Home Porches 55 Beach-Inspired Porches and Patios for Instant Relaxation By Coastal Living Coastal Living Published quarterly, Coastal Living reaches consumers who love life on the coast. Whether they are living right on the water or are dreaming of their next beach escape, these passionate consumers want the coastal lifestyle in their home, travel, and every other aspect of their lives. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on June 20, 2022 Close Photo: Photographer: J. Savage Gibson, Writer: Rachel Bertone The ocean breeze on your face and the smell of salty waters make you smile. Something about being near the water puts you in a great mood. While at the beach, what better way to enjoy gorgeous views than from a comfortable porch or deck? Watch the sunrise or sunset from the comfort of your beachy porch. Adding conveniences, like cozy pillows and blankets, from an indoor room helps create an inviting space where guests will want to visit, and you'll never want to leave. Find your outdoor porch or patio inspiration here. 01 of 55 Seaside Escape Photo: Max Kim-Bee; Stylist: Erin Swift Get this looks by adding natural, white cedar shingles. The trim, painted an offwhite, complements the blue sky and sandy beach. Classic charm is abundant on this relaxing Jersey Shore porch with panoramic water views and ocean-inspired decor. 02 of 55 Island Hangout Photo: Annie Schlechter; Stylist: Liz Strong A vintage teak daybed takes center stage in this Bahamas outdoor living room. Louvered shutters lend privacy while allowing the island breeze to flow. The white trim and natural woods make the ocean-blue pillows stand out in this outdoor space. 03 of 55 Cottage-Style Perch Photo: Richard Leo Johnson; Stylist: Elizabeth Beeler Endless vistas of chartreuse marsh grass and blue-gray water are the focal points of this breezy porch. A white and turquoise picnic set adds a cheerful vibe. The covered patio offers a place to enjoy the outdoors, rain or shine. 04 of 55 Colorful Ocean-Front Deck Photo: Francesco Lagnese; Stylist: Elizabeth Beeler Adirondacks covered with large blue cushions make for an inviting spot to enjoy morning coffee or happy hour cocktails on this Rockport, Massachusetts, porch. The simplicity of the spaces allows for unobstructed ocean views. Overhead lighting brightens the room. 05 of 55 Crystal Clear Views Photo: John Ellis A table and garden stool provides seating for entertainment. Sightlines this stunning make glass panels the perfect surrounding for this Malibu porch. A round table improves maneuverability on this patio without taking up too much space. 06 of 55 Pleasing Palette Photo: Tria Giovan, Stylists: Rachel Burrow and Liz Strong Looking at the deck of this Cinnamon Shore, Texas, this house has it all. Perfectly situated nooks for conversation and dining. The chair's green fabric mingles softly with the pale blue exterior walls, and punchy geometric throw pillows invigorate the space. 07 of 55 Screen Play Photo: Dasha Wright; Stylist: Lynn Nesmith This Watersound, Florida, screened porch is the picture of relaxation, with its hanging daybed outfitted in lime green, navy, and turquoise throw pillows. A string of bistro lights adds to the space's whimsy. A pair of chairs and a small table make this a perfect happy hour spot. 08 of 55 Sunny Retreat Photo: Tria Giovan; Stylist: CJ Sandgren An open-air deck with a roaring fire pit is perfect for unwinding after a day on the beach. An umbrella protects from those late-day sun rays while the wall sconce brightens up the space for nighttime entertaining. Next to the coastal blue exterior, the wicker chairs complement seamlessly. 09 of 55 Hanging Around Photographer: J. Savage Gibson, Writer: Rachel Bertone Coastal blues and greens—from cozy pillows to a graphic rug—create a lively color scheme for this porch. Two oversized hanging swings offer a scenic spot for an afternoon nap or great conversations. Prop a pillow at the edge of the swing and watch the slowly drifting waves crash into the ocean. 10 of 55 Great Escape Laurey W. Glenn This screened-in porch is airy and inviting. Thanks to the well-cushioned rattan sofa and lounge chairs, this is an ideal spot to unwind after a day on the beach or early morning coffee. The tan palette echoes the coastal trees and environment just outside the screens. 11 of 55 Lovely Outdoor Lounge Jason Donnelly An L-shaped built-in bench with plush cushions, pillows, and a duo of appetizer-ready tables make for an alfresco-ready hangout. An outdoor rug defines the lounging area, while the dining table functions as additional seating or setting for an informal dinner party. Plenty of outdoor plants, hanging and potted, make this an immersive garden space. 