How to Create the Perfect Beach-Themed Rental Guests Love

When guests book a beach rental in Miami, they want an experience, not just a place to drop their bags. Vacationers seek more than a bed for the night. They want a beach-themed rental that feels like an outside extension of the beautiful Florida coastline.

To capture this market, your property can't resemble another plain white or wooden Airbnb listing. It's not only about decoration — it's about creating a sense of slipping into a seaside home that's theirs for the weekend.

Why Beach-Themed Rentals Work

People flock to Miami for many reasons — the sun, sand and endless summer vibes. Your rental should capture that energy so your guests' stay feels like an extension of the outdoors. U.S. vacation rentals made up 10% of the market in 2024, so you're up against plenty of competition. A generic setup won't make your property stand out.

Guests should feel surrounded by thoughtful additions that set your beach-themed rental apart from the typical unit. The design should be intentional, reminiscent of a coastal retreat that’s hosted long summers and relaxed afternoons, where occupants can soak in the excitement of the shoreline by day and ease into comfort at night.

How to Decorate a Beach Rental That Impresses

Nautical décor has existed for centuries, but you don’t want your place to be dated. Skip the clichés of plastic starfish or rope knots, as those details scream “purchased from big box stores.” Today’s travelers prefer clean, modern spaces with subtle nods to the sea. 

1. Subtle Beach Palette

A cohesive space naturally mirrors its environment. Choose sandy neutrals, driftwood grays and seafoam greens instead of bright turquoise or anchor prints, which can feel overdone. These lighter bases also help small rooms like condos appear larger.

2. Natural Materials

Organic textures capture the seaside atmosphere effortlessly. Linen curtains, rattan lighting and reclaimed wood tables add character without the clutter of collected shells or jars of sand.

3. Laid-Back, Flexible Furniture

Low-profile couches and modular seating keep the layout adaptable, which is important for large group sizes seeking multi-bedroom vacation homes. Guests will appreciate being able to rearrange seating or use a sofa as an extra bed for a cozy night in.

4. Coastal Art and Accents

Beach towns have an allure you can't find in other places. Centering your art pieces on that idea gives your rental its personality. A single oversized canvas of the Miami shoreline or bold pop art inspired by the famed Wynwood Walls makes a stronger impact than shelves of seashells, which other listings are probably peppered with. It's even better if the pieces come from a local artist, which adds a touch of authenticity. 

5. Updated Exteriors

Guests spend much time outdoors, so the exterior of your beach rental deserves just as much attention as the interior. If you plan to repaint, coastal tones such as green or blue complement the seaside setting and tie the design together. Don’t forget your roof, as it accounts for up to 40% of a home's visual appeal. 

Focus on aesthetics and functionality, especially since summer showers are common. Check the roofing on exterior walls. People should be safe and comfortable in sunny and rainy weather.

6. Balconies and Patios

Light-colored outdoor sofas or woven chairs pair well with blue and white striped cushions. The sun, salty water and sand are unavoidable, so opt for washable and weatherproof fabrics.

7. Lighting

Make the beach rental feel homey by installing warm-toned string lights or recessed deck lighting to create an ambience that does not look touristy. It is a thoughtful addition, especially on stairs and decks, for safety.

8. Landscaping

Vacationers love to snap photos of tropical settings against the blue sky, so choose greenery that enhances the coastal theme. Palms, succulents and simple planters soften hardscapes while echoing the natural environment.

Focus on Functional Comfort 

Reliable internet access is nonnegotiable, whether guests work remotely or simply share their vacation moments on social media. Many even rank Wi-Fi alongside essentials like a tea kettle, television and hair dryer as a make-or-break factor when booking.

For your bedding, layer breathable cotton bedding in white or sand colors. Add blackout curtains in light hues to manage the Florida sun. Open shelving with neutral dishes keeps the coastal feel consistent without overcomplication.

Focusing on both comfort and design also reduces negative reviews. Guests won't overlook a poor mattress even if the aesthetic touches look fresh.

Anchor the Experience, Not Just the Décor

Design alone doesn't carry the experience. Every decision in a beach-themed rental affects how long guests stay, how they review and whether they return. Vacationers expect functionality wrapped in aesthetics for a stay that will win them over. A vacation home that mirrors the Miami coast without looking outdated gives people the sense of staying in a curated retreat rather than just another apartment.

Remember, the goal isn’t to mimic a beach shop but to create an authentic home, as if families have enjoyed summers there for years and your guest is simply the next.

Evelyn Long is a writer that specializes in housing market trends. She is also the editor-in-chief of Renovated Magazine, where she writes essential resources for renters and homeowners. She has contributed to several other publications like the National Association of Realtors and Realty Executives.