How to Create Your Own Backyard Beach

It's not a beach without sand! 

While sand is such a crucial element of a beach environment, using sand in your backyard can be a challenging task. Sand can be used to create a softfall base for play equipment, used in a sandpit, or as a coastal base for a patio area with a firepit. However, sand isn't for everyone! To create a sandy appearance without the mess, invasiveness, or the risk of neighbourhood cats taking advantage of their new giant sandbox, we recommend fine white stones, white river pebbles or even sandstone pavers to create a warm, beachside appearance. A travertine or sandstone crazy pave in a light, sandy colour can also create a beautiful coastal mediterranean look that emulates the warmth and organic nature of sand. 

If you opt for a traditional sandpit as part of your new coastal retreat - ensure it is covered to keep it clean and safe from bugs and animals when not in use and overnight. 

There are a few different directions you can choose when it comes to selecting the style of plants you'd like for your coastal retreat. Whatever you choose, aim to create height with a range of ground cover, midsize plants and tall shady plants, as well as texture, by selecting a different plants shapes and shades of green to create a more luxurious and high end finish.

Arid plants can create a beautiful, coastal appearance - Agave, Dianella, Senecio Serpens, Lomandra, Blue Fescue and Silver Falls Dichondra can create a beautiful, drought tolerant, coastal feel for homes that are looking for a low maintenance feel, and works great for the drier climates of the southern states. Choosing plants with a variety of textures, dense leaves and vibrant greenery will help you to achieve a lush, beachside feeling, even without typical tropical plants!

If you're lucky enough to live in the tropical climates of the northern states, tropical plants that thrive in humidity can be used to create a luscious beachside oasis. Strelizia Nicolai (Giant bird of paradise), Heliconia, Canna Lilly, Palms, Aspidistra (Cast Iron Plant) and  Dichondra Repens will create a lush, green appearance that will make you feel like you've stepped into a beachside resort. 

Frame your beach backyard by disguising fences to create a more sophisticated garden finish. Painting your fence a dark colour like monument can make green foliage really pop, or opt for a light sandy tone or white to add to the bohemian look. 

Using draping plants on retaining walls can create a lush effect that makes your backyard appear more continuous, and removing harsh borders from paths and patios will help to create an organic, beachside feel - use low lying ground cover plants next to footpaths and around the perimeter of your patio areas to create a softer edge, or surround pavers for footpaths with grass or pebbles for an unstructured and truly beachy look. 

Curves and irregular garden borders will soften your space and help create a relaxed, calm feel in your backyard. 

Nothing quite says 'beachside' like beautiful lapping waves.

While a pool is an amazing option, water features and ponds can also provide the perfect accompaniment to your beach backyard. Mimicking the soothing sound of the ocean, creating a source of moving water in your backyard can help create a sense of beachside bliss. Fountains, waterfalls, and even a pond with a bubbler can create a beautiful and soothing sense of tranquility in your back yard.

Timber is a beautiful option to add diversity and texture to your coastal backyard, reminiscent of  timber piers and whitewashed coastal shacks, timber adds dimension and warmth without detracting from the overall look and feel of your backyard. A timber deck, timber furniture & bench seating, or timber screening can add a stunning and versatile look to your space. 

There are certain structural accents that are undeniably coastal - With a throwback to vintage Miami style, Breezeblocks have made a massive comeback in the landscape design world, and can make an incredible impact in your beach backyard! 

Other accents to create a swoon-worthy beach space include mosaic or feature tiling in coastal hues (or even add in a splash of pink for a truly Miami Beach infused style!), Festoon Lighting, a fabric-draped open air pergola, or a feature daybed to lounge in the sun. 

If you do happen to live near the beach or are lucky enough to have your own pool, a statement shower area outside can elevate your space while adding practical function. 

Creating the perfect beachside retreat means choosing decor items that evoke a feeling of calm and luxury. 

Shading areas with light coloured umbrellas creates an immediate beachside feeling, while light coloured accents in tans, whites, greens and blues create a sense of inviting serenity. Throw blankets, pendant lighting, rugs and artwork can all work to create a space that can rival even the most high-end resort!

Rattan, timber and canvas textures add to the coastal feel, while patterns like traditional nautical stripes can create the look of an exclusive beachside cabana.