The coastal look has long captivated travelers with its promise of ease, lightness, and barefoot luxury. For vacation rental owners, curating this feeling isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an emotional connection that inspires bookings and repeat stays.
The good news? You don’t need an oceanfront mansion or an endless budget to achieve it. With expert choices—focused on light textures, organic materials, and strategic accents—you can craft a breezy, elevated space that feels genuinely luxurious yet attainable. Here’s how to bring the magic of the coast into your STR property, beautifully and affordably.
1. Set the Mood with an Authentic Coastal Palette
A true coastal space whispers serenity through its colors. It’s not about heavy nautical themes, but about interpreting the natural landscape—sky, sea, sand, and sunlight.
Base colors: Start with crisp whites, soft creams, and sandy beiges for walls and large furniture.
Accent colors: Layer in muted tones like seafoam green, driftwood gray, ocean blue, or pale aqua sparingly through textiles or art.
Rule of thumb: 70% neutral, 20% muted coastal tones, 10% accent color for depth.
🎨 Pro Tip: Opt for matte or eggshell paint finishes to enhance the soft, sun-washed effect.
2. Invest in Light, Natural Materials
The soul of coastal interiors lies in materials that feel alive—pieces that celebrate imperfection, texture, and authenticity.
Furniture: Prioritize unfinished or whitewashed woods (like birch, pine, or reclaimed driftwood). Avoid glossy finishes.
Rugs: Choose flatweave jute, sisal, or seagrass for subtle texture underfoot.
Fabrics: Layer in breathable, natural fibers—linen slipcovers, cotton throws, gauzy sheer curtains.
🌿 Pro Tip: If real rattan or wicker furniture is too pricey, opt for resin-wicker blends—they mimic the look, withstand humidity, and cost less.
3. Maximize Light — and the Illusion of Space
Coastal homes feel expansive not because of size, but because of how they dance with light.
Window treatments: Trade heavy blackout curtains for linen sheers or cotton drapery that sways in the breeze.
Mirrors: Hang oversized mirrors opposite windows to double natural light and create the illusion of openness.
Lighting: Choose fixtures in materials like woven bamboo, white ceramic, or brushed nickel to keep the palette cohesive.
💡 Pro Tip: Add dimmer switches. Nothing says “sunset by the beach” like soft, customizable lighting.
4. Edit Accessories with an Expert Eye
Resist the urge to over-theme. True coastal style is about restraint and curation, not filling every corner with shells.
Art: Choose oversized, minimalist seascapes, abstract watercolor paintings, or black-and-white coastal photography.
Accent décor: Use touches like woven baskets, hand-thrown pottery, or driftwood sculptures for understated nods to nature.
Textiles: Incorporate tonal, tactile layers—think nubby linen pillows, knitted throws, vintage kantha quilts.
🐚 Pro Tip: If you include ocean references, keep them sophisticated—a single oversized coral sculpture or antique nautical chart, not a cluster of novelty items.
5. Create Breezy Indoor-Outdoor Connections
Guests crave that “live outside” feeling coastal homes are known for—whether you’re oceanfront or not.
Outdoor spaces: Use Adirondack chairs, whitewashed bistro sets, or hanging hammocks.
Textures: Echo indoor elements—use outdoor-friendly wicker, teak, or linen-textured cushions.
Details: Layer in string lights, portable lanterns, or woven mats to create cozy outdoor moments.
🌴 Pro Tip: A simple olive tree in a woven basket by the front door or patio can dramatically elevate curb appeal—and photos.
Curating a stunning coastal getaway is not about themed décor or expensive makeovers—it’s about authentic, thoughtful layering. By mastering light, texture, color, and restraint, you can create a vacation rental that feels like a serene escape, even before guests dip their toes in the sand.
Small, strategic upgrades—like a linen slipcover, a driftwood mirror, or jute accents—invite guests into a world of effortless comfort and barefoot luxury. And that emotional connection? It’s what keeps them coming back, season after season.
