Many homeowners tend to go over the top with their beach decorations, leaving few options for changing tastes and updating styles down the road. Luckily, there are many easy ways to make a beachfront property seem “beachy” without investing in fake sand dollars and tropical fish shower curtains!

For more classic beach-inspired décor, consider neutrals and earth tones. These colors are easier on the eyes and will stay in style for years to come. However, this doesn't have to just mean brown and beige walls – greens and blues fall under this category as well, and you can even add a bolder accent wall. Sand and stone colors are also reminiscent of the beach and are perfect for the larger pieces in the home (like sofas, chairs, ottomans, etc.) as these tones offer more color coordinating options.

Neutrals are not only safer choices, but will help keep your decorating budget in check for the long run since you might get tired of a bright sky blue or a bold sea-foam green sooner.

If the predominant colors are earth tones, you'll have room to add more pop with your accents. Consider patterns like paisleys and stripes that include beach-inspired colors…without fish! Your home does not need to seem like a children's play area in order to remind guests of its fabulous beach location. If you prefer warmer colors but would still like to convey a beach feel, shades of coral would be a good color choice and will keep the home feeling tranquil and serene.

If you are starting from scratch, lighter wood tones for the floors, cabinets and furniture are a good way to make the home seem sunny and airy. To make the home more unique, try out some beach shapes for the fixtures instead of just focusing on colors. Perhaps a wavy sink or ripples in the shower glass. If your home is a few blocks off the beach, consider purchasing a free-standing waterfall or tabletop fountain. Guests will undoubtedly enjoy the soothing and calming sounds of the water from both inside and outside the house. Also, bring in real elements from nature like stones and shells to finish off your rooms.

If you own directly on the beach, position the furniture so that guests can see the sunset and enjoy the sounds of the ocean. These memories will make an impact and may compel your guests to come back next summer or in the off-season.

How did you decorate your beach vacation rental? "Since we advertise mostly to families, we not only expected our furniture to get a lot of use, but we knew it would get wet and sandy.  So, we bought durable and easy to clean couches and chairs.  To make things more "beachy", we got them in different shades of pale blue and green."  --Lauren H., Galveston, TX.

Top 10 Decorating Styles to Avoid in Your Vacation Rental While “Shabby Chic” may be increasingly popular, these decorating movements are never in style.   Tips for Furnishing Your Vacation Rental Home Guide to choosing new furnishings for your vacation rental home.   Furnishing a Small Vacation Rental Home You can easily furnish your cozy abode so that it feels spacious and appeals to renters looking for a getaway.   How to Build an Outdoor Living Area at Your Vacation Rental Learn some of the components of building a functional, comfortable, and memorable outdoor living space.

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