30 Simple Nautical Nursery Ideas

Planning a nursery theme shouldn’t feel like navigating choppy waters.

Are you worried that anchors and sailboats will look too cheesy or childish?

The secret to a high-end look is mixing classic coastal elements with clean, modern design.

Use these easy, budget-friendly ideas to create a chic nautical haven your little sailor will love.

1. Sharp Blue and White Stripes

Stripes are the backbone of the nautical style. Use sharp navy and white stripes on one accent wall behind the crib. This high-contrast look provides instant visual interest without needing expensive artwork.

• Keep the stripes horizontal to make the room feel wider.
• Use painter’s tape to ensure extremely clean lines.
• Pair with solid white furniture to keep the space calm.

Pro Tip: If painting stripes feels too hard, look for removable peel-and-stick wallpaper with a classic stripe pattern.

2. Rope-Wrapped Mirror

Add texture with natural fibers like jute or sisal rope. A simple round mirror wrapped tightly in thick rope instantly looks like a ship’s porthole. This piece works perfectly over a dresser or changing table.

• Choose a mirror with a simple frame for easy DIY wrapping.
• The rough texture of the rope contrasts nicely with soft nursery bedding.
• Look for a warm, natural colored rope, not bleached white.

Pro Tip: If buying one is too much, you can easily hot glue thick manila rope around the edge of a cheap thrift store mirror.

3. Simple Ship Wheel Decor

A ship wheel adds an iconic nautical touch without clutter. Choose a simple, weathered wood or painted white version. Hang it solo above the bookshelf or use it as the centerpiece of a gallery wall.

• Avoid overly shiny or plastic-looking wheels.
• Weathered gray wood provides a sophisticated, beachy look.
• Ensure it is secured tightly and far above the crib for safety.

Pro Tip: Use a distressed white finish to keep the room light and avoid a pirate theme feeling.

4. Anchor Print Crib Sheet

You don’t need giant anchors everywhere; use subtle pattern repeats on soft goods. A crisp white crib sheet featuring small, repeating navy anchors adds charm right where the baby sleeps. It’s an easy way to commit to the theme.

• Focus on 100% cotton sheets for comfort and breathability.
• Pair the patterned sheet with a solid white crib skirt.
• Use small, delicate anchor prints, not massive cartoon ones.

Pro Tip: Crib sheets are easy and cheap to swap out, so buy a few different patterns to keep the look fresh.

5. Whale Themed Mobile

The mobile is a key focal point above the crib. Instead of generic animals, choose felt whales, sailboats, or little clouds. This piece adds soft color and motion to keep baby entertained.

• Look for hand-stitched felt mobiles for a high-quality feel.
• Stick to soft colors like gray, powder blue, and white.
• Ensure the mobile hangs securely and is out of reach when the baby stands.

Pro Tip: A musical mobile that plays soft sounds is a functional piece of decor for winding down at night.

6. Lighthouse Table Lamp

Lighting can really set the scene. Choose a table lamp for the dresser or side table that mimics the look of a lighthouse or coastal buoy. The light fixture itself becomes a themed accessory.

• Use a soft, warm light bulb for nighttime changes.
• A painted wooden base with a simple white shade works best.
• Place the lamp next to the rocker for late-night feeding visibility.

Pro Tip: Look for lamps with a subtle distressed finish rather than a glossy plastic look for better quality.

7. Woven Storage Baskets

Every nursery needs storage, so use baskets that fit the theme. Large woven baskets made of seagrass or rattan look coastal and are perfect for storing blankets and toys. They keep clutter hidden stylishly.

• Use tall, sturdy baskets that hold their shape.
• Place one next to the changing table for dirty laundry.
• The natural color adds warmth against blue or white walls.

Pro Tip: Look for baskets that have rope handles for an extra dose of nautical texture.

8. Lifesaver Ring Wall Art

A classic white and red lifesaver ring is an instantly recognizable piece of nautical decor. Use a decorative, lightweight version. It adds a necessary pop of bright red color to an otherwise blue and white palette.

• Hang it securely with heavy-duty picture wire.
• Avoid placing it directly over the crib area.
• Ensure the material is lightweight wood or foam for safety.

Pro Tip: If red is too bright for your room, look for rings painted in navy and light blue instead.

9. Decorative Wooden Oars

A pair of painted wooden oars leaned in a corner or hung horizontally makes a strong statement. Choose oars painted with simple stripes or a distressed white finish. This is a very budget-friendly way to fill large wall space.

• Look for lightweight decorative oars, not functional ones.
• Lean them in a corner next to the rocker for a casual look.
• If hanging, ensure they are securely mounted to studs.

Pro Tip: Paint your own stripes on cheap unfinished wooden paddles for a fun, personalized DIY project.

10. Soft Coastal Gray Walls

To avoid an overly bright or cartoonish look, swap pure white walls for a very light, sandy gray or pale driftwood color. This provides a calm, neutral backdrop that mimics beach sand and driftwood.

