A woman reading a book on a covered patio with a coastal view. Her feet are on a earth tone table with lanterns  facing an outdoor fireplace.

When you think of a paradise, what comes to mind? Perhaps it is a sandy beach with clear turquoise blue water. The sound of the waves rolling onshore and the salty smell of the ocean in the air. A place to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. Why not create a coastal style outdoor reading nook where you can enjoy all the beauty of Mother Nature while diving into your favorite literary works?

Complete with seashells, light airy furniture pieces, and greenery. So, let’s dive in and design the perfect outdoor reading nook that brings coastal paradise to your doorstep.

Choose the Perfect Spot

A simple coastal style reading nook featuring decor with lighthouses as a lamp and art. The covered space is lit with string lights has one small table and a comfortable chair.

Before you start gathering your beachy decor and furniture pieces, you’ll need to find the perfect spot in your yard. Look for a spot that offers a serene ambiance without too much direct sunlight. The ideal spot would be a cozy garden corner or covered patio with lots of soft morning light and afternoon shade from trees or awnings.

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If you don’t already have a spot in mind, think about the area of your yard that receives the most shade, and where you feel most comfortable and relaxed.

Bring in Some Colorful Coastal Furniture

An outdoor seating area using a coastal style color palette of shades of light blue, wood, and seafoam white. Two chairs, a couch and round table with an orchid on a stone patio.

After selecting the right location, the next step is to choose some comfortable seating. An outdoor cushioned bench or comfortable lounge chair in navy blue or white color can create a relaxing coastal vibe.

Make sure to choose seating that is weather resistant, so it can withstand the elements.

Find more inspiration: 10 Tips to Creating Your Dream Outdoor Reading Nook

Invest in some sand-colored furniture pieces, like a rattan sofa, that will instantly add a beach vibe to your space. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different furniture pieces to create a cozy atmosphere.

Best Choice Products 7-Piece Modular Outdoor Sectional Wicker Patio Furniture Conversation Sofa

Add some colorful throw pillows with beachy motifs to your lounging areas.

A covered balcony featuring beach decor including a blue and white hammock chair with pillow and a small lighthouse lamp for reading.

If you live by the seashore, invest in weather-resistant materials. Make sure to invest in waterproof and weather-resistant materials. It is imperative to protect your furniture and decor from the harsh beach elements.

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The salty beach air and humidity can corrode metal, fade color, and wear out fabrics. Invest in weather-resistant materials like teak wood, resin wicker, and rust-proof metal that can withstand the salty air.

Which Plants Work In A Coastal Style Space?

A variety plants, cacti, and succulents in pots suitable for a seaside themed reading nook.

Look for plants that evoke a coastal vibe, such as succulents with unique textures or tall, dramatic plants that sway in the breeze. Think about both the colors and the shapes of the plants to create an immersive atmosphere. Wispy coastal grasses can be great options, as well as flowers like hydrangeas or coralbells.

Fancifully woven bamboo on a small water and gravel glass container in a peaceful  neutral space.

And if you can’t resist a touch of whimsy, consider incorporating small potted cacti or driftwood accents. Dried or faux plant materials are also an option. The options are endless, but carefully selecting each plant with intention will ultimately lead to a space that beckons you to curl up with a good book and let your worries drift away.

Potted plants near a sunny window with a metal lantern.

You can use potted, hanging, or wall-mounted planters to create a lush and inviting reading nook. Not only do plants add to the aesthetic appeal, but they also purify the air around you, making your reading experience more refreshing.

Create A Patio Oasis Using Potted Plants For Privacy

Few plants for coastal style inspiration

A yucca plant in a white pot.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Yucca

Snake Plant

Orchids

Majesty Palm Tree

Bamboo

Birds Nest Fern

Peace Lily Spathiphyllum

Umbrella Tree

Succulents

Cactus

Lavender

Ostrich Fern

Clumping Grasses

Rosemary

Have a dark corner that needs to be filled? Read Best Faux Plant Privacy Screens For Fast Privacy.

Accessorize with Beachy Decor

Coastal theme fabric featuring a light blue background, seashells in shades of pink, seaweed and green plants, and detailed while peace lily flowers.

The beauty of creating a seaside themed outdoor reading nook is the ability to incorporate coastal decor into your space. You can accessorize with elements such as seashells, beach-themed wall art, lanterns, and other nautical details that bring an ocean-inspired charm to your reading nook.

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You can even add a beach umbrella for an added California-cool flair.

Three throw pillows in a seaside color palette of white and light blue.

A few touches of beachy decor can make a huge difference in transforming your outdoor reading nook into a coastal paradise.

A nature sound machine is the ultimate addition to your reading space. Studies have shown that nature sounds can help us relax and improve mental health. Learn more here:

The short-term effects of recorded ocean sound with and without alpha frequency binaural beats on tinnitus perception

Light it Up

String light above a garden sitting area.

A cozy reading nook isn’t complete without proper lighting. As the sun goes down, string lights or hanging lanterns will help illuminate your space and set the mood. You can use solar-powered string lights to light up your space without increasing your electricity bill.

Moreover, they provide a soothing ambiance that contributes to a perfect reading environment. Avoid using bright lights that can spoil the mood.

Visit public gardens to find design inspiration for your reading nook.

Combine your love for the ocean, books, and gardening. The perfect reading nook should be a calm and serene place where you can dive into your favorite books and unwind after a long day.

A temporary seaside themed sitting area consisting with blue and white blankets, pillows and beachy accessories.

Creating a reading nook with a coastal ambiance can transport you to a relaxing oceanfront retreat right in your backyard. From adding colorful furniture pieces to accessorizing with beachy decor, you have plenty of design options to choose from to suit your style. With these simple tips, you can create the perfect outdoor reading nook that brings the coastal paradise to your doorstep.

Happy reading!