in Our Beach Cottage

When it comes to coastal cottage decorating, blue colors are an obvious choice. Opt for pale blues that remind you of the sea for tranquility.

Use blue, white, and sand colors in pillows, curtains, throws, and upholstery.

Because we are out on our deck so much in the summer, a pile of light throws is available when the sun goes down and the temperature drops.

Wood Tones

The wood tones in our ceiling beams and wood flooring warm our beach cottage.

Wooden oars, dough bowls, and vintage wood stools used as side tables are other coastal decor ideas for your home in the summer.

Natural Elements for Coastal Cottage Decor

Use natural elements like driftwood, seashells, and woven baskets to bring a touch of the beach indoors.

Incorporate these natural materials through wall art, decorative accents, and furniture to enhance the coastal vibe.

My shiplap white walls are a blank canvas that reflects white, making the space feel brighter and more open. It also provides a perfect backdrop for my cottage decor.

The oversized hanging basket in the corner has been a great investment piece.

Coastal Kitchen

This is where the living room meets the kitchen. Our bright and cheerful coastal kitchen is inspired by a beachy color palette, open shelving, and seaside decor.

There used to be a wall dividing the kitchen and living room. All that was there was a small opening into the kitchen. You couldn’t see the table at all.

Coastal Color Palette

The summer colors I chose here were white and a mix of blue shades, including navy, aqua, and mid-blue tones. This color palette gives the kitchen a sense of tranquility and a connection to the sea.

Yellow accents with bowls, lemons, and pillows on my window seats were added to the color scheme, but you could also use sandy beiges or corals with your beach cottage decor.

Use Open Shelving and Countertops to Show Off Your Coastal Charm

Display beachy elements like starfish, crisp white dishes, and fish-themed dishes on your kitchen open shelving.

Beachy blues, whites, and yellow accents add to the seaside vibe.

I love displaying vintage pieces like white ironstone dishware and this scale on the shelving to create interest.

Starfish-shaped dishes and coastal-inspired printed dishtowels fit right into the beachy cottage feel.

Storage Solutions for a Small Kitchen

Pot Rack

We made the iron pipe pot rack for more storage. We hang our vintage copper pans, utensils, colanders, baskets, and dried flowers.

Kitchen Island

Our kitchen island is a repurposed antique dresser we found on Craigslist. Our contractor installed a butcher block top that he found from a Dunkin’ Donuts that was going out of business.

This piece is the perfect size for our small cozy kitchen.

Vintage Cabinets

Because we have a smaller home, I use vintage and antique pieces for storage solutions wherever possible.

This old cabinet, which was orange when I first saw it, was love at first sight. I found it at an antique store in Gig Harbor over twenty years ago.

I love that there are glass doors to show off certain things and closed doors that store the not-so-pretty kitchen items.

This is probably the boldest color I’ve ever painted a piece of furniture, but it’s the first thing people see when they walk into the kitchen.

The perfect coastal color!

The black glass door cabinet sits outside the kitchen, storing a vintage white ironstone collection.

Natural Textures and Materials

Wicker chairs in the kitchen are a great way to show off your coastal cottage style. Use woven placemats and table runners on your kitchen table.

Wicker baskets are an essential item in our beach cottage kitchen. They make quite a statement whether they’re picnic baskets hanging from the pot rack or used for storage and organization.

This basket is perfect for holding my vintage wooden rolling pins and breadboards.

Summer Dining at the Beach Cottage

We don’t have a formal dining room, but this eating space in the kitchen looks out to the bay. I love my rustic farmhouse table from Dutch Crafters in this space, which also has wicker chairs and window seating.

We added the window seat after living here for a few years. There wasn’t much space for entertaining, so this works nicely. The new seating also gave me extra drawers underneath for storage.

The Coffee Station

Remember when I told you (several times) that our kitchen is small?

I’m always thinking outside the box when it comes to our 1600-square-foot home. Just to the right of our refrigerator is the coffee bar. It’s across from our walk-in pantry (which used to be a bathroom).

This is a small hallway from the laundry room and primary bedroom to the kitchen.

We put a narrow dresser in the space for the espresso maker and a shelf for seasonal decor. Just recently, we installed reclaimed wood on the hallway’s ceiling.

As you can tell, we always find a way to use every inch of space in our cozy coastal cottage.

Coastal Bedroom Ideas: Creating a Tranquil Seaside Retreat

Transforming our bedroom into a coastal sanctuary has brought a peaceful feel of the beach into this space.

You can create a relaxing space perfect for unwinding after a long day with the right elements. Here are some ideas to help you design a coastal-inspired bedroom with a seaside vibe.

Soft and Breezy Color Scheme

Choose shades like crisp whites, soft blues, gentle greens, and sandy neutrals to match the calming hues of the beach and the sea. Use these tones on your walls, bedding, and accents to create a cohesive and tranquil look.