• The gray undertone keeps the blue accessories feeling sophisticated.
• Test three different gray samples before committing to a shade.
• Use a matte finish paint for a soft, calming effect.

Pro Tip: A warm gray is easier to decorate with than a cool gray, especially in rooms that get less sunlight.

11. Round Porthole Mirror

A mirror designed to look like a ship’s porthole is perfect above a dresser. Look for one with a thick, brass or bronze frame. This instantly adds a historical, high-end feel that avoids looking generic.

• Choose a mirror with a heavy-duty metal frame.
• The reflective surface helps make the nursery look bigger.
• Hang it at a height where you can easily see yourself while changing baby.

Pro Tip: Grouping two smaller porthole mirrors together creates more visual impact than one large one.

12. Sailboat Themed Bookends

The bookshelf is a great place to add small, functional decor. Heavy wooden sailboat bookends keep books tidy while reinforcing the theme. Choose simple, minimalist white or natural wood designs.

• Bookends should be heavy enough to hold up board books.
• Look for painted wood or carved stone versions for quality.
• Keep the top shelf organized and clear of clutter.

Pro Tip: These bookends can easily transition to a toddler’s room or even an office later on.

13. Blue and White Striped Rug

A soft area rug defines the space and provides comfort for tummy time. A large rug with subtle blue and white stripes brings in color without needing paint. Make sure the material is soft and easy to clean.

• Choose an indoor/outdoor rug material for easy spot cleaning.
• Place the rug mostly under the crib and rocker.
• A braided or textured rug adds depth compared to a flat printed one.

Pro Tip: Look for a rug that features varying shades of blue rather than just one solid navy for a more complex look.

14. Simple Rope Tiebacks

Swap standard curtain hardware for thick, twisted rope tiebacks. This small detail instantly makes your window treatments feel like they belong on a ship. It’s a cheap swap that has huge style impact.

• Use thick manila or cotton rope for a sturdy look.
• Pair them with crisp, white linen curtains.
• Ensure the rope is tied securely to the wall hook.

Pro Tip: Use brass boat cleats instead of standard hooks to hold the rope for the ultimate nautical hardware upgrade.

15. Use Real Shell Accents

Use natural elements collected from the beach to decorate shelves and tabletops. A few large, clean conch shells or pieces of driftwood add authenticity. This is a free and effective way to decorate.

• Group shells in clear glass jars or bowls.
• Ensure all shells are clean and polished before placing them in the nursery.
• Keep small items out of reach of little hands.

Pro Tip: If you don’t live near the coast, you can buy large bags of decorative shells very cheaply online or at craft stores.

16. Dark Wood Nursery Furniture

While white furniture is classic, choosing a dark cherry or espresso wood for the crib and dresser adds depth and weight. This prevents the room from feeling too light or airy and makes it look more traditional.

• The dark wood pops against pale blue or gray walls.
• Look for simple, clean lines in the furniture design.
• Ensure the crib is certified safe and meets current standards.

Pro Tip: Mix materials by pairing a dark wood crib with a white or woven basket changing table for contrast.

17. Compass Rose Wall Art

The compass rose is a subtle, elegant symbol of exploration and direction. Use a framed print or a simple metal wall hanging of a compass rose. It adds a sophisticated, mature touch to the space.

• Choose a monochromatic color scheme for the art (like black and white).
• Hang it centrally above the changing table.
• Avoid overly rustic or distressed finishes.

Pro Tip: Look for vintage map reproductions that feature a prominent compass rose in the corner.

18. Navy Blue Glider Chair

The rocker or glider is the most used piece of furniture. A navy blue upholstered chair grounds the room and provides a rich color block. It’s an investment piece that will last through many years.

• Choose a chair with high arms for comfortable feeding.
• Ensure the fabric is durable and stain-resistant.
• Pair with a light gray or white throw blanket.

Pro Tip: If a new glider is too pricey, buy a used one and look into having it professionally cleaned or reupholstered in a durable navy fabric.

19. Fishing Net Crib Canopy

Drape a lightweight, clean decorative fishing net over the corner of the crib or the reading nook. This adds a fun, textural element that feels like being on a dock. Make sure it is hung high and secured tightly.

• Use white or light beige netting, not dark green.
• Hang a few small, lightweight starfish or plastic crab ornaments on the net.
• Keep the net away from the baby’s reach.

Pro Tip: Avoid using anything with actual hooks or heavy metal on the netting for safety reasons.

20. Framed Sand Dollar Art

Instead of cartoons, use simple, elegant prints of coastal items. Framed prints of sand dollars, seashells, or small sea horses look sophisticated and clean. Use matching simple white frames for a unified look.

• Create a small gallery wall of three to five matching prints.
• Look for watercolor illustrations rather than photographs.
• Hang them at eye level when standing next to the crib.

