Beach Landscaping Ideas

Exterior Structures

• Including exterior structures in your beach landscape ensures that your home includes exterior as well as interior living spaces. Structures provide access to the water and shelter from sun, wind or sea spray. Many beach-side homes include private dock access. Docks are ideal for swimming, fishing and boating, so long as water access is permitted in your area. If you have an existing dock, consider including the same type and color wood into other exterior structures, such as decks or patios. Select a pressure-treated wood that withstands the harsh winds, humidity and salt of waterfront living. If your home is in a tropical area, consider a deck or patio with a thatched overhang for shade. If you prefer a seamless design, consider large rock slab patios instead of wood patios. Sand serves as a natural grout for small rock walkways. Cover your patio with an attached awning that extends from the side of the house; retractable awnings allow you to control the amount of sun or shade over the patio.

Plants and Greenery

• Growing a garden is challenging in many coastal climates; harsh winds, excess humidity and sand soil are difficult conditions for many plant species. Selective planting not only adds color to your landscape, but larger trees and shrubs also serve as windbreaks that protect homes and exterior structures. For the rocky beaches of the East Coast, choose plants that not only thrive in windy coastal area but are also hardy enough to withstand chilly winters and autumns. Sturdy Eastern red cedar trees protect homes from coastal winds; bayberry or crabwood shrubs are fuller, lower-growing shrubs that adapt to difficult coast soils and provide ample greenery. Warmer climates sustain many tropical plants but select species that are salt tolerant. Create a tropical windbreak with a variety of large and small palm trees. Beach grasses are ideal for sloping dunes because the roots provide support for the loose soil. Add color with a small flower bed of geraniums and daylilies or create a container garden of delicate orchids.

Outdoor Accessories

• Outdoor furniture and accessories transform simple landscapes into outdoor living spaces useful for entertaining guests or enjoying the scenery of a coastal home. For rocky or cooler coastlines, opt for nautical-themed accessories creating a rustic and shabby-chic atmosphere. Line your patio with wooden Adirondack chairs for lounging or wicker chairs with navy-and-white striped weather-resistant cushions for outdoor dining. Install an outdoor kitchen or built-in barbecue pit for summer clambakes or grilling parties. If you are located in a tropical location, opt for a blend of neutral, white furniture accented with festive and bright fabrics and accessories. A multicolored striped cloth hammock provides a place for relaxing, while a series of white wicker patio furniture are a clean, neutral option for outdoor dining. Choose outdoor accessories like planters or wind chimes with sea shell details.