Ahoy, holiday decorators! Ready to make a splash with your Christmas decor this year? Let’s shellebrate the season by combining the breezy elegance of coastal living with the festive warmth of Christmas. Imagine your guests being greeted by the soothing colors of the sea, the textures of the beach, and the sparkle of holiday magic. Whether you’re a beach bum at heart or simply love the idea of a coastal retreat, these Christmas tablescapes will have you riding the wave of creativity and style. Here’s how to turn your dining table into a coastal holiday haven that’s shore to impress!

Coastal-Chic Holiday

Achieving a coastal-chic holiday look is easier than you might think. Start with breezy fabrics, woven textures, and seashells. These elements work surprisingly well with evergreens, mercury glass, and elegant china. Even if you don’t live by the seaside, you can find seashells at craft stores year-round to incorporate beach-inspired decor into your holiday table.

To add a personal touch, include favorite pieces from beach vacations. Keep the decor simple and casual—raw edges on fabrics can be left to fray slightly for a relaxed feel. Instead of a traditional table runner, use fresh evergreen branches and sprinkle small shells and sand dollars randomly over them. For a centerpiece, fill a large shell, basket, or silver bowl with mercury glass ornaments, sprigs of fresh greenery, and loosely-looped lengths of burlap ribbon. The result is a coastal tablescape that feels both festive and effortless.

Aqua-Themed

For an aqua-themed coastal tablescape, think of incorporating elements that evoke the tranquil colors of the sea. Start with a starfish napkin fold to bring a whimsical touch to each place setting. Use seashell candle holders to add a soft, beachy glow to the table. Blue wine glasses can create the perfect aqua ambiance, making your table look fresh and inviting.

Consider using table linens in shades of blue and turquoise, complemented by white or sandy beige plates. Scatter a few starfish and shells around the table for added texture and interest. This coastal tablescape captures the serene beauty of the ocean, making your holiday meal feel like a seaside retreat.

Beach-Themed

For those who love all things beach-related, a beach-themed tablescape is a perfect choice. Take inspiration from designer Chloe Crabtree, who created a stunning holiday table with driftwood sailboats made from found driftwood. She used white dinner plates, white salad plates, and white shells to serve up shrimp and cocktail sauce atop DIY seashell chargers. The variety of bottles and vases holding white tapers and tea lights adds a romantic glow to the table.

To recreate this look, start with a neutral tablecloth or runner and build up layers of beachy elements. Driftwood, seashells, and sand dollars can be artfully arranged to evoke the feel of a coastal escape. Incorporate touches of silver and white for a festive flair, and don’t forget the candlelight to add warmth and sparkle.

You can shop for some seashells here.

Fishnets and Starfish

If simplicity is your style but you still want to wow your family and guests, a fishnets and starfish-themed tablescape is an excellent choice. The centerpiece and accents for this look are straightforward yet striking. Use a fishnet as the base, draped across the center of the table. Add starfish decor, starfish-themed platters, and pastel blue napkins to complete the look.

This coastal tablescape idea is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist approach. The fishnet adds texture and interest, while the starfish and blue accents keep the theme cohesive and visually appealing. It’s a simple yet stunning way to bring a touch of the beach to your holiday table.

Sea Enamel Bowl Set here.

Nautical-Themed

A nautical-themed tablescape offers endless possibilities for creativity. Whether you prefer a light blue or navy-blue palette, the key is to mix and match elements that evoke the sea. Nautical-themed plates, navy and white striped napkins, and even yellow utensils can add contrast and a pop of color to your holiday decor.

Start with a crisp white tablecloth and layer on the blue accents. Use navy or light blue plates, and consider incorporating maritime symbols like anchors, ropes, or ship wheels. Yellow utensils can add a cheerful touch, breaking up the blue and adding a sunny vibe to the coastal tablescape. Finish off with a centerpiece of blue and white flowers, perhaps in a vase wrapped with rope for a nautical feel.

Tablescape Thoughts

Creating a coastal tablescape for Christmas is a delightful way to blend the serenity of the sea with the festive spirit of the holidays. Whether you choose a coastal-chic, aqua-themed, beach-themed, fishnets and starfish, or nautical-themed table, the key is to have fun and let your creativity flow. By incorporating natural elements, beachy textures, and festive touches, you can craft a holiday table that is as inviting as a day at the shore.

So, this holiday season, why not trade the snow for sand and bring a touch of the coast to your Christmas celebration? Your guests will be enchanted by the unique and beautiful coastal tablescapes, making your holiday gathering one to remember.