12 of 55 A Hidden Gem Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Kathleen Varner This indoor-outdoor space is an excellent extension of the home's entertaining areas. A sectional sofa suited for the outdoors offers plenty of room for lounging and entertaining friends. Don't forget about your furry friends in these outdoor spaces. Find a dog bed that can tolerate some of nature's elements. 13 of 55 Posh by the Pool Photo: Tria Giovan The contemporary lounges on the patio of our 2012 Ultimate Beach House in Rosemary Beach, Florida, are wicker and designed to withstand extreme sunlight and have mildew-resistant cushions that shed water. Lime accessories pep up the deeper shades of the plants. The water-friendly fabrics and umbrella are poolside paradise essentials. 14 of 55 Warm Welcome Photo: Laurey W. Glenn Take advantage of the warmer Southern climate by moving your Christmas celebrations to an overdoor patio. A fireplace anchors this friendly, cozy patio. Adding a functional bar and overhead lighting transforms an outdoor area into an outdoor room. 15 of 55 Dockside Digs Photo: Nancy Nolan A long dining table can support many guests. A splendid place to peek through the trees for a glimpse of lake views, nature surrounds this stunning porch. Lantern lighting adds to this rustic charm by not overpowering the space with artificial light and instead uses candles to illuminate your next dinner party. 16 of 55 Breezy Retreat Photo: Laurey W. Glenn Arched breezeways add interest to this outdoor lounging space. Designing an airy space while enjoying the sunlight increases the room's functionality because you can use it on record-breaking hot days. Tropical plants surround the room to help bring the outdoors to the designated area, outlined with an outdoor rug. 17 of 55 Open-Air Getaway Photo: Jonny Valiant Brightly hued suzani throw pillows add a pop of color to this Gulf Coast perch. A striped indoor-outdoor rug provides ample cushioning for bare feet. Stately columns and free-flowing drapes add elegance to the space. 18 of 55 Bold in Blue Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Page Mullins A bright blue-and-white geometric rug brings a burst of color to this otherwise open porch. Sturdy wicker chairs provide prime seating for expansive views. The opposing loveseat and chairs set for conversations are great for entertaining. 19 of 55 Living Color Photo: Annie Schlechter; Stylist: Elizabeth Beeler Happy yellow mixes playfully with the soft sea foam Adirondack on this Abaco Island porch. Simplicity is key when the surroundings are so lush. This tiny patio space is a quiet retreat overlooking the ocean in the distance. 20 of 55 Warming Trend Tria Giovan A simple outdoor fireplace makes a patio or porch functional year-round. A long dining room table with a series of seating options makes it great for planning outdoor events for family and friends. Use this space for hosting a cocktail hour or dinner party on a cool evening. 21 of 55 Poolside Perk Photo: Roger Foley A shady structure stands alone from the main house for easy entertaining. Vintage white trim and French doors beckon swimmers to take a break from the sun and lounge indoors for a while. Built-in storage makes it easy to keep everything you need within reach. 22 of 55 Under the Stars Photo: David Tsay; Stylist: Dani Fisher Teak furnishings and Moroccan-style lanterns make this Malibu patio perfect for dining al fresco. Overhanging branches offer a reprieve from the sun, and the adjacent indoor spaces transitions seamlessly into the outdoor dining area with picture frame doors. The smooth stone walkway keeps guests on sturdy ground. 23 of 55 Island Style Courtesy of Target Rich corals and pops of bright yellow create an inviting outdoor atmosphere. Overhead lighting and chairs add interest to the space through their mix-and-match textures. Colorful potted flowers and hanging plants add to the tropical vibe. 24 of 55 Delightful Deck Lisa Romerein This open deck makes room for any activity you need. Enjoy the expansive vistas from the comfort of your own home. Pull up a chair or lounge directly on the wood boards. 25 of 55 Let's Play Chess Photo: Laurey W. Glenn On a whimsical play of a classic color combination, a glossy black-and-white checkboard floor contrasts with red pops of color on the accent tables. Using primarily white in this space grounds the area compared to the expressive tiles. 26 of 55 Outdoor Living Room Jonny Valiant Adding floor-length drapes in water-resistant fabric is a great way to make outdoor spaces feel like extensions of the home. They provide cooling shade in the summer, insulation, warmth in the winter, and privacy all year round. The beachy colors of white and blue are a classic combination. 27 of 55 Open Season Laurey W. Glenn An abundant array of seating makes for a warm and inviting porch to enjoy with friends and neighbors. Linen-covered seats and planters provide a nice balance of simplicity and a touch of color. Floor-to-ceiling shutters add visual interest to the architectural design. 