Coastal Nursery Decor: How to Create a Serene Beachy Space for Your Baby

Last Updated on 02/20/2025 by Nell Marie

Decorating a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new baby, and choosing a coastal theme brings a sense of calm, relaxation, and timeless beauty to the space.

A coastal nursery combines soft colors, natural textures, and ocean-inspired accents to create a serene retreat for both you and your little one.

Even if you don’t live near the beach, you can still bring the essence of the ocean into your baby’s room with thoughtful design choices.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to create the perfect coastal-inspired nursery, from color palettes to decor ideas and furniture selection.

More Nursery Ideas:

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• 14 Sweet Baby Room Themes
• 15 Grandmillennial Nursery Ideas & Inspo
• 10 Steps for Whimsical Nursery Rooms (Plus Inspiration)

Coastal Nursery Design Ideas

I love the airy, beachy, relaxed feeling of coastal design, so it makes perfect sense to design a nursery with a coastal theme!

I’ll admit, before researching this nursery idea, I’d not thought much of a coastal beachy theme but now that I’ve discovered this type of nursery I can’t get enough! It’s beyond a typical nautical theme and is more light, airy, and like you’re on the beach.

Let’s check out the ideas below!

Free Vintage Coastal Themed Art

Before we get to the tips, inspo, and recommendations, how about some free art for your coastal themed nursery?

Simply click the download here button underneath the art you’d like to print yourself and download it to your computer. Simple as that.

Important to Note

• Click the “download here” button of the printable(s) you would like. It’ll open a new page where you’ll be directed to Google Drive. You’ll then be able to click to download.
• Once downloaded to your computer, you’ll then be able to either print from your own home printer or send it off to a professional print lab. I like Shutterfly.com.
• Every printable in this article is 8×10 in size.
• No physical item is shipped, this is a free digital download.
• Once printed, simply frame it, hang it, and enjoy it!

Beach near Etretat, c. 1872

This piece is from an oil on canvas by Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot (artist) French, 1796 – 1875 turned into a printable JPG file for your printing pleasure.

The size is 5×7 inches.

Second Beach, Newport, c. 1878/1880

This piece is from an oil on canvas by Worthington Whittredge (artist) American, 1820 – 1910 turned into a printable JPG file for your printing pleasure.

The size is 5×7 inches.

Revere Beach, c. 1896

This piece is watercolor over graphite by Maurice Prendergast (artist) American, 1858 – 1924 turned into a printable JPG file for your printing pleasure.

This printable is 8×10 in size.

Children Playing on the Beach, 1884

This piece is an oil on canvas by Mary Cassatt (artist) American, 1844 – 1926 turned into a printable JPG file for your printing pleasure.

The printable is an 8×10.

Choosing the Perfect Coastal Color Palette

The foundation of any beautifully designed nursery starts with the color palette. A coastal nursery should feel airy and peaceful, mimicking the natural beauty of the ocean, sky, and sand.

Best Coastal Colors for a Nursery

Soft Blues and Seafoam Greens

These colors instantly bring to mind gentle ocean waves and the peacefulness of the beach.

Sandy Beige and Warm Whites

Earthy tones inspired by driftwood, sand, and seashells help create a warm, inviting feel.

Light Grays and Soft Pastels

Subtle pastel tones like blush pink, light lavender, or buttery yellow can complement the coastal theme beautifully without overpowering the space.

If you prefer a modern coastal look, you can keep the base colors neutral and add coastal accents with furniture and decor.

For a more vibrant, tropical-inspired coastal nursery, mix in pops of coral, teal, or sea glass green.

Walls and Flooring: Setting the Foundation

Your nursery walls and flooring play a huge role in establishing the overall feel of the space. There are many ways to create a coastal backdrop beyond just paint colors.

Coastal Wall Ideas

Classic Light Blue or White Paint

A soft blue or white wall color instantly sets a breezy, coastal tone. Consider using an eggshell or matte finish for a subtle, sophisticated look.

Shiplap or Beadboard Paneling

White or light-colored shiplap creates a nautical, cottage-style vibe, perfect for a coastal nursery.

Ocean-Inspired Wallpaper – Consider a wallpaper with gentle wave patterns, seashells, or watercolor sea creatures to add personality without overwhelming the space.

Murals or Wall Decals – If you want to get creative, a painted mural of the ocean, lighthouses, or an underwater scene can make a stunning focal point. Peel-and-stick decals featuring sea creatures or sailboats are an easy alternative.