Natural Textures and Materials

Wooden furniture with a distressed or weathered finish can add a touch of rustic charm. Use a wicker headboard for your bed or a chair for that charming coastal feel. Lay down a jute or sisal rug to bring in earthy textures.

Linen bedding and curtains look airy and light and provide comfort and breathability.

Nautical and Beachy Decor

Accessorize your bedroom with nautical and beach-inspired decor to infuse it with coastal charm.

Seashells in jars and cloches, starfish, and driftwood make a great shelf and nightstand decor. To tie everything together, include artwork or prints featuring ocean scenes, sailboats, or coastal landscapes.

Cozy and Comfortable Bedding

Choose cozy and comfortable bedding with soft, breathable fabrics. Crisp white sheets, light quilts, and fluffy pillows are perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Layer your bedding with throws and decorative pillows in coastal colors and patterns to add visual interest and comfort.

Bringing in Natural Light

Maximize natural light to make your coastal bedroom feel bright and airy. Use sheer curtains or shades that allow sunlight to filter through while providing privacy.

Mirrors can also help reflect light and make the space feel larger and more open. Position your bed near a window to enjoy the natural light and, if lucky, a beautiful view.

Subtle Coastal Accents

A bowl of collected seashells, a vase filled with beach grasses, or fresh flowers are all small touches that can add to the overall coastal feel.

Coastal Bathroom Ideas: Creating a Refreshing Oasis

Bringing coastal charm into your bathroom requires a mix of light colors, natural materials, and beach-inspired accents, which creates a space that feels airy and tranquil.

Here are some ideas for designing a coastal-inspired bathroom that creates the calm and beauty of the seaside.

Light and Airy Color Palette

Whites, soft blues, seafoam greens, and sandy neutrals are perfect on walls, cabinetry, and tiles for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Add a pop of color with accessories like towels, rugs, and shower curtains in complementary hues.

Natural Materials and Textures

Incorporate natural materials and textures to bring your bathroom an organic, beachy feel.

Choose wood elements with a weathered or driftwood finish, such as a wooden vanity or shelving. Stone countertops and pebble shower floors can add a touch of natural elegance.

To enhance the coastal vibe, use wicker or rattan baskets for storage.

Nautical and Beach-Inspired Decor

Accessorize with seashells, starfish, and coral for coastal charm. Hang a framed piece of coastal artwork or a nautical mirror to bring a touch of seaside flair.

Subtle details like rope towel holders or anchor-shaped hooks can further enhance the theme.

Fresh and Breezy Textiles

Choose towels and bath mats in soft, coastal colors or with nautical stripes. A shower curtain with a beach-inspired pattern or motif can be a focal point in the room.

Use lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton for window treatments to allow natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy.

Coastal Tile Designs

White or soft blue subway tiles can create a clean, classic look. Mosaic tiles in shades of blue and green can mimic the colors of the ocean and add visual interest.

Beach Cottage Front Porch and Deck Decor Ideas

The front porch of your beach cottage is the perfect place to showcase your love for coastal decor while creating a welcoming and relaxing entryway to your home.

Our front porch also happens to be the deck, so we have a lot of space to create plenty of coastal charm.

Coastal Color Palette

Use refreshing hues of the beach, such as soft blues, sandy beiges, seafoam greens, and whites, to create a calming atmosphere.

Paint your porch furniture, railings, and trim in these colors to create a cohesive coastal look.

Comfortable Seating

Invest in comfortable seating for relaxation on your front porch. Adirondack chairs, wicker or rattan furniture, and wooden benches are perfect for a beach cottage vibe.

To add comfort and style, accessorize with plush cushions and throw pillows in coastal colors and patterns, such as nautical stripes, tropical prints, or seashell motifs.

Nautical and Beach-Inspired Accents

Accessorize your porch with nautical and beach-inspired accents to infuse it with coastal charm. Hanging and tabletop lanterns can add a warm and inviting glow in the evening.

Hanging a coastal wreath of seashells, driftwood, or nautical rope on your front door adds a beachy touch.

Outdoor Rugs and Textiles

Lay down an outdoor rug in a coastal pattern or color to define the seating area and add a layer of comfort.

Choose rugs made from durable, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements. Complement the rug with coordinating outdoor cushions and throw blankets for those cooler evenings by the sea.

Potted Plants and Greenery

Incorporate potted plants and greenery to bring life and color to your front porch. Choose plants that thrive in coastal conditions, such as succulents, ferns, or ornamental grasses.

To add visual interest, use a mix of pots in different sizes and materials, such as terracotta, ceramic, or galvanized metal. Hanging planters or window boxes filled with flowers can also brighten the space.

Beach-Inspired Decor

Add beach-inspired decor to reinforce the seaside theme. Consider using driftwood pieces, seashells, and starfish as decorative accents on tables or shelves.