28 of 55 A Hidden Nook Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez, Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller; Location: Alys Beach, Florida The blue hues in the decor of this outdoor space add cohesion to the entire exterior. The electric blue trim perfectly coordinates with the large planters. White tables and cozy chairs help blend the area. 29 of 55 Summer Stripes Photo: Laurey W. Glenn Playful stripes make any porch fun and an inviting place to relax. Try pairing striped chairs with a rug in the same or slightly different color palette. The small side tables make this coastal porch welcoming for many guests. 30 of 55 Seated in Sand Robbie Caponetto; Styling: Kathleen Varner; Hair, Makeup, and Wardrobe: Celine Russell/Zenobia There's nothing simpler than tucking a table and chairs directly into the sand to create a coastal atmosphere. This outdoor hangout is ideal on summer nights after the ocean winds calm with the evening's tides. Make chairs comfortable to invite guests to stay a while. 31 of 55 Bold Sophistication Laurey W. Glenn Outdoor space lends itself to a more playful decor than its interior counterparts. Go bold when choosing paint colors and fabrics, or try painting the ceiling for a dramatic impact. Keep some elements neutral to not overwhelm the space and highlight intended focal points. 32 of 55 Terrace by the Water Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller This terrace, lined by a brick wall, presents a European-bistro vibe with its linen-covered table and chairs. Two Adirondack chairs set back from the water's edge provide a panoramic view of the water. Wild grasses and potted plants bring life to the outdoor space. 33 of 55 Easy Living Hector Sanchez The brilliant seafoam door and ceiling complement the barely-there yellow of the house's exterior. White wicker furnishings pop against the splashes of yellow and green. Screening on a porch allows for good use of indoor-outdoor space. 34 of 55 Simple Comfort Photo: Laurey W. Glenn, Robbie Caponetto A table and two Adirondack chairs are all you need. The white railing secures you from the billowing dunes, but the rustic floor provides a forgiving space for sandy toes. This porch, facing the water, is simple and positions itself to meet the water, which is all you want from a beach patio. 35 of 55 Full View Laurey W. Glenn A wraparound porch ensures you'll have spectacular views. Plush pillows provide seating to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Arrange a pair of chairs in delicate outdoor fabrics to encourage conversation. The layout of the porch's wood paneling adds interest to the space without diverting attention away from the scenery. 36 of 55 Riverfront Hangout Jessica Ashley When located along a river, porches on every side of your home's exterior are architectural must-haves. Build stairs directly to the waterfront for easy access and convenience because you will want to spend as much time as possible in front of those stunning views. The benefit of riverfront homes is landscaping can blend into the rugged exterior, so very little maintenance is needed if you choose to over-grown look. 37 of 55 Mix and Match Laurey W. Glenn Along with the eclectic mix of throw pillows, contrasting materials like rattan furniture and a wood coffee table add interest to the space. Using trellis fencing adds a more dynamic backdrop for the seating area. Tie together the mix of colors with floral bouquets and neutral seat fabrics. 38 of 55 Rustic Charm Photo: Laurey W. Glenn A glowing fireplace and muted furniture give this patio a warm, natural feel. Wooden tables and opposing porch swings add to the Southern charm by including some classic elements. Alternatively, the pops of purple decor give it an unexpected edge. 39 of 55 Classic Meets Contemporary Photo: Laurey W. Glenn The white clapboard siding with black shutters is a classic pairing. The porch swing, another Southern classic, is the perfect place for homeowners to enjoy the salt air and inspiring sunsets. Adding a small bench is ideal for additional seating and can be utilized as storage or display spaces when not used for company. 40 of 55 Beautiful Blue Porch Photo: Carmel Brantley; Styling: Erin Swift This sky-blue porch is bursting with charm. We can't resist a hanging day bed, and this one is extra-large, which acts as a bedroom you'd never want to leave. The pretty blue palette is soothing and energizing because of the white accents. 41 of 55 Perfect Palette Photo: Laurey W. Glenn Next to the cedar-shake siding, the paneling and accents combine in this room, filled with natural light from the surrounding windows. Sandy-hued cushions and white shell chairs contrast the dark woods. Including an ocean blue table runner topped with plants establishes this tried-and-true seaside palette. 