Not many people think of palm trees and tropical fish when they think of Christmas decor, but adding a touch of the Florida Keys to your next holiday will have you wishing for an Island Christmas! As a former Midwest couple, we have found our Christmas spirit in the Florida Keys and many unique ways to blend the magic of Christmas with the laid-back charm of our beautiful island archipelago. Imagine swaying palm trees adorned with twinkling lights, holiday fun in parades and houses decorated in competition with each other … all with the backdrop scent of saltwater mingling with festive aromas.
Get ready to add a tropical vibe to your seasonal decor! Here are our top suggestions for creating the perfect beach-themed Christmas that can be incorporated into any holiday celebration:
Beachy Decor
Seashell Ornaments and Garlands
Transform your Christmas tree with hand-picked seashells and delicate garlands made from driftwood and beachcombed treasures. Traditional Florida Keys colors are pastel pinks, blues and of course the many shades of turquoise that mirror our waters. Try burlap and sand inspired shades mixed with shells and starfish.
Nautical Wreaths
Swap out the traditional evergreen wreath for one made of driftwood, seashells, and starfish. Adorn it with twinkling fairy lights for a magical touch.
Beach Blanket Stockings:
Replace traditional stockings with beach inspired ones or try woven straw bags that can double as a beach bag for the next vacation. Personalize each one with beach-themed patches or embroidery for a special touch.
Sandcastle Centerpieces:
Craft mini sandcastles using real sand and seashells. Place a tea light in each one for a warm, beachy glow. Arrange them as a centerpiece on your dining table. This is also a great time to break out the Christmas cookie cutters and let the kids make shapes in the sand.
Lighthouse Lanterns:
Incorporate lighthouse-themed lanterns to create a cozy ambiance. They not only provide soft lighting but also pay homage to the picturesque lighthouses of the Florida Keys.
Gifts for the Beach-Loving Soul
Custom Beach Jewelry:
Surprise your loved one with a piece of jewelry featuring a special beach or seashell motif, like a pendant or a bracelet.
Beach-Ready Tote Bag:
Gift a stylish, spacious tote bag for carrying beach essentials. Look for ones with waterproof linings for added convenience.
Personalized Beach Towels:
Have beach towels embroidered with names, initials, or meaningful quotes. They’ll be both practical and sentimental.
Sun Protection Kit:
Put together a thoughtful kit with high-quality sunscreen, stylish sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for days spent basking in the sun.
Beach-Themed Books:
Curate a collection of beach-related books, whether it’s a novel set in the Florida Keys, a guide to marine life, or a beautiful photography book capturing the coastal beauty.
This year, swap snowflakes for seashells and pine trees for palm fronds to celebrate a beach-themed Christmas in the Florida Keys. With these decor idea and thoughtful gifts, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime in this sun-soaked paradise. Cheers to a sun-kissed holiday season! 🌴🎄
