For many homeowners, the kitchen is the most important room in the house.
As with any home project, it’s all about the details. Something as simple as color scheme or lighting could be the secret to creating a kitchen space that feels like a coastal getaway.
Think thematic interior design is a thing of the past? While heavy-handed decor is no longer in style, you can still create the beach-themed kitchen of your dreams without losing that contemporary atmosphere!
25 Beach Themed Kitchen Ideas
Quick Links
- Abstract Backsplash
- Rope Light Fixtures
- Tropical Foliage
- Ocean Blue Cabinetry
- Coastal Artwork
- Shiplap Walls
- Sandy Pink
- Shell Centerpiece
- Beach Signage
- Glass Tile
- Hamptons Beach House
- Wicker Lampshades
- Sea Green Cabinetry
- Miami Chic
- Beaded Chandelier
- Nautical Decor
- Dried Palm Leaves
- Island Green
- Seaside Farmhouse
- Vintage Cargo Light
- Moroccan Tile
- Stormy Modern
- Boho Shelving
- Captain’s Wheel
- Tropical Tools
- Giant Clam Shell
1. Abstract Backsplash
You could hang a piece of framed artwork in your kitchen. Or you could create a custom design within your existing backsplash tile.
This deceptively simple pattern calls to mind cresting ocean waves or windswept sand dunes. Regardless of what this abstract backsplash reminds you of, though, it’s undeniably beach-inspired!
2. Rope Light Fixtures
Themed decor does not need to be kitschy or overbearing! You can completely transform a room’s style just by changing one or two details.
These charming pendant lights add a nautical touch without distracting from the kitchen’s contemporary aesthetic. Pair rope light fixtures with distressed furniture or driftwood for a more rustic appearance.
3. Tropical Foliage
Beaches come in many different flavors. But if you want to recreate the look of a tropical island in your home, vibrant foliage is a must-have.
Many common houseplants are ideal for a beach-themed kitchen. Try decorating your space with compact varieties of fern, palm tree, monstera, elephant’s ear, bird-of-paradise, and bromeliad.
If you’re cursed with a black thumb, invest in high-quality silk plants instead (no one will know the difference from a distance!).
4. Ocean Blue Cabinetry
Color is a powerful tool in home design. You can even give your kitchen a beach-inspired aesthetic with little more than the right shade of blue.
These deep blue cabinets are a perfect example. Not only is the color reminiscent of the ocean’s waves but it also blends seamlessly into the rest of the kitchen.
5. Coastal Artwork
No, it’s not cheating to include thematic artwork in your beach-inspired kitchen! You can even use this idea to add a coastal theme to an otherwise minimalist space.
Framed photos are an easy way to communicate the inspiration for your interior design without unnecessary decor. However, other forms of artwork — posters, tapestries, prints, maps, etc. — also work exceptionally well.
6. Shiplap Walls
View this post on Instagram
Today, we tend to associate shiplap walls with farmhouse decor. But this material actually got its start in ship construction!
White shiplap is a simple way to add dimension to your kitchen walls without using a ton of different colors. You can even use a water-resistant shiplap instead of a tile backsplash. Avoid cluttering up your shiplap walls with decor — this paneling is decor all on its own.
7. Sandy Pink
It makes sense that most beach-themed kitchen ideas would include shades of blue. But if you’re looking for a more feminine approach, this sandy pink color might be the answer.
White and beige pair well with this color. You can use dried grasses, driftwood, coral, and shells sparingly throughout the space to drive home the beach theme.
Don’t worry about your kitchen decor not being true to life. After all, pink beaches really exist!
8. Shell Centerpiece
You might be afraid that using real shells in your kitchen design is too heavy-handed. While you shouldn’t go overboard (no pun intended!), there are several tasteful ways to use shells and coral as decor.
Avoid scattering small shells throughout your kitchen. Instead, pick one or two large statement pieces to serve as a centerpiece or display on a shelf. Or show off your personal shell collection in a classy vase or glass bowl.
9. Beach Signage
View this post on Instagram
Is including a beach sign in your kitchen decor an obvious choice? Yes. But that doesn’t make it any less effective.
Decorative beach signs are available in all different sizes, styles, colors, and materials. You can even order a custom sign that pays homage to your local beachfront. Incorporate the sign into a gallery wall or place it above your kitchen cabinetry.
10. Glass Tile
Backsplash tiles are highly functional — they protect your kitchen walls from stains and water damage. But your backsplash can also have a major impact on your kitchen design as a whole.
Glass tiles come in many different colors. This blue-green shade looks almost exactly like rippling water. It’s not hard to see why glass tiles work so well in a beach-inspired kitchen!
11. Hamptons Beach House
New England beaches, especially those in The Hamptons, have a unique aesthetic all their own. Adopting this style for your own kitchen is a wonderful way to give your coastal design a hint of luxury.
This look is largely made up of bright white and natural wood. Include sea-green accents throughout your kitchen to emphasize the beachy theme. Nautical-inspired details like light fixtures and countertop decor will complete the look.
12. Wicker Lampshades
View this post on Instagram
Weathered beaches are the norm in many climates. Wicker can give your beachy kitchen a mature, moody aesthetic.
