22 Coastal Wedding Centerpieces You Can DIY

Planning a coastal wedding and want to add a personal touch without breaking the bank? I feel you. There’s something magical about DIY centerpieces—they’re budget-friendly, unique, and let’s be honest, way more fun than ordering something generic. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of saying, “Oh, that? I made it myself.” *hair flip*

Whether you’re going for a breezy beach vibe, a nautical theme, or something elegantly seaside chic, I’ve rounded up 23 coastal wedding centerpiece ideas that you can totally DIY. No fancy skills required—just a little creativity and maybe a glue gun (because let’s face it, glue guns solve everything). Ready to dive in? Let’s get crafty!

1. Driftwood and Candle Centerpieces

Driftwood is basically nature’s free decor. Gather a few pieces (or buy them if your local beach frowns on scavenging), sand them lightly, and arrange them in the center of your table. Add some pillar candles in varying heights, and boom—instant coastal charm. Bonus points if the candles flicker like fireflies at sunset.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about wax dripping, use LED candles. They’re safer, reusable, and won’t leave your tablecloth looking like a modern art project.

A rustic wooden table with a centerpiece of weathered driftwood pieces arranged artfully around tall white pillar candles. Soft candlelight casts a warm glow, and scattered seashells add subtle coastal flair. The background is blurred, suggesting an intimate outdoor wedding setting.

2. Seashell Terrariums

Terrariums are like tiny, low-maintenance ecosystems, and when you add seashells, they scream “beach wedding.” Grab a glass vase or bowl, layer sand at the bottom, toss in some small shells, and top with air plants or succulents. Easy, right? Plus, your guests can take them home as favors—double win.

FYI, succulents are basically immortal, so if you forget to water them post-wedding, no guilt. They’ll survive your honeymoon just fine.

A clear glass terrarium filled with fine white sand, scattered seashells, and vibrant green succulents. The terrarium sits on a linen tablecloth, with a soft ocean breeze ruffling the edges. Sunlight filters through the glass, creating delicate shadows.

3. Rope-Wrapped Jars with Fairy Lights

Rope = instant nautical vibes. Take simple mason jars, wrap them tightly with jute rope (hot glue is your BFF here), and pop in some battery-operated fairy lights. Hang a tiny anchor charm from the rim if you’re feeling extra. These look especially dreamy at dusk, casting a soft, twinkly glow over your tables.

Warning: Guests might try to steal these. They’re that cute.

A cluster of mason jars wrapped in natural jute rope, each filled with warm fairy lights that glow softly. The jars are arranged on a weathered wooden table, with a hint of ocean visible in the background. A small anchor charm dangles from one jar.

4. Starfish and Sand Dollar Place Settings

Skip the traditional place cards and use starfish or sand dollars instead. Write guests’ names in calligraphy (or print them on pretty paper and glue them on) and place one at each seat. Simple, elegant, and totally on-theme. Plus, they double as favors—because who doesn’t want a starfish souvenir?

Just make sure to use ethically sourced dried starfish. Live ones are a hard no (for obvious reasons).

A close-up of a beautifully set table with crisp white linens. Each place setting features a sand dollar with a handwritten name in elegant script. A sprig of greenery and a single seashell add subtle texture. The ocean glimmers in the distance.

5. Floating Orchids in Glass Bowls

For a touch of elegance, float white orchids in shallow glass bowls filled with water. Add a few drops of blue food coloring for a subtle ocean hue, or leave it clear for a minimalist look. Scatter tiny seashells around the base, and you’ve got a centerpiece that’s equal parts chic and coastal.

Orchids can be pricey, so check with local florists for deals on bulk blooms. Or fake it—high-quality silk orchids look just as stunning.

A crystal-clear glass bowl filled with water, where delicate white orchids float gracefully. The bowl sits on a mirrored tray, reflecting the flowers and scattered seashells. Soft candlelight enhances the ethereal vibe.

6. Coral Centerpiece Clusters

Faux coral pieces are a gorgeous way to bring the ocean to your tables. Group a few bleached coral branches in the center, surround them with tea lights, and maybe tuck in a few sprigs of eucalyptus for greenery. It’s organic, textured, and totally Insta-worthy.

Real coral is a no-go (protect the reefs, people), but the fake stuff looks incredibly realistic these days.

A tablescape featuring clusters of bleached faux coral intertwined with eucalyptus leaves. Tea lights in glass holders flicker around the arrangement, casting a warm glow. The table is set with ivory linens and gold-rimmed glassware for a luxe touch.

