There’s something special about a coastal garden. Maybe it’s the salty breeze, or the easygoing pace that makes you want to kick off your shoes and relax.
I’ve always loved that laid-back beach vibe, and over time I’ve found plenty of ways to bring it home—even if you’re nowhere near the sea.
From breezy seating areas to rugged beachgrass planting, these ideas will help you turn your backyard into a little slice of coastal heaven.
Seating & Lounge Areas
1. Add Adirondack Chairs for That Classic Beach Look
You can’t go wrong with Adirondack chairs. They’ve got that unmistakable beach house silhouette and wide arms that are just right for a drink. I like grouping a few around a fire pit or placing them to face a view. They instantly make the space feel relaxed and welcoming.
2. Hang a Hammock or Swing Chair
There’s nothing quite like swaying in a hammock with a book and a cold drink. A hanging chair gives a similar effect but takes up less room. Either one brings a tropical, slow-paced feel to the garden—and they’re brilliant for an afternoon snooze.
3. Create a Lounge Area with an Outdoor Daybed
If sunbathing’s your thing, you’ll love a proper lounge setup. I added an outdoor daybed last year and it’s now the most-used bit of the garden. Choose something weatherproof with thick cushions and you’ll feel like you’re at a resort.
4. Use Teak or Wicker Furniture
Wicker and teak both fit the coastal vibe perfectly. Teak weathers beautifully, and wicker has that lightweight, beachy look. Pair either with soft-toned cushions—whites, creams, or pale blues—and you’re halfway to a seaside veranda.
5. Build In Bench Seating
If you’re short on space, built-in benches are a clever trick. I tucked one into a corner and added coastal-colored cushions—it’s great for hosting friends or curling up solo with a morning coffee.
Landscaping & Plants
6. Grow Drought-Resistant Coastal Plants
Plants like sea oats, lavender, and dune grass thrive in coastal gardens. They’re hardy, fuss-free, and look lovely swaying in the breeze. I love how natural they feel—no perfect borders, just soft movement and texture.
7. Add Palm Trees or Tropical Foliage
If your climate allows, palms bring instant holiday vibes. Even just one or two in a sunny spot makes a huge difference. If you’re further north, go for potted palms and bring them inside over winter.
8. Decorate with Driftwood
Driftwood is one of my favorite coastal accents. It’s great as a sculptural piece, a plant base, or even edging for a bed. The weathered texture adds loads of character and it looks right at home in a breezy backyard.
9. Plant Raised Beachgrass Beds
Tall beachgrasses add movement and a bit of privacy too. I planted mine along the fence and it feels like you’re in the dunes. Choose native ornamental grasses and let them grow wild.
10. Lay Gravel or Sand Paths
Instead of paving, try sand or fine gravel. It looks natural and softens the whole garden. I’ve used gravel to link different zones, and it gives a beachy crunch underfoot—plus, no mowing!
Decking & Flooring
11. Choose Weathered Wood Decking
A sun-faded timber deck feels just right in a coastal space. I went for boards with a slightly greyed finish—it looks like it’s been gently aged by salt and sunshine, even if it hasn’t.
12. Install a Stone or Paver Patio
Natural stone works beautifully in coastal gardens. Go for pale, sandy tones if you want that sun-bleached look. They’re practical too—cool underfoot and easy to keep clean.
13. Build Boardwalk-Style Paths
I built a wooden path to link the deck to the lawn, and it gives off that boardwalk-by-the-sea charm. It’s especially nice in longer gardens where you want to guide the eye and create a relaxed walk-through feel.
14. Use Shell or Crushed Gravel as Ground Cover
I’ve used crushed shells in a few spots and they look brilliant—light, bright, and totally beachy. They’re perfect around plants or as mulch in beds and require very little upkeep.
Water Features
15. Install a Saltwater Pool
If you want a bit of luxury, a saltwater pool is the closest you’ll get to swimming in the sea. The water’s softer on your skin and there’s less chlorine smell. It’s a splurge—but a dreamy one.
16. Add a Coastal-Inspired Fountain
Even a small fountain makes a difference. I chose one with natural stone and sea glass—just the trick for that soothing trickle of water in the background. It makes the garden feel more serene.
17. Build an Outdoor Shower
There’s something fun and freeing about an outdoor shower. It’s handy if you’ve got a pool—or muddy dogs! I built one with a simple timber screen and added a few pebbles at the base for drainage.
18. Dig a Tide Pool or Pond
A shallow pond with stones and plants brings wildlife and a coastal feel. I’ve seen people add tiny tide pool-style areas with sea-like textures. It’s a lovely way to blend nature into your space.
Decor & Accents
19. Hang String Lights or Lanterns
In the evening, there’s nothing better than soft lights. I’ve strung warm white fairy lights between trees and placed solar lanterns along my paths—they turn the garden into a cozy retreat after sunset.
20. Decorate with Seashells and Rope
I keep a collection of shells and weathered rope for garden decor. I’ve used them in planters, on tables, and even hanging from hooks. It’s subtle, but it makes the space feel more seaside-y.
21. Use Nautical Signs or Artwork
If you like a bit of fun, wooden signs with beach quotes or old boat markers make lovely accents. I’ve hung one near the bar area, and it always gets comments.
22. Build a Fire Pit with Coastal Stones
A fire pit surrounded by natural stone gives off big beach bonfire energy. I use mine all through spring and autumn—there’s nothing better than toasting marshmallows under the stars.
23. Set Up an Outdoor Bar or Tiki Hut
Even a small bar setup feels tropical. I made mine from reclaimed wood, added a few stools, and strung up lights. It’s ideal for drinks with friends or mixing a sunset cocktail.
Shade & Structures
24. Add Thatched Umbrellas or a Pergola
For that beach resort look, try a thatched parasol or breezy pergola. I built a simple timber pergola and draped it with a white outdoor curtain—it flaps in the breeze like sails.
25. Install Sail Shades for a Modern Look
Sail shades are a smart and stylish way to add shade. They give that chic beach club vibe and are brilliant for dining areas. I chose a soft grey one—it blends in and adds just enough drama.
🌊 Clive’s Tips for a Coastal-Inspired Garden
🏖️ Don’t go overboard on the theme – A few subtle nods to the seaside (like driftwood, grasses, and a bit of rope detail) feel more natural than turning the whole garden into a pirate ship. Less is more when it comes to coastal style.
🌾 Think texture, not color – Coastal gardens are all about soft movement and natural materials. Stick to weathered wood, loose gravel, and wispy plants. They create that relaxed, windswept look without needing bold colors.
🌿 Choose hardy, low-maintenance plants – Look for plants that don’t mind wind or a bit of drought. I’ve had great success with grasses, lavender, and succulents—they’re tough, beautiful, and need hardly any fuss.
💡 Lighting is everything – String lights or lanterns really make a difference. They’re cheap, easy to install, and turn your garden into a magical space after dark.
🍹 Make it a place to relax – At the end of the day, a coastal garden should feel like a holiday spot. Add a comfy seat, some shade, and your favorite drink—and you’ve nailed it.
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