Bright, fresh and cheerful, beach style kitchens can make you feel like you’re on vacation all year long. Featuring plenty of bright whites, glassy finishes and an array of blues, this style is ideal if you want to create a welcoming and relaxing space to cook and entertain. There are a number of directions you can go, so if you’re on the lookout for coastal kitchen ideas, read on for more inspiration.

1. Incorporate Organic Kitchen Decor

Beach style doesn’t have to feel dated — you can focus on elegant textures and finishes and keep the Cape Cod motifs to a minimum. Think accents in sea glass blues and rich wood surfaces for a natural, modern-organic look.

2. Add a Beachy Rug

Bring in a little color and texture with a coastal kitchen rug. Look for flat-woven varieties with blue and white stripes, or go for an all-natural jute rug.

3. Use Roman Shades

If you’re looking for just the right curtains, try using Roman shades. Streamlined and chic, you could go with all-white shades or those with a subtle nautical pattern.

4. Choose Light Woods

Whether you’re adding in new countertops or you’re trying to find the perfect kitchen table, lighter woods will give you a windswept, driftwood look.

5. Don’t Shy Away from a Colorful Backsplash

If you’re looking for backsplash ideas, now is your chance to add in a pop of color. Turquoise or navy blue tiles can look gorgeous, and you may even consider using a scalloped seashell shape.

6. Take It in a Farmhouse Direction

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to beach style kitchen decor, so you might consider mixing and matching other design elements. Coastal farmhouse kitchens make use of plenty of bright whites and reclaimed woods, apron style sinks and lantern pendant lights.

7. Pair Blue and Gray

Take things in a west coast, California-inspired direction. For a modern coastal look, opt for grayish blue kitchen cabinets paired with white quartz or marble counters.

8. Classic Cape Cod

If you’re taking on a Cape Cod kitchen remodel, consider going with wood floors, casual open shelves and preppy kitchen towels and mats in navy blue and red.

9. Lighthouse Inspired

When you’re picking out lighting, try to channel a lighthouse aesthetic with rounded, clear glass pendants.

10. Rope and Wood

Perhaps the easiest way to add a bit of beach style to your kitchen is to incorporate natural accents made of chunky rope and weathered wood. Use these materials anywhere, from wall decor to pantry storage bins.