Beach-themed centerpieces are a simple way to capture the calm and beauty of the coast, no matter where you live. Using seashells, driftwood, sand, and nautical accents, you can craft displays that feel like a walk along the shoreline.
These projects don’t just decorate your table, they set the mood, reminding you of salty breezes and sunlit waves.
With just a few supplies, you can create pieces that are romantic, playful, or bold, depending on your style. Many of these ideas use upcycled items, making them both affordable and eco-friendly.
Here are 20 creative DIY centerpiece ideas that will help you add a splash of seaside magic to your next gathering or simply to your everyday home décor.
1. Seashell Vases
Clear glass vases filled with seashells instantly give off a beachy vibe. Add a single flower or candle in the center to bring color or light to the arrangement. For a layered look, alternate shells with sand or tiny pebbles.
To make one, simply clean and dry your shells, then pour them into a vase before finishing with your centerpiece element.
These are quick to assemble and work beautifully for casual dinners or summer weddings. A grouping of three vases creates even more impact on the table.
Source: Sustain My Craft Habit
2. Beach Lanterns
Small lanterns filled with sand and tealight candles add a warm glow to any evening setting. Choose lanterns with glass sides so the sand and shells inside are visible.
To assemble, fill each lantern with a layer of sand, then place a tealight in the center. Add a few small shells or pieces of sea glass for decoration.
Light them as the sun sets to create a cozy coastal atmosphere. These lanterns are perfect for patios or outdoor parties.
Source: Songbird Blog
3. Starfish and Coral Arrangement
Artificial starfish and coral make striking focal points when arranged with seashells and sand. Use a shallow glass bowl or tray as your base. Spread a layer of sand, then position the starfish and coral upright for height.
Sprinkle smaller shells around them for texture. This arrangement brings the beauty of marine life indoors without needing maintenance. It’s an elegant option for beach-themed weddings or dining room tables.
Source: Homebnc
4. Beach Bucket Centerpieces
Miniature beach buckets filled with sand are playful and fun for summer parties. You can place a small succulent, a tealight, or even a candy inside the bucket. Tie a colorful ribbon around the handle to match your event’s theme.
Arrange several buckets down the center of a long table for a whimsical look. This idea is especially popular for kids’ beach-themed birthdays. It’s easy, inexpensive, and full of character.
Source: Sad To Happy Project
5. Beach Glass Terrariums
Turn clear containers into miniature beach landscapes. Start with a layer of sand, then add small succulents, seashells, or beach glass. Finish with a touch of driftwood or a tiny figurine.
These terrariums look fresh and modern, making them perfect for coffee tables or party décor. To assemble, use wide-mouthed glass bowls so you can easily layer your elements.
They’re low-maintenance and bring a little piece of the shore indoors.
Source: www.carousell.sg
6. Nautical Rope Candle Holders
Wrap thick nautical rope around glass candle holders to give them a rustic coastal look. Secure the rope with hot glue, making sure it’s tightly wound. Drop a candle inside to finish the design.
For a decorative touch, glue on a small seashell or starfish. These candle holders pair beautifully with driftwood or burlap runners. They’re versatile enough to use for weddings, dinner parties, or casual gatherings.
Source: Coastal Creators of Connecticut
7. Message in a Bottle
A clear bottle filled with sand, shells, and a rolled-up note makes a centerpiece that sparks curiosity. Tie twine around the neck and add a tag for extra charm.
To make one, carefully pour sand into the bottle, add a few shells, and slip in your “message.” The note can be a menu, a table number, or even a romantic quote.
Group several bottles together for a storybook effect. This idea is especially fitting for weddings or anniversary celebrations.
Source: Beach Wedding Tips
8. Beachy Flower Arrangement
Bright tropical flowers like hibiscus, orchids, or bird of paradise look stunning in a beach-themed display. Fill a tall vase with water and a layer of sand at the bottom. Arrange the flowers inside, adding seashells or palm leaves around the base.
To keep flowers fresh, change the water daily. This centerpiece bursts with color and instantly reminds you of a tropical vacation. It’s a perfect choice for summer dining or luau-style parties.
Source: Completely Coastal
9. Driftwood Centerpieces
Driftwood makes a natural and rustic base for a centerpiece. Place a few long pieces in the center of the table and tuck in small vases or jars of flowers. You can also combine it with candles or succulents for a softer look.
To prepare, clean the driftwood thoroughly and let it dry before use. The irregular shapes give each arrangement a unique feel. This idea works especially well for outdoor receptions or farmhouse-style décor.
