There’s a reason coastal-inspired living rooms always feel so inviting. They have that effortless, light, and airy vibe—like a deep breath of fresh ocean air.
And guess what? You don’t need to live by the water to get that feeling in your home. The right paint color can bring the coast to you.
Coastal colors aren’t just about blues and whites (though those are classics). Think of stormy grays, misty greens, soft sandy tones, and even warm neutrals that feel sun-kissed.
The goal is to capture the natural beauty of the coast—whether that’s the bold drama of the ocean, the gentle movement of seafoam, or the way sunlight reflects off weathered driftwood.
I’ve rounded up some of the best coastal paint colors that will instantly transform your living room into a calm, breezy escape.
Whether you love deep navy blues, soft sea-glass hues, or warm, beachy neutrals, these colors will help you create that perfect coastal retreat.
What are Coastal Paint Colors?
Coastal paint colors are inspired by the serene, airy, and refreshing hues found in nature along the coastline. These colors evoke a sense of calm, relaxation, and effortless elegance by mimicking the soft blues of the sky and ocean, the sandy beiges of the shore, the airy whites of sea foam, and the muted greens of coastal vegetation.
The goal of a coastal color palette is to create a light, open, and breezy atmosphere reminiscent of beachside living, even if you’re miles away from the ocean.
Coastal paint colors aren’t just about blues and whites—though those are staples. They also include warm neutrals, soft grays, weathered driftwood tones, and even hints of sun-bleached corals or sea-glass greens.
The key is in the undertones: most coastal colors have a softness that makes them feel airy rather than overly bold or saturated.
Whether you lean toward crisp and fresh or warm and sun-washed, coastal paint colors bring the beauty of the beach indoors in a way that feels timeless and inviting.
Why Choose Coastal Paint Colors for the Living Room?
A coastal-inspired living room instantly feels open, peaceful, and inviting. These colors help create an environment that feels light and breathable—ideal for a space where you unwind, entertain, or simply enjoy your home’s atmosphere.
One of the biggest appeals of coastal colors is their versatility. They work beautifully in a range of decor styles, from traditional beach cottage aesthetics to modern, minimalist interpretations of coastal design.
A soft blue or seafoam green can add a subtle hint of color without overwhelming a space, while warm whites and sandy beiges provide a perfect neutral backdrop for layered textures like linen, jute, and weathered wood.
Beyond aesthetics, coastal paint colors have a psychological benefit. Blues and greens are known to be calming, reducing stress and creating a more relaxing atmosphere. Lighter neutrals, on the other hand, can make a space feel larger and brighter, which is especially beneficial in smaller living rooms or homes with limited natural light.
Tips for Choosing the Best Coastal Paint Colors for the Living Room
- Consider Natural Light – Coastal colors thrive in well-lit spaces, but the way they appear can change depending on lighting conditions. North-facing rooms may bring out cooler undertones in blues and grays, while south-facing rooms will enhance the warmth of sandy neutrals and off-whites. Always test swatches in different lighting before committing.
- Think About Undertones – Many coastal blues, grays, and greens have subtle undertones that can shift throughout the day. A blue with gray undertones will feel more muted and sophisticated, while one with a green undertone may feel fresher and more vibrant. Choose an undertone that complements your existing decor.
- Balance Softness and Depth – While coastal palettes are known for their airy feel, layering in deeper hues can create contrast and prevent the space from feeling too washed out. Consider pairing a light, breezy color with a deeper accent shade—like navy, charcoal, or a rich sea-glass green—for a more grounded look.
- Pair with Natural Elements – Coastal colors are enhanced by natural materials like rattan, driftwood, linen, and woven textures. When choosing paint, think about how it will interact with your furniture and decor to create a cohesive, beach-inspired feel.
- Decide on a Coastal Style – Do you prefer a crisp, nautical-inspired coastal look with bright whites and deep navy? Or a softer, more organic coastal feel with muted grays and weathered tones? Identifying your preferred coastal aesthetic will help narrow down your color choices.
Top 17 Coastal Paint Colors for Living Room
Let’s talk about why these are the best coastal paint colors for a living room—not just good, but truly top-tier choices for creating that relaxed, breezy, and sophisticated coastal vibe.
Deep & Moody Coastal Blues: A Sense of Depth and Sophistication
1. Naval by Sherwin Williams
If you want a bold yet classic coastal statement, Naval is your go-to. This deep navy blue has an almost velvety richness that feels both grounded and serene—perfect for a coastal living room that leans a little more sophisticated.
It pairs beautifully with crisp whites, sandy neutrals, and even warm wood tones, creating that perfect balance between bold and breezy.
Imagine a living room with Naval walls, white linen drapes, and natural woven textures—it’s effortlessly elegant with a coastal edge.
2. Newburyport Blue by Benjamin Moore
If Naval feels a bit too deep but you still crave that rich coastal blue, Newburyport Blue is a fantastic alternative. It has a touch of warmth that keeps it from feeling too stark, making it a more inviting and livable navy.
It looks stunning with white shiplap, brass accents, and soft gray furnishings, giving off that classic New England coastal charm.
3. Florida Keys Blue by Benjamin Moore
Now, if you’re after that bright, tropical, sunlit coastal feel, Florida Keys Blue is a dream. It’s the kind of vibrant, ocean-inspired blue that instantly transports you to a breezy seaside escape.
