The first step to achieving a coastal bedroom is choosing the perfect blue tones. The ocean is full of varied hues, from the lightest aqua to the deep navy of a stormy sea, so the possibilities for your bedroom’s palette are wide-ranging.

• Soft Aqua and Turquoise: These lighter blues mimic the colors of tropical seas and are perfect for creating a light, airy atmosphere. Aqua and turquoise evoke a sense of freshness and clarity, making them ideal for smaller spaces or rooms that lack natural light. They pair beautifully with white, sandy beige, or light driftwood finishes.

• Powder Blue: A soft, muted shade of blue that reflects the color of a clear sky, powder blue brings a peaceful, calm energy to a bedroom. It works well as a backdrop for other beach-inspired elements like nautical decor, beachy art, and textured linens.

• Navy and Deep Blues: For a more dramatic and sophisticated coastal vibe, deep navy and indigo create depth and grounding in the room. These darker blues mimic the deep ocean and can be paired with lighter tones to create contrast. Navy is perfect for creating a sense of intimacy, especially in larger bedrooms with plenty of natural light.

• Seafoam Green and Teal: These shades add a touch of green to blue, bringing to mind the colors of seaweed and shoreline water. They’re perfect for those who want a bit of variety in their coastal palette without straying too far from the theme.

To capture the full coastal vibe, integrate natural materials that echo the textures and colors of the beach. This will help ground your blue tones and enhance the coastal atmosphere.

• Wooden Furniture: Driftwood furniture, reclaimed wood dressers, or nightstands add warmth and texture, creating a rustic yet refined look. A wooden bed frame in a light or weathered finish will blend seamlessly with blue walls, evoking the feeling of beach cottages and seaside retreats.

• Woven Textures: Incorporating woven materials, like wicker or rattan, into furniture, baskets, and even light fixtures, gives a nod to the laid-back beach aesthetic. A woven rattan chair or light fixture will complement soft blues and create a relaxed atmosphere.

• Natural Fibers: Fabrics like linen, cotton, and jute are ideal for bedding, throw pillows, and curtains in a coastal-inspired bedroom. These materials are breathable and light, and they evoke the casual, natural beauty of a beach vacation. Linen sheets in a soft blue or neutral shade can add both texture and comfort to your bed.

• Stone and Coral Accents: For added texture, consider incorporating stone elements like marble lamps, coral sculptures, or driftwood mirrors. These natural accents not only complement the blue color palette but also bring the feel of the beach directly into your bedroom.

One of the most effective ways to create a serene, under-the-sea vibe in your bedroom is through thoughtful layering of different blue tones. Rather than choosing a single shade of blue, mix and match various shades to create depth and visual interest.

• Accent Walls: A feature wall painted in a deep navy or sea-foam green can anchor the room and create a bold focal point. Pair it with lighter blue tones on the other walls to maintain balance and keep the room from feeling too dark. This technique is particularly effective in larger bedrooms where you want to create a cozy, intimate space.

• Bedding and Pillows: Layering different shades of blue on your bedding can create an inviting, luxurious feel. A white duvet cover with navy throw blankets or pillowcases in varying shades of blue will add depth to your bed while maintaining a fresh, coastal look. Throw pillows in various textures, such as soft velvet, cotton, or linen, can provide tactile variety and add comfort to your space.

• Rugs and Curtains: A rug in a rich, ocean-inspired blue pattern or texture can anchor the space while adding warmth and style. Look for rugs that feature water-like patterns, subtle waves, or even nautical motifs. Pair these with light, airy curtains in a soft blue or off-white to keep the room feeling open and breezy.

No coastal bedroom would be complete without art and accessories that evoke the beauty of the sea. Think of artwork and decor as the final layer that brings your space together.

• Beach Photography and Prints: Large, framed prints of serene beachscapes, ocean waves, or underwater photography will instantly transport you to the coast. Look for pieces that feature blues, greens, and sandy neutrals to keep the overall aesthetic cohesive. Oversized art can also act as a focal point above the bed or along a main wall.

• Nautical Accents: Subtle nautical touches, like anchor wall decor, rope throw blankets, or driftwood-inspired picture frames, can add charm to your space without overwhelming the room. These elements contribute to the coastal feel without feeling kitschy or overly themed.

• Seashell and Coral Decor: Incorporating natural objects like seashells, starfish, or coral into your decor will help bring the beach indoors. Displaying these items in glass jars or shadow boxes on a shelf or tabletop gives the space an organic, lived-in feel. Consider using a large shell as a decorative bowl or a piece of driftwood as a unique headboard alternative.

• Glass Vases and Candleholders: To mimic the clarity of ocean water, use glass vases, candleholders, and jars filled with sea glass or sand. These subtle touches of texture and color can add a layer of refinement while maintaining the coastal theme.