Source: Weddingomania
10. Floating Seashell Candles
A bowl of water with floating candles and seashells creates a romantic centerpiece. Choose a wide glass bowl and fill it halfway with water. Place seashells at the bottom, then add floating candles on top.
Light them just before guests arrive to create a glowing effect. For extra elegance, sprinkle in flower petals. This simple centerpiece looks luxurious without requiring much effort.
Source: Emma Loves Weddings
11. Beachy Mason Jars
Paint mason jars in soft shades of blue, green, or sandy beige for a coastal palette. Once dry, fill the jars with sand and add a tea light or small flower arrangement. Tie twine around the neck of the jar for a rustic finish.
Use different sizes for variety and group them together in the center of the table. These jars bring a homemade charm to any beach-themed gathering. They’re inexpensive and easy to customize.
Source: Etsy
12. Beach Umbrella Centerpieces
Small colorful umbrellas add a playful touch to sand-filled containers. To make one, fill a jar or bucket with sand, then insert a wooden skewer topped with a mini umbrella. Scatter shells or sea glass around the base for decoration.
These cheerful centerpieces are great for pool parties or summer picnics. They’re quick to put together and instantly brighten the table. Guests will love the festive, tropical vibe they create.
Source: Pinterest
13. Tropical Fruit Centerpieces
Tropical fruits bring color, texture, and a fresh fragrance to your table. Arrange pineapples, coconuts, and mangoes on a large platter or tray. You can also carve out the fruits and use them as containers for flowers or candles.
Add palm leaves underneath for a polished look. This centerpiece feels lush and exotic, perfect for luaus or garden parties. It’s also budget-friendly since the fruits can be enjoyed afterward.
Source: Pinterest
14. Beachy Wine Bottles
Empty wine bottles become beautiful coastal accents with a little creativity. Remove the labels, wrap the bottles with twine or jute rope, and glue on small seashells or starfish.
For extra sparkle, insert string lights inside the bottles. Place several in the center of the table for a glowing display. These bottles combine recycling with seaside style. They’re elegant enough for weddings yet simple for everyday décor.
Source: Etsy
15. Seashell Flowers
Seashells can be turned into unique “flowers” by pouring melted wax inside them. Add a wick before the wax sets, and you’ll have homemade seashell candles. Arrange several on a tray for a natural yet elegant centerpiece.
Use shells of varying sizes for visual interest. Light them in the evening to cast a warm, beachy glow. They’re as functional as they are beautiful.
Source: Pinterest
16. Beachy Table Runner
Turn a burlap or neutral fabric runner into a coastal display by decorating it with seashells, driftwood, and starfish. Glue the items in place or scatter them for a more casual look. Add candles or small vases along the runner for extra height.
This project ties the whole table together with a coastal theme. It’s an easy DIY that can be reused for multiple occasions. The natural textures make it versatile for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Source: www.mesaninos.com.br
17. Beach Ball Centerpieces
Mini beach balls bring a burst of fun to your table. Place them inside glass bowls or vases and surround them with sand and seashells. This cheerful centerpiece is perfect for kids’ parties or casual gatherings.
Inflate the balls only partially to fit the container neatly. Add bright napkins or straws nearby to enhance the playful theme. These are lighthearted, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to make guests smile.
Source: Oriental Trading
18. Beach Themed Wedding Table
Glass terrariums filled with sand, shells, and starfish create elegant centerpieces for weddings. Use matching containers in different sizes for balance. Add candles or small flowers to bring warmth and color.
Place them in the center of round tables or line them along a banquet table. The clear glass lets every layer shine through. These arrangements feel sophisticated while still embracing the beach theme.
Source: vtolaviations.com
19. Beachy Succulent Garden
Succulents and sand make a perfect pairing in shallow bowls. Plant a variety of small succulents in sandy soil and decorate with seashells and pebbles. Add driftwood or coral for texture.
These gardens are low-maintenance and last long after the event. They’re ideal for outdoor parties or as gifts for guests. Each one feels like a little slice of the coast you can take home.
Source: Pinterest
20. Palm Leaf Centerpieces
Large palm leaves bring instant tropical drama to any table. Lay one across the center as a natural runner or use several in a fan arrangement. Place candles, shells, or small flowers on top to complete the look.
Palm leaves can also be tucked into tall vases for height. This design is bold yet simple, making it perfect for weddings or summer banquets. It’s a stunning way to finish off a coastal-inspired table.
Source: Pinterest
These DIY beach-themed centerpieces invite the seaside into your home or event with style and creativity. By mixing natural elements with personal touches, you can craft displays that transport you straight to the shore. Try a few of these ideas and let your table glow with coastal charm.