7. Nautical Rope-Wrapped Bottles

Upcycle old wine or liquor bottles by wrapping them in thick nautical rope. Leave some glass exposed for a modern twist, or go full-coverage for a rustic feel. Stuff a single stem of baby’s breath or a dried palm leaf in each bottle, and line them up down the center of your table. Simple, cheap, and oh-so-coastal.

Pro tip: Soak the bottles in warm, soapy water to remove labels easily. No one wants a “Cabernet Sauvignon” centerpiece.

A row of glass bottles wrapped in thick white and blue nautical rope, each holding a single dried palm leaf. The bottles are arranged down a long wooden table, with the ocean visible through a nearby window. Sunlight streams in, highlighting the texture of the rope.

8. Beach Glass Candle Holders

Collect sea glass (or buy it if you’re not near a beach) and glue it around plain glass votives. The light will catch the colored glass, creating a dreamy, watery effect. Mix blues and greens for a mermaid-worthy vibe, or stick to clear glass for a more subtle look.

If you’re using real candles, keep an eye on them—sea glass can get hot. Safety first, folks.

A close-up of a glass votive covered in glued-on sea glass in shades of blue and green. The candle inside casts a soft, dappled light across the table. A few loose pieces of sea glass are scattered nearby, catching the light.

9. Mini Sailboat Centerpieces

Tiny sailboats = instant whimsy. Grab miniature wooden sailboats (check craft stores or Etsy), paint them white or navy, and place them on a mirror “lake” in the center of your table. Add a few tea lights around them for a romantic glow. Bonus: These make adorable keepsakes for guests.

Just don’t let your drunk uncle try to race them in the champagne fountain. Trust me.

A round mirror placed on a linen tablecloth acts as a “lake” for tiny white sailboats. Tea lights in gold holders surround the mirror, their flames flickering. The scene is playful yet elegant, with a coastal breeze suggested by softly billowing curtains in the background.

10. Sand-Filled Lanterns

Fill clear glass lanterns with a layer of sand, then add a candle on top. For extra flair, write your initials or wedding date in the sand with a skewer before placing the candle. These are perfect for outdoor weddings—wind-resistant and oh-so-romantic.

If you’re extra, sprinkle a little gold glitter in the sand. Because why not?

A glass lantern filled with fine white sand, a single white candle resting on top. The sand is etched with a couple’s initials inside a heart. The lantern sits on a wooden table, with string lights overhead creating a magical ambiance.

11. Anchors Away! Nautical Compass Displays

Hit up thrift stores for vintage compasses or buy new ones if you’re short on time. Arrange them in the center of your tables with a small candle or a sprig of greenery in the center. It’s a subtle nod to nautical adventures—perfect for couples who love to travel.

Extra credit: Print out little maps of your favorite coastal spots and tuck them under the compasses. Cue the “awws.”

A vintage brass compass sits open on a linen napkin, its needle pointing north. A small white candle burns beside it, and a sprig of rosemary adds a touch of green. The table setting is simple but evocative, with a faint ocean breeze suggested by the napkin’s slight ripple.

12. Driftwood and Succulent Towers

Stack pieces of driftwood vertically and glue small succulents into the crevices. It’s like a mini coastal garden! Place these towers at varying heights for visual interest, and maybe tuck in a few seashells for good measure. Low-maintenance and stunning—what’s not to love?

Succulents are basically the cats of the plant world: they thrive on neglect. Perfect for busy brides.

A vertical arrangement of driftwood pieces stacked artfully, with small succulents nestled into the cracks. The tower sits on a slate slab, surrounded by scattered seashells. Soft sunlight filters through, highlighting the textures of wood and plants.

13. Pearlescent Shell Clusters

Gather an assortment of pearlescent shells (think abalone, mother-of-pearl, or even painted options) and arrange them in a low, wide bowl. Add a few drops of essential oil to the shells for a subtle scent—lavender or ocean breeze, maybe. It’s a centerpiece that doubles as aromatherapy. Fancy!

Just don’t let Aunt Linda pocket the shells before dinner. We’ve all been there.

A wide, shallow bowl filled with iridescent shells in shades of pink, blue, and white. A few drops of essential oil glisten on the shells, and a soft haze suggests a light scent. The bowl sits on a blush-colored tablecloth, with gold flatware adding a luxe touch.

14. Rope-Wrapped Bud Vases

Take small bud vases (or even test tubes!) and wrap their bases in thin rope. Fill each with a single stem—think baby’s breath, a sprig of lavender, or a tiny wildflower. Group them in clusters of three or five for maximum impact. Simple, sweet, and totally coastal.

These are also great for repurposing after the wedding—stick them on your windowsill for a daily dose of happy.

