DIY Beach House Decor Ideas That Cost Under $50 Each
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Image: Southport Studios/Celeste Monroe, Southport, NC
Did you know that you can transform your beach house into a relaxed retreat without spending a fortune?
In fact, it’s easier than you think. With just a little creativity and some budget-friendly materials, you can bring the serene vibe of the beach into your home and all for under $50.
No need for tacky knick-knacks or overwhelming beach themes; just simple, elegant touches that evoke the spirit of the sea.
These easy DIY coastal decor ideas will help you style your home with sophistication and ease, using natural textures and subtle design elements.
Whether you're looking for a weekend project or a way to refresh your space on a budget, these top three ideas will create a serene, beach-inspired atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Weathered Wood Gallery Wall
The Idea: If you're looking to bring the beach into your home without the obvious seashells and sand, this weathered wood gallery wall is the perfect solution.
Inspired by driftwood, but with a touch of sophistication, this wall decor captures the laid-back vibe of coastal living. It adds texture and depth to your space while maintaining an elegant, timeless aesthetic that can complement any room; whether it’s your living room, entryway, or even your bedroom.
Image: Aurora East Photography/Claire Upton, Topsail Beach, NC
How to Recreate It
Prepare the Wood:
Begin with a set of pine boards (1x8 inches, varying lengths for visual interest). To achieve that worn, weathered look, use a combination of gray wood stain and white chalk paint. Lightly apply the gray stain to mimic the look of aged driftwood, and then layer the white paint on top. Once dry, sand the edges for a more natural, rough texture.
Add Rope Accents (Optional):
The rope can give this piece a nautical yet stylish edge. Measure and cut your natural jute rope to the desired lengths. Tightly wrap the rope around the top or bottom edges of the wood planks, securing it with hot glue or nails. The result will be a clean, subtle nod to the beach without going overboard.
Arrange Your Planks:
Once your boards are dry, play with their arrangement before hanging them. For a uniform look, align them in a straight line or grid. For a more relaxed, eclectic feel, stagger them to give the illusion of casually hung artwork, much like you'd find in a coastal cottage.
Hang and Style:
Use picture hanging strips or wall anchors to secure your creation to the wall. Make sure it's level, then step back and enjoy the rustic, beachy charm it brings to your space. Add a few light coastal elements nearby, like a woven basket or a textured throw, to complement your new gallery wall.
Supplies Needed
4-6 pine boards (1x8 inches, varying lengths)
White chalk paint or acrylic paint
Gray wood stain
Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
Natural jute rope (20 feet)
Picture hanging strips or wall anchors
Paintbrushes
Drop cloth
Total Cost: $35-45
Where to Buy Supplies
Home Depot or Lowe's: Pine boards, sandpaper, wall anchors
Walmart: Chalk paint, brushes, drop cloth
Amazon or craft stores: Jute rope, picture hanging strips
Buy It Option
If you’d rather skip the DIY part, you can find similar weathered wood gallery walls on Wayfair, Overstock, or Etsy.
These usually range from $80-150, but creating your own means you’ll have a custom piece that fits your exact space and style.
Layered Neutral Throw Pillow Collection
The Idea: One of the easiest ways to bring the relaxed, beachy vibe into your home is through throw pillows. But instead of relying on cliché motifs like seashells and anchors, focus on textures and subtle patterns that evoke the coastal lifestyle without being too literal.
A collection of layered neutral throw pillows in a mix of natural fabrics and colors can instantly transform a sofa or bed into a serene retreat, perfect for cozy nights or sunny afternoons.
Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly way to add character and sophistication to your space.
Image: Aurora East Photography/Claire Upton, Topsail Beach, NC
How to Recreate It
Select Your Color Palette:
The foundation of your coastal-inspired pillows should be a neutral palette of soft whites, grays, creams, and natural tans. These timeless colors will seamlessly blend with any décor while evoking the tranquil, airy feel of the beach. You can also experiment with subtle accent tones like soft sage greens or light blues, but keep them muted to maintain a cohesive look.
Mix and Match Textures:
To create a visually interesting arrangement, mix various textures such as linen, cotton, and jute. You can also incorporate natural materials like burlap or canvas for a rustic beach house vibe. Try pairing a linen pillow with a more textured jute one, or layer a soft cotton pillow with a rougher, rustic fabric. The key is to create contrast through fabric types without overpowering the eye.
Play with Size and Shape:
Throw pillows aren’t just about color and texture; they’re also about creating depth and dimension. Mix different sizes, like 18x18 inches and 20x20 inches, to add variety to your arrangement. For an extra touch of interest, consider adding an oblong or lumbar pillow for a unique shape that draws the eye.
DIY Pillow Covers:
If you're up for it, this project can easily be a DIY. Use inexpensive fabrics like drop cloths or neutral-colored remnants to create custom pillow covers. If you don’t have a sewing machine, fabric glue works perfectly well for creating simple envelope-style covers or adding decorative accents like pom-poms or tassels.
Arranging Your Pillows:
The arrangement is key to creating a cohesive and stylish look. Start with the largest pillows at the back and layer smaller ones in front. Alternate the textures and colors to keep it balanced but interesting. Don’t forget to fluff the pillows to create a relaxed, inviting feel; no need for perfection here!
Supplies Needed
4-6 pillow inserts (18x18 and 20x20 inches)
Neutral fabric remnants or drop cloths
Sewing machine or fabric glue
Measuring tape
Scissors
Pins
Optional: Decorative accents like pom-poms, tassels, or fringe
Total Cost: $40-50
Where to Buy Supplies
IKEA: Affordable pillow inserts and basic fabrics
Amazon: Basic sewing supplies
Walmart: Canvas drop cloths for rustic texture
Buy It Option
If DIY isn’t your thing, no worries! There are plenty of beautiful pre-made coastal throw pillows available.
McGee & Co, Pottery Barn, and even Marshalls all offer stylish neutral pillow collections, typically ranging from $60-120.
Look for sets labeled as "neutral coastal pillows" or "beach house throw pillows" for a laid-back vibe that’s still refined.
Mason Jar Pendant Light Fixtures
Picture this: Soft, warm light filtering through vintage mason jars, casting a gentle glow that instantly makes your kitchen island feel like the heart of a cozy coastal cottage. These aren't your typical rustic farmhouse lights—these mason jar pendants blend effortless beach house charm with sophisticated transitional style.
Why This Project Works
Mason jar pendant lights hit that sweet spot between casual and elegant. The clear glass creates beautiful light diffusion while natural rope accents add texture without screaming "theme décor." Whether you're illuminating a kitchen island, creating ambiance over a dining table, or adding character to a bedroom corner, these fixtures adapt beautifully to any space.
The best part? You'll achieve the same coastal elegance as designer fixtures for a fraction of the cost—we're talking $25-40 versus $150-300 at high-end retailers.
How to Recreate It
Transform ordinary mason jars into elegant pendant lights using simple electrical components. The clear glass and natural rope details provide coastal charm without appearing overly themed.
Image ai-generated
Supplies Needed
3 large mason jars (32 oz) - Choose clear glass for maximum light transmission
Pendant light cord sets with plugs - Look for adjustable height options
Mason jar lid light kit OR drill with glass/ceramic bit
Natural hemp rope - About 10 feet total for wrapping details
Ceiling hooks - Must be rated for light fixture weight
LED bulbs - Soft white, 60W equivalent for cozy ambiance
Smart Shopping Strategy
Start Here:
Amazon → Complete mason jar light kits (saves time!) + LED bulbs
Home Depot/Lowe's → Professional-grade ceiling hooks + electrical supplies
Local grocery store → Mason jars (often cheaper than craft stores)
Michaels/Hobby Lobby → Hemp rope (check for weekly 40% off coupons)
Pro Assembly Tips
Test your electrical setup before final installation
Vary the hanging heights slightly (2-3 inches difference) for visual interest
Wrap rope strategically around the jar's neck and rim—not the entire jar
Space pendant lights 24-30 inches apart over kitchen islands for optimal lighting
Skip the DIY? We Get It
Sometimes you want the look without the weekend project. Search for "coastal pendant lighting" or "mason jar kitchen lights" at:
Pottery Barn - Classic coastal styles
West Elm - Modern transitional options
Wayfair - Budget-friendly alternatives
The Bottom Line
This project delivers maximum impact for minimal investment. In just one afternoon, you'll transform ordinary lighting into a conversation starter that perfectly captures that relaxed, coastal-meets-sophisticated vibe everyone's after.
Additional Budget-Friendly Beach House Decor Tips
Color Psychology for Coastal Spaces: Stick to a neutral base with whites, soft grays, and natural wood tones. Add coastal elements through texture rather than obvious beach symbols.
Affordable Home Decor Shopping: Check thrift stores and estate sales for unique pieces you can refinish with coastal-inspired techniques.
Seasonal Coastal Decor: These projects work year-round, unlike heavily themed decor that feels out of place during certain seasons.
Conclusion
Creating beautiful beach house decor on a budget is entirely achievable with these DIY coastal decor ideas. Each project costs under $50 and delivers maximum impact while maintaining sophisticated, transitional appeal.
Focus on natural textures, neutral colors, and subtle coastal elements rather than overwhelming themes. Your space will feel relaxed and inviting while maintaining the timeless appeal that makes beach house style so enduringly popular.
Remember: The key to successful coastal decorating lies in restraint and quality over quantity. Choose projects that speak to your personal style while incorporating these budget-friendly coastal design elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my beach house decor look expensive on a budget?
Focus on quality textures over quantity of items. Use neutral color palettes, invest in good lighting, and mix high and low-end pieces. DIY projects using natural materials like wood and rope often look more expensive than mass-produced themed decor.
What colors work best for coastal decor that isn't too beachy?
Stick to a neutral foundation of whites, soft grays, warm beiges, and natural wood tones. Add depth with sage greens, soft blues, or sandy tans as accent colors. Avoid bright turquoise or coral that can feel too literal.
Can these DIY projects work in small apartments?
Absolutely! The gallery wall works perfectly in small spaces, pendant lights can replace existing fixtures without taking up floor space, and throw pillows add coastal vibes to any sofa or bed regardless of room size.
How long do these DIY projects typically take to complete?
The weathered wood gallery wall takes 4-6 hours including drying time, throw pillows can be completed in 2-3 hours, and mason jar pendant lights take about 1-2 hours. Most projects can be finished in a single weekend.
Where can I find the best deals on coastal decor supplies?
Shop end-of-season sales at major retailers, check Facebook Marketplace for materials like wood and mason jars, and use craft store coupons (Joann's frequently offers 40-50% off). Thrift stores are excellent for finding items to upcycle.
What's the biggest mistake people make with beach house decor?
Using too many literal beach elements like shells, anchors, and "Life's a Beach" signs. The most sophisticated coastal spaces focus on the feeling of the beach through natural textures, light colors, and relaxed styling rather than obvious symbols.
Are these projects suitable for renters?
Yes! The throw pillows require no permanent changes, pendant lights can often replace existing fixtures temporarily, and the gallery wall can be hung using removable picture strips or lean against walls on shelves.
How do I maintain the coastal look year-round?
Choose neutral, natural elements that feel appropriate in all seasons. Swap out small accessories seasonally while keeping your main coastal pieces consistent. Add cozy textures in winter and lighter fabrics in summer.
