How to Create a Relaxed Coastal Christmas at Home
After my daughter’s ballet and jazz class in Bermagui recently, we took a little detour to the headland — and were lucky enough to see whales playing just offshore. A mother swam while her calf breached, full of energy and joy, and we stood there in awe watching them. Moments like that remind me how special our Australian summer is, and how the spirit of joy and ease can flow into the way we celebrate Christmas.
Here on the Far South Coast of NSW, in beautiful Cobargo, we really do have the best of both worlds — close to the ocean, close to the mountains, and surrounded by nature’s calm inspiration.
Christmas in Australia has its own kind of magic — sunshine, sea breezes, and the freedom to make the season as relaxed and joyful as we please. It doesn’t have to be stressful or perfectly planned. In fact, the most memorable celebrations are often the ones that feel effortless — where everyone pitches in, the laughter flows, and the table is filled with simple, fresh food shared with love.
Perhaps this year, you might like to embrace the ease of a coastal Christmas — inspired by our connection to the ocean and a slower, more mindful way of celebrating. Here’s how you can bring that same calm, coastal charm into your home this festive season.
1. Keep the Menu Light and Easy
When the weather is warm, lighter meals always feel right. Think fresh seafood, grilled chicken, and colourful summer salads that look beautiful on the table and are a breeze to prepare. Serve on a separate table so everyone can help themselves — it encourages conversation and takes the pressure off you as the host.
Pair your meal with chilled sparkling water, citrus slices, or a jug of homemade iced tea for a simple and refreshing touch.
2. Create the Coastal Look with Colour and Texture
A coastal Christmas doesn’t mean red and green are off the table — but you can give them a fresh twist by using them as accents while layering cool blues, soft whites and sandy neutrals.
Start with a crisp white, mineral blue or Juniper patterned tablecloth (or table runner), then add accents of blue and white (even a hint of red or green) through napkins, candles, or small decorative pieces.
Coordinate your fabrics with matching patterns from the same collection or incorporate solid colors that complement the hues in the patterned fabric.
Choose materials like rattan, driftwood, ceramic and foliage to add warmth and texture without clutter.
This relaxed palette works beautifully beyond the dining table too — from your Christmas tree to small vignettes around your home. For a touch of seaside magic, bring in whales, seahorses or dolphins in subtle, elegant ways — perhaps an ornament on the tree, hanging from branches in a vase or secured to the napkins on the table.
If you prefer a more refined look, lean towards Hamptons style — clean lines, soft fabrics and timeless coastal elegance.
3. Keep it Calm, Simple and Natural
Christmas should feel calm, not chaotic. Focus on quality over quantity, using natural materials and thoughtful touches that make your guests feel at home.
Here are my three favourite tips for creating a coastal Christmas:
- Keep it natural: Incorporate textures like linen, rattan, foliage and driftwood for easy, coastal charm.
- Lighten the palette: Whites, sand tones and ocean blues create a breezy, coastal mood.
- Add ocean accents: Shells, driftwood or marine motifs give your styling a hint of the sea without overwhelming the space.
4. Add the Finishing Touch with Fragrance
No festive setting is complete without scent. This season, skip the heavy spices and discover a fragrance that feels fresh, clean and coastal.
My Twig & Feather Clear Water Palm Wax Candle Range brings a light, refreshing scent of rosewood with subtle hints of jasmine, bergamot and ylang ylang — the perfect twist on the traditional Christmas fragrance. Its airy, ocean-inspired aroma complements a relaxed summer gathering and adds a sense of calm to your home.
Embrace the Beauty of a Coastal Christmas
Whether you live by the beach or simply love the easy Australian summer style, a coastal Christmas invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and celebrate what really matters — connection, calm, and good company.
Wishing you a relaxed, refreshing and beautifully coastal Christmas.
Cheers,
