There’s something about nautical decor that instantly makes a table feel relaxed, breezy, and ready for summer fun! Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner, a coastal-themed party, or a special meal for Father’s Day, these easy decor ideas will help you create a beautiful and memorable setting without much fuss.
I’m putting this table together for our Father’s Day dinner, but I’ll keep the centerpiece on the table throughout summer because it turned out so cute!
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I’m excited for you to see it!
Steps to Create A Nautical Themed Table
To make styling this nautical tablescape super easy, I’ll walk you through each step as we build the look together.

We’re starting with a blank table and layering one element at a time—from the runner and placemats to the tableware, centerpiece, and final coastal accents.
This way, you can see how each piece adds to the overall look and recreate the style at home with your own spin!
Ok, ya’ll, I just noticed that the palm on the left side of the console table is crooked.
I can’t believe that I didn’t notice it earlier!
Stuff like that drives me crazy, so if you’re like me, try to ignore it, lol!!
Choose a Coastal Color Palette
The foundation of a beautiful nautical table setting starts with the right color palette.
Coastal-inspired decor typically features a mix of soft neutrals and cool ocean tones.
For this look, I kept things simple and breezy with a tan and white striped table runner—it instantly sets a relaxed, beachy tone.
To add texture and warmth, I layered in round jute placemats with fun, fringed edges.
Natural materials like jute, rattan, and linen are perfect for nautical table decor because they mimic elements you’d find along the shore—think driftwood, sand, and rope.
If neutrals aren’t your thing, you can add classic coastal colors like navy, sea glass green, or soft blue to complete the look.
Layer Tableware and Serveware

Once your base is in place, it’s time to layer in pieces that enhance your nautical tablescape while keeping things simple and functional.
The key is combining pieces you already have with a few thoughtful accents to make the table feel pulled together and coastal-inspired.

I used white scalloped Pottery Barn plates (that I purchased at a yard sale)—they feel classic and elegant, and their shape adds a soft, coastal vibe.
Additionally, I added tan and white ramekins that tie in perfectly with the table runner and placemats, creating a neutral yet textured look.
I finished the table setting with our everyday silverware—no need to overthink it!

Did you notice the scalloped edge on the bottom of the fork that mimics the edge on the plates?
What a fun surprise!
For glassware, I’m keeping it casual with our everyday glasses and will add them to the table after I finish the centerpiece!
Make Your Napkins Stand Out

To add a fun nautical detail, I used tan cloth napkins and tied them with a simple sailor’s knot.
I used one rope I bought at Dollar Tree for $1.25 to make four napkin holders!
This was such an inexpensive, easy DIY, and I adore how it adds personality and reinforces the nautical theme of the table decor.
Create a Nautical Centerpiece
Every nautical table setting needs a centerpiece that anchors the entire look, and this rattan boat with linen sails does precisely that.
It’s one of my favorite finds for the summer season; I purchased it from HomeGoods.
I love how it adds a touch of coastal charm and a hint of whimsy, making it the perfect conversation starter.
First, I placed the boat in the center of the table and surrounded it with small glass votive candles.
Next, I scattered a casual mix of seashells around the boat.
Some we found on the beach, and others were leftovers from the DIY sea glass bottles I created.
I finished the centerpiece by incorporating nautical cotton rope inside the boat and mingling it around the shells.
If you don’t have a decorative boat, don’t worry—there are plenty of easy alternatives that still capture the spirit of nautical table decor.
Here are a few ideas:
- Try filling a wooden tray or shallow bowl with a mix of driftwood, starfish, sea glass, or rope accents.
- A simple glass vase or hurricane filled with sand and a candle can also evoke that coastal look.
- You could even cluster lanterns of varying heights in the center of the table for a charming seaside effect.
Add Coastal Accents
Now for the fun part—adding playful, personal touches that bring your nautical table decor to life!
One of my favorite details for this tablescape is using the ramekins not just for layering, but for our Father’s Day dessert.
I baked individual cakes right inside each ramekin and topped them with little paper sailboats I made from scrapbook paper and a wooden skewer.
It’s a simple DIY that doubles as decor and dessert—your guests will love it!
Here are a few other ways you can add coastal accents:
- You can also scatter a few small accents across the table to reinforce the theme. Think miniature starfish, sand dollars, or glass fishing floats.
- Tie twine or navy ribbon around candle holders, or use rope to wrap around small jars.
- If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider adding name tags to seashells or attaching them to tiny anchor cutouts for personalized place cards.
These little coastal elements help tie everything together, making your nautical tablescape feel thoughtful and complete, without going overboard.
A note about Father’s Day – this nautical table setting is a creative way to honor a dad who loves the water, whether he enjoys sailing, fishing, or simply relaxing at the beach. Pair your coastal decor with a fresh seafood dinner or his grilled favorites to make the meal even more memorable. You could even personalize the table with fun touches like a “Captain Dad” name card or a small framed photo of a favorite beach memory. It’s an easy way to make him feel special while keeping the relaxed, coastal vibe you’ve created.
In Conclusion
Creating a beautiful nautical table doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

With a few simple layers—coastal colors, natural textures, and seaside accents—you can pull together a tablescape that feels fresh, inviting, and perfect for summer entertaining.

Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a themed dinner party, or a special meal for Father’s Day, these easy decor ideas will help you set the scene in style.

I hope you feel inspired to bring a little coastal charm to your next gathering!
Now, excuse me, while I find a glue dot to hold that crooked palm branch facing forward!
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Blessings, Donna and Rich
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More Coastal decor Inspiration
If you love coastal decor or are looking for inexpensive ways to decorate your home this summer, check out these DIY projects:
- DIY Coastal Lantern Made From a Pickle Jar
- Simple DIY Rope Wreath With a Nautical Vibe
- Coastal DIY Candles Made From Napkins
- How to Create a Coastal Gallery Wall
- Decoupage Shells to Make Pretty Trinket Dishes
**Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support. (disclosure policy)
oooh I am loving everything about this tablescape! You are so creative! Thanks for linking up and sharing your amazing ideas!
Karin
Thank you Karin, it was really fun to put together! So glad you like it! Have a great day!
So cute, Donna!! Those fringed placemats are super cool and so on theme. What a great idea to make individual cakes, too!!
Thanks Rachel! This is the first time I’ve used ramekins to bake cakes in and they turned out great! Rich (and our son too) were thrilled to get a Father’s Day treat early, lol!
Love this table Donna! The sail boat centerpiece is an awesome piece. All the details are amazing. XO- MaryJo
Thanks MaryJo! I think the sailboat is so cute, I just couldn’t pass it up! Thanks for stopping by!
What a unique way to celebrate Father’s Day, Donna. I love all the boats and the nautical touches you added to make it extra special and how you used such pretty layers of texture too. It’s nice to see something out of the box for Father’s Day. While my Dad is an avid golfer, those kinds of ideas are everywhere this time of year! Big hugs and hope Rich has an awesome day, CoCo
Thanks my friend! Rich is such a great dad, he deserves a special day, and we’ll do extra celebrating because it’s also Griffin’s birthday! Have fun celebrating all the dads in your family this weekend!