Coastal Summer Decorating: My Favorite Finds + How I Use Art to Brighten My Home

paula33freeman
May 26
4 min read

Updated: Jun 4

Coastal Summer Decorating Beige sofa with pillows and a gray blanket in a living room. A large ocean painting with turquoise water is on the white wall above. — Coastal Summer Decorating with Ocean Painting above Beige Sofa

Welcome summer! There’s something about the warmer days, longer light, and salty air that inspires a refresh. As a coastal artist, I love incorporating seaside charm into my home decor—whether it's through bright, breezy colors, natural textures, or pieces of my own artwork that bring joy to every room. Today I’m sharing how I style my space for summer, some of my favorite Amazon finds, and how you can bring that beachy vibe into your own home for some simple coastal summer decorating with just a few updates.

Start With a Coastal Color Palette

Think soft teals, sea foam green, crisp whites, sandy beige, and ocean blues. These colors instantly create a sense of calm and coastal charm. I use this palette not only in my paintings but also throughout my home in throw pillows, linens, and accessories.

Favorite Finds:

Anchor Your Space With Coastal Art

One of the easiest ways to refresh your home is by swapping out your artwork. I rotate in new seasonal prints or originals that bring in coastal scenes, playful beachwear, or vibrant summer florals.

Currently Featured Art:

👉 Shell Print- a soft blue and neutral print

👉 Sea Turtle with Bubble Print – calm and nature-inspired, ideal for bathrooms or entryways.

A painting of a turtle on a sandy beach with waves. A plant and two vases are on a shelf in the foreground, creating a serene mood. complete this Coastal Summer Decorating room — Coastal Summer Decorating with a Sea Turtle Painting by Paula Freeman Art

Tip: Pair these pieces with natural wood or whitewashed frames for that breezy coastal finish.

Coastal Summer Decoration with Function

Even practical items can be beautiful. I love bringing in things that are both decorative and functional—like a woven tray on the coffee table or coastal-themed lamp.

Amazon Coastal Picks:

Rattan Console Table
Linen White Mirror- Round Cornhusk Mirror
Blue and white Table Lamp

A cozy room with a round mirror, beige walls, lamp, black cabinet, vase- Coastal Summer Decorating — Round Cornhusk Mirror in linen white, Perfect addition to your Coastal Summer Decorating

Decorate With the Senses in Mind

Don’t forget the finishing touches—candles that smell like sea salt, textured rugs underfoot, or breezy white curtains to catch the summer light. Just like we change out the wreath on the front door, don’t be afraid to refresh the decor and scents in your home for the season. Summer is the perfect time to welcome something new and fun—think coral-patterned throw pillows, ocean-inspired wall art, or even a cheerful doormat. Small swaps can make a big impact and help your space feel like a relaxing, coastal retreat.

More Favorites:

Serena St. Barth Scented Candle
Blue and White Striped Ottoman with Wooden Base- I’ve completely fallen in love with this charming ottoman—striped in soft blue and white with a natural wood base—it’s the perfect mix of coastal style and whimsical detail.
Woven Scallop Jute Rug

Stylish entryway for Coastal Summer Decorating with a cane table, round mirror, and striped stool. Blue floral wallpaper; lamp, vase, and books add decor elements. — Blue and white striped stool is a fun addition to Coastal Summer Decorating

Make It Personal With Handmade Touches

Nothing makes a home feel more special than pieces you’ve created or collected over time. I always include a hand-painted shell, a beach treasure from a trip, or a small original painting on a shelf. One of my favorite ways to add meaning to a space is by framing something my kids have made—whether it’s a sweet drawing framed from years ago or a simple seashell craft we did together. These personal touches not only add charm but also tell the story of your family and the moments that matter most.

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Add a Touch of Whimsy

Summer decor should feel fun and lighthearted—and that’s where a little whimsy comes in. I like to include playful, unexpected pieces that make people smile. One of my favorite finds this season? A seashell-shaped purse that I’m not using as a handbag, but as a decorative piece styled on a side table! It brings just the right amount of charm and makes a great conversation starter. Think of how you can use whimsical coastal treasures—like a vintage buoy, oversized shell, or a little fringe on your umbrella—in new ways around your home.

Whimsy Favorites:

Whether you live near the water or just dream of coastal life, you can bring a little bit of the beach into your home this season. I hope this post gave you inspiration (and some fun shopping ideas!). If you’re curious to see how I style these pieces in real life, head to my Instagram where I share behind-the-scenes looks at my home, art, and new summer designs.

Let me know in the comments — what’s your favorite way to decorate for summer?

Framed art of white bikini on blue background, hung on wall. Set on a wooden shelf with white floral vase and yellow pampas grass vase; perfect for Coastal Summer Decorating. — Coastal Summer Decorating with Paula Freeman Fine Art Print of White Bikini on a shelf

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https://www.paulafreemanart.com/ Coastal Summer decorating with Fine Art Prints and commissions

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