A guide to some of the best coastal coffee table books to inspire you
As I sit in my favorite nook by the window, gazing at the rhythmic dance of the waves and the sun-kissed shores, my mind wanders into the world of coastal coffee table books.
These enchanting volumes go beyond mere adornments; they’re gateways to the serene and picturesque realm of coastal living.
Dive into the pages of these captivating volumes that showcase breathtaking seascapes and encapsulate the essence of coastal living, making them the perfect companions for coffee enthusiasts and admirers of coastal beauty.
From captivating imagery to design inspiration, let’s navigate the pages of the coffee table books and adventure books together and discover the unique allure that coastal coffee table books bring into our homes.
Join me as I explore the top picks that seamlessly blend stunning imagery with captivating narratives, bringing the allure of the coast right to your living room.
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Coastal Coffee Table Books – My top picks
| Category | Name | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best under $10 | Palms |     | Check here |
| Best for Travelers | Into the Wild |   | Check here |
| Best for suspense | The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo |   | Check here |
| Best for young adults | Harry Potter Books |   | Check here |
| Best classic read | The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn |   | Check here |
| Best movie book | Life of Pi |   | Check here |
1. Coastal by Gray Malin
I cannot rave enough about Gray Malin’s new coffee table book, Coastal. As a lover of beach coffee table books, this collection of aerial beach photography truly blew me away.
Malin’s signature style of capturing stunning aerial views of beaches worldwide is on full display here, showcasing breathtaking images of secluded coves, famous hotspots, and everything in between.
His attention to detail, color, and composition in each photo is remarkable. Coastal takes you on a journey across the United States, showcasing the best of both well-known and hidden gems.
The beaches of Hawaii, the East Coast, and the West Coast all make an appearance, as well as some international locations.
My personal favorites include the pebbled beaches of Northern Michigan and the enchanting shores of Nantucket.
If you loved Malin’s previous beach book, Beaches, then you simply must add Coastal to your collection. It is a stunning collection that will transport you to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
2. Beaches by Gray Malin
I absolutely love flipping through the pages of Gray Malin’s Beaches, one of the coolest coffee table books I own.
As someone who is always up for adventure, his aerial photographs give me a visual escape to some of the most stunning beaches worldwide.
From Sydney to Cancun, Barcelona to Cape Town, Malin captures the spirit of wanderlust and adventure in his stunning shots.
Even more impressive is that he takes these photos from doorless helicopters!
The result is a collection of playful, awe-inspiring images celebrating light, shape, and perspective. I can’t help but feel a sense of summer bliss when I look through this book.
Gray Malin truly has a gift for creating art that combines travel, luxury, and a love for interior design.
Beaches by Gray Malin is a must-have for anyone who appreciates beautiful photography and the thrill of exploration.
3. Coastlines: At the Water’s Edge by Emily Nathan
There’s just something special about coastlines and waterways that beckons us to explore their beauty and wonder.
When I picked up Emily Nathan’s Coastlines: At the Water’s Edge, a stunning coastal coffee table book, I knew I was in for a treat.
The photography collection takes us on a wanderlust-inspiring journey to some of the world’s most beautiful waterways, including tropical beaches in Hawaii, icy fjords in Greenland, lush mangrove swamps in the Cuban Cayos, and forested islands in Vietnam.
It’s more than just a photography collection; it’s a treasure trove of curated travel information that armchair travelers and water-lovers alike will enjoy.
With hundreds of awe-inspiring photos and stories of far-flung locations, this book transports you to these tranquil places and their vast and varied shores.
4. The Life & Love of the Sea by Lewis Blackwell
I must admit, I’ve always been captivated by the ocean. Its vastness always fills me with awe, and the creatures that call it home are miraculous.
That’s why I was over the moon when I discovered The Life & Love of the Sea by Lewis Blackwell.
As the author of two of my favorite nature coffee table books, The Life & Loves of Trees and The Life & Loves of the Forest, I knew I was in for a treat.
And Blackwell didn’t disappoint. Through stunning underwater photography from the world’s leading marine and nature photographers, this book takes readers on a breathtaking visual tour of the ocean.
From the coasts and beaches to the fantastic creatures beneath the surface, The Life & Love of the Sea offers various incredible images that truly showcase the ocean’s power and diversity.
If you’re looking for a coffee table book that will inspire and amazes you, look no further than this gem.
