Missing being by the beach this festive season? There’s no reason why you can’t bring a touch of coastal charm to your own home this Christmas! Whether you’re dreaming of waves lapping at the shore or reminiscing about past holidays with us, these festive decorating ideas will help you create a seaside-inspired grotto full of wintery sparkle. 

Create a Coastal-Inspired Tree

Transform your Christmas tree into a seaside masterpiece with oceanic ornaments and natural textures:

• Seashells and Starfish: Add real or faux seashells, painted white or gold, for a nautical touch
• Beachy Blues: Use decorations in shades of turquoise, navy and white to mimic the ocean’s palette
• Rustic Ribbons: Wrap your tree in burlap or rope-style garlands to bring a hint of the seaside into your living room

Use Natural Elements with a Festive Twist

Nature is a key element to both coastal and traditional holiday décor. Combine the two for a unique seasonal look:

• Gather driftwood pieces and arrange them as a centrepiece, adding fairy lights and small baubles for a touch of festivity. You could even get really crafty and construct a mini Christmas tree!
• Incorporate pinecones, sprigs of holly and evergreen branches weaving them into wreaths or garlands with subtle pops of seaside-inspired colours
• Fill clear jars with sand and candles, adding a hint of glitter for a frosted effect

Brighten Up with Coastal Lights

Twinkling lights bring instant holiday cheer and soft lighting echoes the relaxing ambiance of the coast:

• String warm white fairy lights around windows, mantels or mirrors to mimic the glow of a lighthouse on a chilly winter’s night
• Use lanterns filled with candles or battery-operated lights for a cosy, beach-hut aesthetic
• Incorporate LED lights shaped like stars, seahorses or shells for a playful festive feel

Set the Table for a Festive Feast

Your dining area can be transformed into a festive seaside scene with just a few touches:

• Use a white or pale blue tablecloth as a base, layered with gold or silver accents for a frosty, festive look
• Place small ornaments like miniature lighthouses or anchors, alongside traditional crackers for a unique tablescape
• Add name cards or napkin rings adorned with tiny shells or starfish to remind your guests of the coast

Don’t Forget the Outside! 

The entrance to your home can also make a festive statement:

• Create a wreath adorned with seashells, starfish or even small pieces of driftwood
• Line your porch or garden path with lanterns to light the way for holiday visitors
• Add some festive greenery to planters, tying them with bows in shimmering blues or silvers

 

While we miss welcoming you to our parks over the winter months, we hope these tips inspire you to bring the magic of the coast into your home this holiday season, and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to get a Waterside holiday for your gift this year!