A weathered wooden sign with a beachy message or a vintage surfboard propped against the wall can add a playful touch. Wind chimes of shells or bamboo can create a soothing sound in the breeze.

Functional and Stylish Lighting

Make sure your front porch is well-lit with functional and stylish lighting. String lights or fairy lights can create a magical ambiance in the evening.

Wall-mounted lanterns or sconces with a nautical design can provide ample lighting and enhance the coastal aesthetic.

Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that can add a soft glow to your porch without needing electrical outlets.

Coastal Garden Decor Ideas

Transforming Your Outdoor Space into a Seaside Oasis

Creating a coastal-themed garden can bring the peace and serenity of the beach to your outdoor space. Using elements inspired by the sea and shore, you can design a garden that feels like a tranquil seaside retreat.

Coastal Color Scheme

Start with a coastal color scheme that reflects the natural hues of the beach. Soft blues, seafoam greens, sandy beiges, and crisp whites can set a serene tone for your garden.

Use these colors for planters, garden furniture, and decorative accents to create a cohesive and calming environment.

Nautical and Beach-Inspired Accents

Bring coastal charm to your garden by incorporating nautical and beach-inspired accents, such as driftwood sculptures, seashells, and starfish, into your flower beds and pathways.

A weathered wooden anchor or ship wheel can make a perfect focal point. Rope details on planters and furniture add a subtle maritime touch.

Comfortable Outdoor Furniture

Choose comfortable outdoor furniture for relaxation. Adirondack chairs, teak benches, and wicker sofas are perfect for a coastal garden.

Add cushions and throw pillows in coastal colors and patterns for comfort and style. Consider a hammock or a swing chair for a cozy spot to unwind.

Coastal-Inspired Planters

Use coastal-inspired planters to house your garden plants.

Terracotta pots, galvanized metal buckets, and weathered wooden containers can all enhance the beachy vibe.

Natural Materials and Textures

Incorporate natural materials and textures to create an organic, seaside feel.

Use gravel or pebble pathways to mimic the look of a beach. Install a wooden deck or boardwalk to evoke the feel of a coastal pier. Natural stone and weathered wood can be used for garden edging, seating, and decorative features.

Coastal Plants

Select plants that thrive in coastal conditions and complement the seaside theme. Ornamental grasses, succulents, and beach daisies are excellent choices.

Incorporate plants with blue or silver foliage, such as lavender or sea holly, to echo the colors of the ocean. Tall grasses and bamboo can add privacy and a sense of movement as they sway in the breeze.

Water Features

Water features bring the soothing sound of the sea to your garden. A small pond, fountain, or waterfall can create a calming ambiance.

Decorate your garden with a decorative birdbath or a mini rock pool filled with aquatic plants and pebbles. These elements can add a sense of tranquility and enhance the coastal atmosphere.

Beach-Themed Lighting

Light up your garden with beach-themed lighting. String lights or fairy lights can create a magical ambiance in the evening.

Lanterns with a nautical design or solar-powered stake lights shaped like seashells or starfish can provide soft, ambient lighting. Tiki torches can also add a tropical touch.

Decorative Garden Accessories

Add decorative garden accessories to personalize your coastal garden. Install a weathered wooden sign with a beachy message, or create a garden sculpture using found objects like driftwood and shells.

A vintage surfboard or an old rowboat repurposed as a planter can make unique and playful additions.

Outdoor Entertaining Area

Create an outdoor entertaining area that embraces the coastal theme. Set up a dining table with seating for family and friends, and decorate with coastal tableware and linens.

A fire pit surrounded by comfortable seating can provide a cozy gathering spot for evenings spent outdoors. Don’t forget to add a few beach umbrellas or a pergola for shade during sunny days.

Final Thoughts on Beach Cottage Decorating Ideas With Coastal Charm

Decorating your home or beach cottage for the summer season is a perfect way to bring the coastal style into your home. By using natural elements, coastal colors, and various textures, you can create a fresh and inviting space that captures the feel of coastal living.

So, open your windows, enjoy the sunny summer days, and use some of these beach house decor ideas that will transform your home into a coastal haven you’ll love to call home.

If you have any questions or have a message for me, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below. And be sure to share this blog post link with anyone who may find these coastal-style decorating tips inspiring.

Until next time,

Happy Summer Decorating!

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A Stroll Thru Life – Simply2Moms – Our Southern Home – The Tattered Pew – Whispering Pines Homestead

Tuesday, June 6th

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Wednesday, June 7th

Worthing Court – Thrifty and Chic – The Stonybrook House – Decor To Adore – Chalking Up Success – She Gave It A Go

Thursday, June 8th

Shiplap and Shells – Pasha is Home – DIY Beautify – CitrineLiving – Thistle Key Lane – Country Road 407

Friday, June 9th

White Arrows Home – It All Started With Paint – Southern Crush at Home – Amy Sadler Designs