Flooring Choices

For flooring, natural wood or light-colored laminate works beautifully in a coastal nursery.

If you already have carpet, a large woven jute or sea grass rug can help add that beachy texture while keeping the space cozy.

Soft, plush rugs in oceanic hues like blue or green can also make the room feel more inviting.

Essential Coastal Nursery Decor Elements

Once your walls and flooring are set, it’s time to bring in the decor that will truly make your baby’s room feel like a seaside sanctuary.

Coastal-Inspired Decor Ideas

Nautical and Ocean-Themed Wall Art

Framed watercolor prints of seashells, sailboats, or ocean waves add a soothing touch. A simple wooden sign with a beachy quote like “Dream Big, Little Sailor” or “You Are My Sunshine” fits perfectly.

Light and Breezy Fabrics

Choose lightweight linen or cotton curtains in white, beige, or soft blue to keep the space airy. Swaddle blankets and crib sheets with subtle ocean-themed prints (whales, seashells, or waves) enhance the theme.

Natural Textures

Incorporate woven baskets, rattan light fixtures, or driftwood-style decor to add warmth and an organic feel to the nursery.

Cozy and Soft Lighting

Avoid harsh lighting and opt for soft-glow lamps or a rattan pendant light. A table lamp with a seashell base or a nightlight shaped like a lighthouse adds charm.

Seaside Mobile

A crib mobile featuring sea creatures, sailboats, or starfish makes a delightful addition while keeping your baby entertained.

Furniture Choices for a Coastal Vibe

Furniture plays a big role in making your nursery functional and aesthetically pleasing. Look for pieces that match the airy, relaxed feel of the coastal theme.

Coastal Nursery Furniture Ideas

Crib in White or Light Wood

A simple, classic crib in whitewashed wood or a natural oak finish keeps the room looking bright and breezy.

Distressed or Weathered Dresser

A white-washed or lightly distressed dresser doubles as a changing table and adds character.

Rocking Chair or Glider

A comfortable glider with soft cushions in a neutral or oceanic shade makes late-night feedings more relaxing.

Bookshelves or Floating Shelves

Display coastal-themed books and beachy decor on floating shelves for an extra touch of charm.

Wicker or Rattan Storage Baskets

These are great for storing toys, blankets, and diapers while adding a natural coastal element.

Bringing in Personalized Touches

Adding personal touches makes your baby’s nursery feel even more special.

Consider these ideas:

Personalized Wooden Name Sign

A rustic wooden sign with your baby’s name in cursive or block letters fits beautifully in a coastal nursery.

Handmade Seashell Shadow Box

Collect and display small seashells in a shadow box as a sentimental keepsake.

Custom Ocean-Themed Growth Chart

Track your baby’s growth on a beach-themed height chart decorated with waves, sailboats, or dolphins.

Storage and Organization Tips for a Coastal Nursery

Even the most beautifully decorated nursery needs to be practical and organized. Here are some storage tips to keep the space functional:

Use Multi-Purpose Furniture

A dresser that doubles as a changing table saves space while keeping essentials within reach.

Decorative Storage Bins

Woven baskets or fabric bins with oceanic patterns keep toys, clothes, and blankets neatly stored.

Over-the-Door Hanging Organizers

These are perfect for small nurseries and can store diapers, wipes, and baby essentials.

Wall Hooks for Hanging

Use nautical-style hooks to hang baby towels, blankets, or even tiny hats.

Final Touches to Complete the Look

Once the big pieces are in place, small decorative accents bring everything together. Consider adding:

• A soft plush whale or octopus stuffed animal for a cuddly touch.
• A driftwood-style picture frame with a family beach photo.
• A coastal-themed baby blanket draped over the rocking chair.
• A tiny sailboat figurine on a shelf as a sweet finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

Designing a coastal nursery is a fun and rewarding project that creates a peaceful space for your baby to grow.

By focusing on a soft color palette, natural textures, ocean-inspired decor, and cozy furniture, you can transform your nursery into a seaside retreat.

Whether you love the crisp look of a nautical-inspired space or the relaxed feel of a beach cottage, there are endless ways to bring a touch of the ocean into your baby’s room.

With the right decor and thoughtful details, your little one’s nursery will feel like a dreamy coastal escape, perfect for creating beautiful memories together.