42 of 55 Waterfront Appeal Laurey W. Glenn, Robbie Caponetto / Styling: Matthew Gleason Playful stripes make any porch fun and an inviting place to relax. Try pairing striped chairs with a rug in a muted version of the same color palette. The Edison-bulb sconce and metal pendant lighting combine to make this coastal porch contemporary by adding industrial finishes. 43 of 55 Nautical Charmer Laurey W. Glenn This room has nautical elements hidden throughout the decor. The striped rug defines the space, and the port keyhole-style window adds to the architectural design—splashes of different shades of blue complete the look. Anchoring the room is the heavy wooden furniture, which looks sturdy in the space. 44 of 55 Kid-Friendly Porch Using sheets to cover an outdoor daybed is great for kids because it forgives spills and all sorts of mud, sand, and dirt. Use a washable rug to set up a play area so you don't worry about damaging your outdoor space when you want to use it for entertaining. Fun, decorative pillows keep the room looking in season at all times. 45 of 55 Breezy Escape Amazon This pergola, designed to soak up the sun, must also withstand the elements. The low-to-the-ground seating makes the area feel like you are sitting directly on the beach. Plus, the sand-colored tile and rug help set the stage. 46 of 55 Bright Spot Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller A narrow porch can make for a surprisingly accommodating outdoor room. Incorporate a playful palette of coral and lime green for a warm, welcoming front porch. The copper accents bring this joyful space a contemporary feel. 47 of 55 Well Served Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller You'll enjoy alfresco meals more with a patio that allows you to entertain outside as you would indoors. Rattan chairs provide comfortable seating that can also withstand the elements. Using a floral arrangement as a centerpiece is extra special when the blooms are cut directly from your garden. 48 of 55 Sunny Outlook Wayfair Take your color cues from the sun. Pops of lively orange, yellow, and pink are at home on porches designed for lounging after sun-kissed days at the beach. Surround the patio with fresh container gardens to add more color to the space. 49 of 55 Bright and Cozy Perch Getty Images A pastel color palette of orange and coral gives this porch a delicate personality that balances with the textured chairs and stained-wood shutters. Use your surroundings for plant influences, like a tiny cactus. Glass workers can custom make a tabletop to protect it from scratches or daily activities. 50 of 55 Screen Scene Hector Manuel Sanchez A screened-in porch extends this home's living space and gives year-round sheltered comfort. Plenty of seating, a rug, and plants give this porch a homey feel. The lime green wicker sofa adds playfulness to this casual room. 51 of 55 Seeing Green Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller Surrounded by a lush green garden, this patio makes the most of the small space by adding plants in every corner. Hanging plants and colorful leafy shrubs add pops of color to the natural setting. The stained glass window ensures a garden view through its green-tinted glass for a spectacular covered view. 52 of 55 Relaxing Escape Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper Create a private retreat on your patio with a small daybed and unique light fixture. Awning windows are perfect for letting in a breeze without worrying about the weather forecast as they protect against rain. Plenty of pillows make the space extra comfy. 53 of 55 Blue Dream Hector Sanchez Bright turquoise, blue, and lime green fabrics in the drapes add a dramatic focal point to this porch. The table and chairs easily fold away if you need the space to maneuver or are hosting a large party. With the bright colors in the draping, a navy blue painted floor helps ground the space. 54 of 55 Outdoor Living wayfair.com Sometimes outdoor living comes down to positioning two wicker chairs in a shady, relaxing spot. You don't need a lot of decor or furniture to make a beachy patio. Add a tan rug and spruce up wicker chairs with linen-covered cushions, and you have everything you need. 55 of 55 Beautiful Back Porch Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lizzie Cullen Cox The calming white trim in this back patio, complemented by the pop of green in the lumbar pillow, makes this space a bright, inviting room. The iron-rod sectional adds variety to the area, offsetting the energetic white painted floors and fabrics. Large picture windows provide sightlines that make you sit and stay a while. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit