So, you’re dreaming of a nursery that feels like a permanent vacation? I totally get it! There is something so calming about the ocean—the soft blues, the sandy textures, and those adorable sea creatures. Whether you want a bold “Captain’s Quarters” vibe or a soft, breezy “Day at the Beach” feel, I’ve rounded up ten incredible spaces to spark your imagination.
1. Watercolor Waves
If you want a room that feels like a storybook, this is it. The hand-painted lighthouse mural is such a stunning focal point without being “too much.” I love how the soft watercolor blues bleed into the white shiplap walls—it keeps the room feeling airy and bright.
2. Coral Reef
Who says coastal has to be just navy and white? This room is such a breath of fresh air with its aqua shiplap walls and pops of coral pink. It feels sunny, energetic, and a little bit whimsical. The way the coral wall decor matches the knit pouf and the throw pillow is just chef’s kiss. It’s a great example of how to use a secondary color to make a room feel unique. The fish-themed rug brings in even more life, making the whole floor feel like an underwater playground. If you have a room with great natural light, these bright tones will absolutely glow.
3. Captain’s Quarters
This is for the lovers of classic, timeless style. The deep navy wainscoting paired with the dark wood crib gives this nursery a really grounded, sturdy feel. It’s a bit more “old-world explorer” than “beach bum,” and I am here for it. It’s a cozy, “hug-in-a-room” kind of space that will easily grow with a child as they turn into a little adventurer.
4. Sandy Shores
If your personal style leans more toward organic and neutral, this room is your soulmate. It’s all about texture here—white shiplap, a seagrass rug, and that stunning tiered rattan chandelier.
The seashell shadow box above the crib is such a clever DIY-able idea to bring the beach inside without using bright colors. I also love the wicker nursing chair; it looks like something you’d find on a high-end porch in the Hamptons. By keeping the palette almost entirely white and tan, the room feels massive and incredibly peaceful. It’s the ultimate “quiet luxury” coastal nursery.
5. Whale Watch
Sometimes, less is more. This room uses a soft powdery blue on the top half of the walls to create a sky-like effect, grounded by crisp white wainscoting. It’s simple, clean, and very soothing for a newborn. The hanging whale mobile is the star of the show here—it’s playful but doesn’t clutter the visual field. I also really like the oversized starfish wall art; it’s a simple way to commit to the theme without overdecorating. If you’re working with a smaller room, this “half-and-half” wall treatment is a great trick to make the ceilings feel higher!
6. Anchor Deep
Talk about a statement wall! This rich navy shiplap is absolutely stunning, especially when contrasted with the bright white anchors and the “petal” style chandelier. This room feels a bit more “grown-up” and polished.
The geometric blue rug adds a modern touch that balances out the traditional nautical elements like the sailboat painting. I also love the pop of pattern on the armchair pillow; it ties the whole color story together. This is a great layout if you want a nursery that feels like a seamless extension of a well-designed, modern home.
7. Dolphin Dreams
This room uses a stunning wall-to-wall mural to create a total sense of adventure. It feels like you’re looking right out of a window at a sailboat passing by. I’m a huge fan of how they paired the mural with blue-and-white plaid wallpaper on the adjacent walls—it’s a mix of patterns that shouldn’t work, but it totally does! The round jute rug with the giant white starfish is such a clever way to ground the space. It’s whimsical, imaginative, and feels like a little tropical getaway right in the middle of the house.
8. Surf’s Up
This room is pure fun! It’s got a tropical, surf-shack vibe that is perfect for a high-energy kiddo. The mural with the big crashing wave and palm trees makes a huge impact, and those string lights draped across the wall add a cozy, “summer nights” glow. My favorite part? The surfboard mounted on the wall. It’s such a cool alternative to traditional art. The orange teddy bear and polka-dot pillows add a punchy contrast to the blue water, making the whole room feel vibrant and happy. It’s a total “cool kid” room.
9. Preppy Port
This nursery is the definition of “crisp.” Everything is so bright and white, which makes the navy and white striped bedding and the chevron rug really pop. It feels very East Coast preppy and very organized.
The crystal knobs on the dresser add a tiny touch of glam, while the anchor tapestry keeps it feeling youthful. If you love a room that feels “clean” and high-contrast, this navy-on-white look is a winner. It’s a classic color combo that never, ever goes out of style.
10. Graphic Galley
Last but not least, we have a room that plays with bold patterns. From the navy polka-dot crib bumper to the striped rug with starfish motifs, this room isn’t afraid to mix it up. The large-scale ship sketch above the crib is a sophisticated piece of art that anchors (pun intended!) the whole space. Using a dark navy pouf is a great practical choice, too—it’s a comfy footrest for those late-night feedings that won’t show every little spill. It’s a smart, stylish, and very functional nursery.