Pro Tip: Download high-quality digital prints and print them yourself at a local shop to save money on expensive framed art.

21. Brass Drawer Pulls

Upgrade cheap dresser or changing table hardware with shiny brass or bronze drawer pulls. Choose pulls shaped like small anchors, cleats, or simple round knobs. This small change makes standard furniture look custom.

• Ensure the size fits the existing holes in the furniture.
• Brass adds a touch of warmth and luxury.
• Use a matte brass finish instead of highly polished gold.

Pro Tip: Mix and match a few different nautical shapes on the same dresser for a unique, curated look.

22. Faux Shiplap Accent Wall

The look of vertical or horizontal shiplap instantly makes a room feel like a coastal cottage. Use thin plywood strips or specialized peel-and-stick panels to create this look cheaply on one wall.

• Paint the shiplap bright white or a very pale blue.
• Horizontal boards make the room feel wider.
• This textured wall requires less additional decoration.

Pro Tip: Measure carefully and use a nickel or a dime as a spacer between the boards for perfect gaps.

23. Colorful Signal Flag Banner

Signal flags used by ships are brightly colored and geometric. A garland or banner of these flags hung across the window or above the door adds a fun, playful pop of color without being too busy.

• Look for cloth flags rather than paper ones.
• The flags add primary colors (red, yellow) in small doses.
• Hang securely out of the baby’s reach.

Pro Tip: Learn what the different flags mean and spell out the baby’s first initial using the alphabet flags.

24. Cute Watercolor Sea Animals

For artwork that is gentle and sweet, choose watercolor prints of sea creatures like jellyfish, crabs, or octopuses. The soft edges and light colors are perfect for a calming nursery environment.

• Use light-colored frames, such as white or natural wood.
• Group them in threes or fours for a unified display.
• Avoid overly cartoonish or aggressive looking animals.

Pro Tip: Use budget-friendly poster hangers instead of heavy traditional frames for a modern, simple look.

25. Nautical Pennant Flags

A simple string of triangular pennant flags in navy, white, and red is a classic way to decorate. Drape them across the top of the crib wall or along a shelf. They add a festive, celebratory feel.

• Choose fabric or felt flags that hold their shape well.
• A garland that combines solid colors and stripes looks great.
• This is an easy decoration to move around as the baby grows.

Pro Tip: Make your own pennants using leftover fabric scraps from other nursery projects for a cohesive look.

26. Maximize Natural Light

A bright room feels more like the open sea. Keep window treatments light and airy to let in as much sunlight as possible. Natural light instantly makes the space feel cleaner and larger.

• Use sheer white linen curtains that filter the light.
• Ensure you have blackout shades installed for nap time.
• Keep the windowsills clear of clutter.

Pro Tip: Hang curtain rods higher and wider than the window frame to make the windows look bigger.

27. Ship Lantern Sconces

If you are updating the lighting, look for wall sconces that resemble old ship lanterns or caged lights. These provide soft ambient lighting and add a cool industrial touch that balances the softness of the nursery.

• Use brass or oil-rubbed bronze finishes.
• Install them on a dimmer switch for nighttime use.
• Ensure the bulb is covered and not exposed.

Pro Tip: If you can’t hardwire new lights, look for battery-operated wall lamps that mimic this style.

28. Striped Throw Pillows

Dress up the rocking chair or glider with comfortable throw pillows. Use pillows featuring classic navy and white stripes or a simple anchor motif. They add layers of comfort and style.

• Look for durable cotton or linen covers.
• Use a mix of one striped pillow and one solid navy pillow.
• Ensure the pillow is comfortable for back support during long nights.

Pro Tip: Pillows are an easy, inexpensive way to incorporate the red accent color without committing to painting a wall.

29. Vintage Map Wallpaper

Use a subtle, vintage-style world map wallpaper on one wall. Maps evoke travel and exploration, fitting perfectly with a sailor theme. Choose a muted, aged color palette rather than bright primary colors.

• Peel-and-stick map wallpaper is easy to install and remove later.
• The map provides an educational element as the child grows.
• Use light-colored frames and decor against the map wall.

Pro Tip: Look for maps that focus on the oceans and coastlines rather than strictly political boundaries.

30. Pops of Bright Red

Nautical style often includes red, but too much can feel intense for a baby’s room. Use small pops of bright red sparingly on accessories like a book spine, a small toy boat, or the trim of a blanket. This adds necessary energy.

• Use red only on items that are easy to swap out.
• A red striped border on a white blanket works well.
• Red looks best next to crisp white and deep navy.

Pro Tip: Try using an antique red wooden toolbox as storage on top of the dresser for a vintage feel.

You don’t need a massive budget to create a beautiful, cohesive nautical nursery.

By focusing on classic stripes, natural textures like rope and wood, and thoughtful accessories, you can easily pull off a high-end coastal look. Now go set sail on your decorating adventure!