Used as an accent wall or even on built-ins, this color brings energy and joy without feeling overwhelming. Pair it with crisp whites and soft sandy tones for balance, and you’ve got a coastal living room that feels like a vacation.
4. Ocean Boulevard by Behr
A softer, more weathered take on a coastal blue, Ocean Boulevard is an easy, breezy shade that feels light and refreshing.
It’s got just enough depth to add character without making a room feel closed in, making it ideal for smaller living rooms or spaces with a lot of natural light.
It plays well with warm neutrals and natural wood, giving you that perfect “sun-washed beach house” feel.
5. Rain by Sherwin Williams
If you love the idea of coastal blue but want something a bit softer and more subtle, Rain is a beautiful option. This muted blue-green is reminiscent of a misty seaside morning.
It has just the right amount of gray undertone to keep it from feeling overly bright, making it soothing and livable. It’s perfect for a coastal living room where you want color but also a calming, peaceful atmosphere.
Soft & Airy Coastal Hues: The Light, Breezy Colors
6. Watery by Behr
As the name suggests, Watery is the definition of a soft, water-inspired blue-green. It’s incredibly light and fresh, making a living room feel open and tranquil.
It’s the kind of color that catches the natural light beautifully, shifting slightly between blue and green throughout the day. This is a perfect choice for a modern coastal look that feels effortless and relaxing.
7. Sea Salt by Sherwin Williams
If there were ever a color that embodies that beachy, spa-like coastal vibe, it’s Sea Salt. This gorgeous, pale green-gray shifts beautifully between soft blue-green depending on the lighting.
It’s incredibly versatile—bright enough to keep a space feeling airy but with just enough color to feel intentional. This is one of those colors that works with nearly every other coastal shade, whether you lean more nautical, classic, or organic in your coastal style.
8. Parma Gray by Farrow & Ball
Despite the name, Parma Gray is actually a soft, muted blue with a gray undertone. It has an old-world European coastal charm to it, perfect for a sophisticated and timeless coastal living room.
It feels airy yet has just enough richness to create depth. Think white slipcovered sofas, weathered wood floors, and soft linen textures—Parma Gray ties it all together beautifully.
9. Top Sail by Sherwin Williams
Top Sail is another dreamy coastal hue—a soft, misty blue with a whisper of green. It feels delicate and fresh, perfect for a more subdued coastal aesthetic.
If you love the idea of coastal color but don’t want anything too bold, this is a wonderful, easygoing choice.
10. Extra White by Sherwin Williams
A great coastal living room needs a perfect white, and Extra White is a top contender. This crisp, cool white reflects natural light beautifully, keeping your space feeling bright and airy.
It’s ideal as a trim color, a ceiling color, or even for the walls if you want a fresh, clean canvas that lets other coastal hues pop.
Coastal-Inspired Neutrals: Warm, Sand-Washed Tones
11. Stonington Gray by Benjamin Moore
Not all coastal colors have to be blue! Stonington Gray is a soft, refined gray with just the right amount of coolness to feel fresh.
It pairs seamlessly with whites and blues, creating a classic coastal color scheme that feels timeless and elegant.
12. Collingwood by Benjamin Moore
For a slightly warmer take on coastal neutrals, Collingwood is a fantastic choice. It’s a light, airy greige that balances warm and cool tones, making it a perfect backdrop for a coastal living room.
It adds warmth without feeling heavy, which is essential for achieving that effortless beachy feel.
13. Ammonite by Farrow & Ball
If you love the look of soft, weathered driftwood, Ammonite is the neutral for you. It has a gentle, natural warmth that keeps a space feeling inviting and relaxed.
It’s perfect for coastal homes that lean organic and minimalist rather than nautical.
14. Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball
Skimming Stone is another subtly warm greige, ideal for creating a cozy yet light and airy coastal living room.
It has a soft, slightly creamy quality that makes it feel inviting without overpowering the space.
15. First Light by Benjamin Moore
A coastal living room doesn’t always have to be blue—First Light introduces a delicate, sun-kissed blush that brings a soft, ethereal warmth.
It’s like the glow of the early morning sky, making it a unique yet surprisingly versatile coastal color. Paired with whites and sandy neutrals, it adds a subtle touch of warmth without feeling too pink.
16. Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore
This classic warm greige has just enough depth to feel sophisticated while still working beautifully with a coastal palette.
Revere Pewter is an ideal choice for those who want a bit more warmth and coziness in their coastal living room, especially if your space gets a lot of natural light.
17. Seaside Villa by Behr
If you love the look of soft, sun-washed walls, Seaside Villa is an excellent choice. It’s a delicate, warm neutral with a hint of peachy undertone, giving it that sun-bleached, beachy glow.
This is perfect for a more relaxed, natural coastal aesthetic that leans organic rather than nautical.
Final Thoughts
Each of these coastal paint colors has something special to offer, whether you’re drawn to deep moody blues, soft watery hues, or warm beachy neutrals.
The key to a stunning coastal living room is finding the right balance—mixing light and airy with depth and contrast.
With these colors, you’ll create a coastal space that feels timeless, inviting, and effortlessly beautiful—just like the ocean itself. 🌊✨