These neutral light fixtures are a subtle way to give your kitchen a coastal theme. Coordinating dried grasses can also be displayed in a decorative vase. This idea can easily be scaled up or down to suit any space.
13. Sea Green Cabinetry
Again, color is a powerful tool when honing the theme of any living space. This sea green kitchen design is another great example of how the right shade of blue-green can give your home a beachy aesthetic.
This look is incredibly simple and versatile. Adding small details like coastal artwork or driftwood decor is all it would take to really get your beachy theme across.
14. Miami Chic
Not all beach-themed decor consists of natural materials and organic shapes. For a kitchen that resembles a luxury condo overlooking Miami Beach, you’ll want to utilize sleek, modern elements.
The only nautical item in this entire design is a coral-inspired sculpture on the counter. Otherwise, it’s all about maintaining a clean aesthetic and emphasizing the stunning ocean view.
15. Beaded Chandelier
View this post on Instagram
A beaded chandelier might not have any direct connection to beachside living. But you can’t deny that this unique lighting solution fits in perfectly with tropical kitchen decor. Hang this head-turning fixture over your kitchen island or formal dining room table.
If you can’t find a light fixture that suits your personal taste or budget, don’t worry. It’s possible to DIY your own wooden bead chandelier with a few basic supplies.
16. Nautical Decor
Subtlety isn’t always enough to achieve the room of your dreams. Placing a few nautical items on your countertop, kitchen shelves, or above your cabinets could be exactly what you’re missing.
Mix vintage bottles, shells, and boat-themed decor in with your everyday dishes and dry goods. Less is almost always more, so don’t be afraid to cull items you aren’t absolutely in love with.
17. Dried Palm Leaves
Shells and coral are not the only organic items that conjure the sights and sounds of the oceanside. Decorating your kitchen with dried palm leaves can be a wonderful way to drive home your beachy theme.
Dried palm leaves are affordable and last forever if well-cared for. Utilize this foliage in your countertop bouquets, dining room centerpieces, or as standalone decor throughout the space.
18. Island Green
Green is another great alternative to an all-blue color scheme! Rather than bringing to mind the water, the vibrant green decor will make your kitchen feel like an island getaway.
This beautiful shade of green is perfectly complemented by the natural wood used throughout this design. Take note of the eclectic light fixture — driftwood can be included in your beach-themed kitchen in many different ways.
19. Seaside Farmhouse
Details like shiplap walls and cast iron fixtures are trademarks of farmhouse decor. But these elements also look right at home in a contemporary beach-themed kitchen.
This kitchen design is overwhelmingly neutral. All it would take is some nautical wall art or coral to transform this space into a bonafide beach house.
20. Vintage Cargo Light
View this post on Instagram
These stylish light fixtures were once used in the cargo holds of seafaring vessels. So it’s only natural to gravitate towards this statement lighting for your beach-themed kitchen.
Authentic cargo lights are often reclaimed from retired or remodeled ships. However, replicas look just as nice and are much easier to track down. Swap out old cabinet hardware and other fixtures to match your new lights.
21. Moroccan Tile
A Moroccan backsplash is a unique alternative to traditional subway tile. It can also give your kitchen a beach-themed aesthetic reminiscent of the Mediterranean region!
Moroccan tile comes in many different patterns and colorways. In particular, this turquoise tile is the perfect stand-in for salty ocean water. The use of warm natural wood countertops and potted plants helps complete this stylish kitchen design.
22. Stormy Modern
These blue-gray cabinets are yet another wonderful example of how color choice can determine the overall mood of your kitchen design.
These homeowners have paired their blue-gray cabinetry with a vase of tropical bird-of-paradise flowers. However, this shade of blue would pair just as beautifully with vintage cargo lighting, coral statuettes, and other nautical elements.
23. Boho Shelving
This Bohemian-style shelving might not immediately jump out as “beachy.” But take a closer look and you’ll see how the inclusion of tropical houseplants and dried palm leaves give this storage solution a coastal vibe.
Stick to a natural color scheme when selecting and filling your open kitchen shelving. Wood shelving is ideal!
24. Captain’s Wheel
View this post on Instagram
Are you worried your beach-inspired kitchen will look cheesy? This wall clock is just one example of how ocean-themed decor can be timeless and classy.
Captain’s wheels are a classic element of nautical design that can be utilized in subtle (and, yes, some not-so-subtle!) ways. If an analog clock isn’t a must-have for your own kitchen, look for a picture frame, hanging mirror, or other items shaped like a captain’s wheel.
25. Tropical Tools
When redesigning any living space, it’s easy to get swept up in the purely decorative elements. But the best interiors also take into account everyday items and how they fit into the design as a whole.
Seemingly insignificant items like cocktail shakers or measuring cups can be swapped out for versions that suit your kitchen aesthetic. Investing in thematic kitchen tools, dishes, and will ensure your final design looks stylish and cohesive.
26. Giant Clam Shell
View this post on Instagram
Designing a beachy kitchen with minimal decor often means thinking big… literally. A giant clam shell works like any other countertop bowl. Use it to store your favorite fresh fruit or as a catch-all key tray. Or fill the shell with a shallow layer of soil to grow succulents.
You don’t have to hunt down a real giant clamshell to achieve this look! Sculpted replicas are readily available for those who don’t want or are unable to source an authentic shell for their kitchen decor.