5. The Book of Palms by H. Walter Lack
I have recently stumbled upon an exquisite book that I simply cannot stop raving about. The Book of Palms by H. Walter Lack is a true masterpiece that takes you on a journey through the natural world like never before.
As someone passionate about plants and nature, I was thrilled to discover this encyclopedic treasury of 240 stunning chromolithographic illustrations.
The book is based on von Martius’s expeditions through Brazil and Peru, and it’s a catalog of all known genera of the palm family.
What’s unique about this book is that it includes cross-sectioned diagrams that accurately convey these mighty trees’ architecture and color landscapes showing various palms – often standing alone in simple and elegant beauty.
This classy coffee table book is a must-have for anyone who loves botany or just appreciates stunning visual art.
6. Clark Little: The Art of Waves
I have always been fascinated by the beauty and power of the ocean. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the Art of Waves by Clark Little.
As a surfer and photographer, Little has developed an uncanny ability to capture the most remarkable images of waves from the inside out.
His photographs are deceptively peaceful, yet they remind us of the incredible force of nature that we often take for granted.
Little’s work has garnered a devoted following, and his coffee table book of photographs is a must-have for any ocean lover.
I love how his pictures capture the intricacy and complexity of waves, revealing the stunning artistry within the chaos.
If you’re looking for the best surf coffee table books with a fresh perspective on the ocean, Clark Little’s The Art of Waves is not to be missed.
7. At Home on the Water by Jaci Conry
There’s just something about waterfront living that is so alluring. It’s hard to imagine a more peaceful or serene setting than a home perched right on the water’s edge.
For decades, families have been retreating to the coast to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, and At Home on the Water by Jaci Conry offers a glimpse into this world of relaxation and rejuvenation.
With interviews with both the homeowners and the designers, this coffee table book features twelve stunning homes on the coasts and the gulf.
The photography is breathtaking, and the history of coastal living is informative and engaging.
As someone who has always been drawn to beach house coffee table books, this one is worth adding to your collection.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next vacation home or just want to daydream about life on the water, At Home on the Water is a must-read.
8. Wish I Was Here: Sebastiaan Bedaux
For any adventurous soul who loves nature and the open sea, Wish I Was Here by Sebastiaan Bedaux is a must-have addition to your best coffee table books.
As I flipped through the pages, my mind wandered to Micronesia, Hawaii, and Polynesia, and I felt as though I was right there, taking in the vibrant blue skies and crystal-clear waters.
With stunning aerial and underwater photography, this book showcases some of the most breathtaking locations where the water is the center of attention.
It’s no wonder that in a 2016 travel survey, the top dream vacations included destinations like the Amalfi Coast and the Galapagos Islands.
Wish I Was Here does a phenomenal job of capturing paradise on earth, inspiring those who seek it and those who simply admire it from a distance.
9. Beach Rides: Time Machines for Modern Day Escapists by John Annetti
As a lover of vintage cars and the stories behind them, I was instantly drawn to John Annetti’s Beach Rides.
This visually stunning coffee table book takes you on a journey through time with 21 retro island cars and the families that have cherished them over the years.
It’s as if each car has its own personality and unique history to share. The attention to detail and premium print quality make it one of the best coffee table books.
Beach Rides is not just a collection of photos, but a beautifully curated storytelling experience.
If you’re a modern-day escapist looking to transport yourself back to a simpler time without leaving your living room, this book is the perfect time machine.
10. Happiness Comes in Waves: Life Lessons from the Ocean by Holly Daniels Christensen
Diving into Happiness Comes in Waves felt like a refreshing dip in the ocean. This cute coffee table book is filled with inspiring stories and quotations from ocean advocates, complemented by breathtaking photographs of the sea and shorelines.
As I delved deeper into the book, I felt like I was uncovering secrets to a fulfilling life that are often overlooked.
The ocean teaches us that we are connected; even the most minor changes can lead to positive momentum.
Each chapter is dedicated to a theme of life lessons that encourage us to be free, courageous, purposeful, peaceful, and harmonious.
The ocean is a powerful metaphor for life, reminding us to be strong yet calm, steady yet yielding, and subtle yet beautiful.
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of life’s lessons and an appreciation for the beauty of the ocean.
11. A Summer Place: Living by the Sea by Tricia Foley
Living by the sea has always been a dream of mine, and reading A Summer Place: Living by the Sea by Tricia Foley has inspired me to create my own personal sanctuary.
