For many people, coastal living is a dream come true. Relaxing on the beach, walking along the sandy shores, listening to the lull of the waves, and taking in the spectacular sunsets are just a few of the perks of seaside living. If you own beachfront property, you’re most likely spending more time in the open air than inside. Whether you enjoy the scenery from a small deck, an elaborate patio, or an enchanting poolside setting, being outdoors is all part of the allure of oceanfront living. But to do so, you need durable, high-quality outdoor furniture that can withstand your coastal climate and lifestyle.
While seaside living presents its own unique challenges, we’re here to help. Humidity, salt air, intense sun, and constant moisture are just a few of the culprits that can lead to the rapid deterioration of your outdoor furniture. And if you own a seasonal beach house, the harsh winters can be equally damaging. When left vulnerable to the elements, outdoor beach furniture can quickly rot, rust, warp, fade, peel, crack, and grow mold if it’s unsuitable for your environment. Salt air and humidity can be especially brutal on decks, outdoor furniture, fabrics, and your home’s exterior. For these reasons, it’s critical to seek out durable, high-quality, waterproof, maintenance-free, yet comfortable furniture that reflects your personal style.
To get you started in your quest for the best outdoor beach furniture, here are some suggestions and tips for selecting the best materials for your blissful oceanside oasis.
Climate Conditions
Climate conditions vary depending on where you live. For instance, oceanside homes on the Eastern seaboard experience vastly different weather conditions than those on the Gulf Coast. However, there are similar elements that most beachfront properties have in common:
- Humidity
- Moisture
- Sand
- Salt Spray
- Wind
- Sun exposure
- Harsh storms
In your search for beach-friendly furniture, ensure all your outdoor pieces are composed of materials resistant to these and other inclement conditions.
Mastering the Materials
Oceanside settings are blissful yet brutal to your outdoor furniture, so be sure the materials of your patio seating, lounge chairs, cushions, and dining pieces can withstand the wear and tear your climate delivers. The best outdoor beach furniture comprises materials that can endure the elements—salt, moisture, humidity, moisture, sand, and wind. Furniture made of aluminum, HDPE, teak, and resin wicker are excellent options. Also, remember that your pieces should have some significant weight to withstand the wind but not be so cumbersome that they’re impossible to move around.
Here’s a handy cheat sheet to get you started. It’s always best to talk to industry professionals before purchasing, as new and improved materials continuously enter the marketplace.
These performance ratings are based solely on the material’s durability in a beachside environment and indicate their suitability for an oceanfront setting. However, keep in mind that the lower-rated materials are not entirely off-limits. They will simply wear out faster and require more maintenance.
Space & Style
Select furniture that complements the coastal ambiance of your beach home. Choose colors, patterns, and designs that reflect the natural beauty of the surroundings while enhancing the overall décor of your outdoor space. Here, chairs from Ann Marie Vering’s new Oliver collection for Brown Jordan emit an organic vibe that befits the setting. Sculptural, low-profile metal frames and weather-proof nautical rope create a fluid, natural aesthetic that complements Vering’s stone-topped Oscar dining table for Brown Jordan.
Before selecting your pieces, always consider the layout and flow of the space to maximize usability and aesthetics. Take measurements of your outdoor space to ensure the furniture fits comfortably without overcrowding.
Rain or Shine
When it comes to beachside patio lounging, make sure your outdoor fabrics can stand up to the elements. Of course, comfort is always a key priority, but you’ll want to seek out performance fabrics resistant to moisture, intense sun, sandy feet, and lots of wear and tear.
Here, Sunbrella pays homage to Pantone’s Color of the Year 2024 13-1023 Peach Fuzz by rolling out a collection of upholstery fabrics incorporating this radiant hue. A trusted performance fabric industry pioneer, Sunbrella has created an array of peachy fabrics, including textured solids, subtle stripes, and geometric patterns that incorporate their proprietary Color to the Core™ technology. This process involves color saturation and UV-stabilized pigments to ensure years of stay-true color and durability.
Functionality & Budget
Choose versatile pieces that can serve multiple functions. For example, opt for a dining set with extendable tables or modular seating arrangements that accommodate different activities. Tropitone’s Six Collection combines style and functionality with an innovative hexagonal design. Constructed with durable aluminum frames and tactile rope detailing, this seating group offers a flexible design you can rearrange for any occasion.
Lastly, remember that outdoor furniture can be pricey, so don’t forget to set a budget. You’ll want to prioritize quality and durability within your budget and invest in high-quality pieces that will last for years rather than opting for cheaper options that may need to be replaced more frequently. Consider the long-term value and enjoyment of your investment.
Here’s to living your best life on the beach! If you’re still searching for your own oceanfront paradise—visit Beach-Homes.com and discover the beauty of coastal living.