A cluster of thin glass bud vases wrapped in delicate rope, each holding a single stem of baby’s breath. The vases are arranged on a weathered wooden tray, with sunlight streaming through the flowers. The ocean glints in the background.

15. Beachy Book Stack Centerpieces

Hit up thrift stores for old hardcover books with neutral or blue-toned covers. Stack a few, tie them with twine, and top with a small candle or a seashell. For extra personality, choose books about the ocean, travel, or love poems. It’s literary charm meets coastal chic.

Pro tip: Spray the pages with a light coat of gold paint for a subtle shimmer. Because books deserve glitter too.

A stack of vintage hardcover books tied with twine, topped with a white candle and a single starfish. The books’ spines show faded titles about the sea and sailing. The arrangement sits on a lace table runner, with a soft focus on other tables in the background.

16. Driftwood Candle Rings

Cut small pieces of driftwood into rings (or buy pre-made ones) and place a pillar candle in the center. Surround the base with dried lavender or eucalyptus for a pop of color and scent. These are perfect for long farm tables—space them evenly for a cohesive look.

Warning: These might make you want to redecorate your entire house in coastal decor. Resist the urge (or don’t).

A driftwood ring holds a white pillar candle, surrounded by sprigs of dried lavender. The arrangement sits on a burlap runner, with soft candlelight illuminating the wood’s natural grooves. The background is slightly blurred, suggesting a rustic-chic wedding venue.

17. Glass Floats in Netting

Glass fishing floats are a classic coastal decor item. Nestle a few into a piece of draped fishing net in the center of your table, and add a tea light or two for warmth. It’s a nod to old-school nautical charm, with a modern twist.

FYI, real vintage floats can be pricey, but glass-blown replicas are just as pretty and way more budget-friendly.

A cluster of blue and green glass fishing floats nestled in a draped fishing net, with tea lights scattered around them. The net spills artfully across a white tablecloth, and the floats catch the light beautifully. The ocean is visible in the distance, adding to the theme.

18. Painted Seashell Candles

Gather large seashells (like conch or scallop shells), clean them thoroughly, and pour melted wax into them to make mini candles. Add a wick before the wax sets, and voilà—adorable shell candles! Paint the edges gold or leave them natural for a more organic look.

These also make great favors. Just include a little note that says, “Light our love!” (Cheesy? Maybe. Cute? Definitely.)

A collection of large seashells filled with creamy white candles, their wicks flickering softly. Some shells have gold-painted edges, catching the light. They’re arranged on a mirrored tray, with a few loose pearls scattered around for glamour.

19. Coastal Herb Gardens

Plant small herbs like rosemary, thyme, or lavender in tiny terra-cotta pots and arrange them as centerpieces. Tie twine around each pot and add a little tag with the herb’s name. Not only do they look cute, but they smell amazing—and guests can take them home to plant!

Rosemary is especially fitting—it symbolizes remembrance. Aww.

A cluster of small terra-cotta pots filled with fragrant herbs, each tied with twine and labeled. The pots are arranged on a wooden slab, with a few sprigs of fresh herbs scattered around. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a warm, inviting scene.

20. Starfish and Greenery Garlands

String small starfish onto a garland of eucalyptus or ivy and drape it down the center of your table. Add a few tea lights for twinkle, and you’ve got a centerpiece that’s effortlessly elegant. Plus, it’s super easy to customize—swap starfish for sand dollars if you prefer.

This also works for hanging above sweetheart tables or along ceremony aisles. Versatility for the win!

A long garland of eucalyptus dotted with small white starfish, draped down the center of a wooden table. Tea lights in glass holders twinkle along the garland, and the ocean is visible through a nearby window. The scene is relaxed yet refined.

21. Nautical Map Table Runners

Use vintage nautical maps as table runners for a wanderlust-worthy vibe. Scatter a few shells or compasses on top, and maybe add a candle or two. It’s a great way to incorporate your love of travel—or just pretend you’re a pirate for the day. Arrr!

If you can’t find real vintage maps, print some out and tea-stain them for an aged look. Crafty deception at its finest.

A long wooden table covered with a vintage nautical map as a runner. A few brass compasses, seashells, and tea lights are scattered on top. The map shows faded coastlines and sailing routes, adding to the adventurous vibe.

22. Coral and Crystal Accents

Mix faux coral pieces with clear crystals or geodes for a luxe coastal look. The contrast between the organic coral and the sparkly crystals is *chef’s kiss*. Arrange them on a mirrored tray for extra glam, or keep it simple with a wooden base for rustic charm.

This is your excuse to buy that giant geode you’ve been eyeing. “But honey, it’s for the wedding!”