As I flip through the pages of this beautifully photographed collection of homes, I find myself transported to the idyllic seaside community of Bellport-Brookhaven, where Foley resides and these stunning properties are located.
From modern residences designed to maximize water views to charming nineteenth-century shingle-style cottages restored for everyday living, there is something for every beach lover in this book.
I was particularly drawn to the artist retreats, filled with color, pattern, and unique style.
This book is truly one of the best beach coffee table books I have ever come across, and I can’t wait to incorporate some of the ideas into my own coastal home.
12. Coastal California: The Pacific Coast Highway and Beyond by Jake Rajs
I don’t know about you, but I need to get enough of the California coast. That’s why the book Coastal California: The Pacific Coast Highway and Beyond by Jake Rajs caught my eye.
As someone who has driven the PCH and explored many of the stunning locations featured in the book, I can say that Rajs has captured the beauty and essence of coastal California in a genuinely unparalleled way.
With expertly crafted photographs of everything from the towering redwoods of Northern California to the sandy beaches of Southern California, this book is the ultimate gift for anyone who feels a deep connection to the Pacific Ocean and all that encompasses it.
Plus, it’s the perfect addition to any coastal coffee table book collection.
13. Unforgettable Journeys: Slow Down and See the World by DK Eyewitness
I couldn’t put down Unforgettable Journeys: Slow Down and See the World by DK Eyewitness.
With over 200 breathtaking journeys, I felt transported to each destination through the experiential text and captivating photography.
What I appreciated most was the practical information provided, allowing me to plan and execute the journey easily.
Plus, the book includes sustainable and slow travel options, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism. The feature boxes provide fascinating context, enhancing the overall experience.
And the best part? Alternative ways to make the same journey and similar trips are pulled out, making this one of the best coastal coffee table books.
Trust me, once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down which is why this is one of the best travel coffee table books.
14. In Love With The Sea by Amanda Miggs
Whenever I open In Love With The Sea by Amanda Miggs, it feels like I am diving into a different world.
The stunning oceanography and carefully curated quotes on each page make this book a captivating addition to my cheap coffee table books collection.
With images selected from all corners of the globe, the book gives a glimpse into the many wonders of our vast ocean and its inhabitants.
The vivid colors and intricate details of marine organisms are brought to life in superb, high-quality photographs that practically jump off the page – it’s a visual splendor.
For all the sea lovers out there, this coffee table book is a must-have. It reminds me why I love the sea and inspires me with its exquisite beauty whenever I pick it up.
15. Beachside: Windsor Architecture and Design
Regarding coastal coffee table books, Beachside: Windsor Architecture and Design is a must-have.
As a lover of all things beachy and stylish, I was immediately drawn to Hadley Keller’s exploration of the Florida community crafted by Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk.
Through the eyes of award-winning photographer Jessica Klewicki Glynn, I was transported to the airy rooms and bougainvillea-framed entrances of houses designed by talents like John Stefanidis and Steven Gambrel.
However, Beachside truly stands out is its organization by room. From open-plan living to balcony-facing bedrooms, this book inspires anyone yearning for a chic and coastal life.
My final thoughts on the best coastal coffee table books
In conclusion, the allure of coastal coffee table books extends far beyond their role as mere decor; they are portals to the mesmerizing world of coastal living.
As I reflect on the stunning landscapes, captivating wildlife, and artistic expressions encapsulated within these books, it’s clear that they offer more than visual delight—they provide a tangible connection to the soothing essence of coastal environments.
So, let’s not merely decorate our homes; let’s embark on a journey through the pages of coastal coffee table books and truly embrace the coastal lifestyle.
Explore the sandy shores, bask in the beauty of ocean horizons, and let these books inspire a sense of tranquility and appreciation for the wonders of coastal living.
FAQ about best coastal coffee table books
What are the best luxury coastal coffee table books?
Some of the best luxury coastal coffee table books are Martius. The Book of Palms by H. Walter Lack, At Home on the Water by Jaci Conry, or A Summer Place: Living by the Sea by Tricia Foley.
What are the best coffee table books?
Some of the best coffee table books are Gaetano Pesce: The Complete Incoherence, Louis Vuitton: Virgil Abloh, or Woman Made: Great Women Designers by Jane Hall.
What are the best surf coffee table books?
Some of the best surf coffee table books are Swell: A Year of Waves by Evan Slater, The History of Surfing by Matt Warshaw, or Surf Photography Of The 1960s & 1970s by LeRoy Grannis and Steve Barilotti.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
