How to Design a Coastal Bathroom That Feels Relaxing, Functional, and Unexpectedly Thoughtful

Aug 20

A coastal bathroom should feel like a retreat—but it also needs to work. Whether it's your primary suite, a guest bath, or a cabana bathroom that sees constant sandy feet and wet towels, each space in your home deserves attention, intention, and a little design magic.

Let’s walk through how to make your coastal bathrooms not only look beautiful but function seamlessly—down to the smallest details that your guests (or future self) will thank you for.

Start by Defining the Bathroom’s Purpose

You might have more than one bathroom type in your home, and each deserves its own design strategy:

Primary Bathroom

This is your sanctuary—likely attached to your bedroom, and meant to feel calm, luxurious, and private. Think spa-like vibes, soft color palettes, and thoughtful storage.

Guest Bathroom

This might be shared or attached to a guest bedroom. It should be beautiful, but also highly functional for visitors who need cues on where things go.

Powder Bath

Small but mighty. This is the perfect place to have a little fun—think bold wallpaper, unique lighting, or unexpected hardware.

Cabana Bath

Typically located near an outdoor space or pool area. This is a hardworking bathroom that often doubles as a quick rinse or changing station. Humidity, moisture, and functionality are key here.

Choose Coastal-Friendly Materials That Last

Bathrooms, especially in coastal homes, deal with a lot—humidity, wet towels, sunscreen-covered feet, saltwater splashes…you name it. So the materials you choose really matter.

Here’s how I approach it:

Tile: I’d go with materials that feel honest and timeless. Look for natural textures or subtle color variation. Zellige, handmade ceramic, or even a fun mosaic can add just enough movement without feeling trendy.
Counters: If you can, go for quartzite or a sealed marble. Something with soft veining that mimics water feels really coastal without screaming it.
Cabinetry: White oak is always a favorite for me—warm, clean, and soft. For a moodier look, I love walnut in the primary bath. And if you want to play, try a painted vanity in a blue, sage, or soft clay tone in a guest or powder bath.

✨ Tip: In guest and powder baths, you can get more playful with color or layout. In the primary, keep it calm and collected—it should feel like your personal retreat.

Storage That Works for Real Life (and Beach Days)

Here’s the thing—coastal bathrooms have layers of use. You’ve got sandy swimsuits, beach bags, pool towels, extra skincare, and kids running in and out.

That’s why I always think through who’s using the space and how they’re using it.

Hooks, always – I put hooks in every bathroom. And not just one—think four or more. One for a towel, one for a robe, one for a wet swimsuit… and one just because. Especially in shared bathrooms or cabana baths, this is one of the most overlooked (but appreciated) details.
Step stools – If you have kids or host families, this is huge. I love custom vanities with a built-in toe-kick pullout for a stool. But if you don’t have the budget for that, a cute step stool tucked in the corner works just as well.
Baskets or lidded bins – For towels, TP, or anything that doesn’t need to live on the counter. It keeps things clean, but still accessible.
Toothbrush cups and small containers – A small thing that makes a big difference in guest bathrooms. People don’t want to leave their toothbrush on the counter. Give them a spot for it.

🎯 Think about how people move through the space—and design to make it easier, not harder.

Lighting That Feels Soft, Warm, and Easy

Lighting can make or break a bathroom. You don’t want it to feel too cold or too yellow—you want that soft, sun-kissed glow. Here’s what I recommend:

Wall sconces beside mirrors instead of harsh overhead vanity lights
Linen or natural shades if you have pendants in a powder bath
Dimmer switches for flexibility—especially in the primary
Picture lights or flush mounts that add charm without clutter

☀️ I also love mixing in warmer metals here—brass, bronze, even a little aged nickel. Think of what you’d see on a vintage boat or coastal cottage: it’s not perfect, it’s beautiful because it has some patina.

Bring in Texture (So It Doesn’t Feel Like a Rental)

Bathrooms can easily feel sterile—but that’s not what we’re going for. You want warmth, layers, and a few unexpected touches.

Baskets – Always. I use them for rolled towels, under-sink storage, or even laundry if it’s a bigger bath.
Art – Not just generic ocean prints. Try vintage photos, abstract coastal colors, or even something playful in a powder room.
Soft window coverings – Roman shades or woven wood blinds can totally change the mood in a bathroom.
A real (or really good faux) plant – Adds softness and life.
Layered rugs or washable runners – Way better than the standard bath mat.

It’s these details that make your bathroom feel like part of the home, not an afterthought.

Let Loose in the Powder Room or Guest Bath

This is where you get to play. Bring in:

Fun wallpaper – Florals, coastal motifs, or sun-washed patterns
Bold tile – Mosaic floors, handmade square tile in a bright glaze, or a shower niche with personality
Painted vanities – Think soft blue, sage, or even coral if you're bold
Mixed metals – It’s okay! Blend aged brass with polished nickel or matte black
Unexpected art – Vintage bathing suits, postcards, or water-themed photography

🎨 If you're using wallpaper: Go all in. No accent walls. Wallpaper the whole space—it’s small, and the impact will be huge.

Coastal Bathroom Styling Tips (That Guests Will Love)

These are the details that make your bathroom feel intuitive and elevated, especially in vacation homes or guest-ready spaces:

A small jar or container for toothbrushes
Rolled or folded towels in a basket
A tray or lidded box for personal care items
A stool or small bench near the shower or tub
A plant (real or faux) for softness and color
Room spray, matches, or a candle for the powder bath

🚿 Cabana bath tip: Consider towel hooks just outside the bathroom door, too, and add a spot to sit or drop items nearby.

Don’t Forget the Guest Experience

If you’re designing for a vacation rental, second home, or guests who visit often, ask yourself:

Is everything labeled or intuitive?
Can guests find what they need without asking?
Are there extra hooks, towels, and toiletries available?
Does the space feel fun, not fussy?

It’s the small touches—like a stepstool for kids, an easy place to hang wet swimsuits, or a beautifully folded towel—that make people say, “Wow, they thought of everything.”

Pull It All Together with These Bathroom Styling Finds

Once the tile is set and the vanity is in, it’s time to bring in those finishing layers that make your bathroom feel lived-in, thoughtful, and beautifully coastal. These are my go-to pieces for adding warmth, texture, and practicality—whether you're designing for guests, family, or your own quiet retreat.

SHOP THE LOOK:

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them—at no additional cost to you. I only share products I truly love and would use in my own home.

Wrapping Up: Every Bathroom Should Feel Intentional

Whether you're refreshing your primary suite or building out a new cabana bath, coastal design works best when it's thoughtful, layered, and personal. Don’t be afraid to have fun in small spaces or soften the bigger ones. And above all—design for the way you actually live.

Want to bring more coastal ease into your home, one room at a time? Reach out below and let’s talk about your space.

Stay tuned for next week’s post: How to Design a Coastal Bedroom That Feels Light, Layered, and Effortless 🛏️

I want coastal ease, please