If you’re craving a summer that feels gentle and unhurried—a season where mornings stretch softly, meals are simple yet satisfying, and the rhythm of the day invites you to breathe—you’re not alone. I call this the “coastal grandmother” summer: a lifestyle inspired by seaside charm, cozy moments, and a mindful pace that leaves room for what truly matters.
Over the years, I’ve wandered through quaint coastal towns like Newburyport, Nantucket, Camden, and Bar Harbor, soaking in their peaceful atmospheres. Each visit sparks a fresh wave of inspiration to bring that serene, salty-air feeling back home. So, I created this bucket list as a gentle nudge—a collection of small, feel-good ideas designed to help you savor summer without fuss or pressure. Ready to slow down and soak it all in? Here’s your guide to a truly restorative coastal grandmother summer.
1. Host a Low-Key Outdoor Lunch
There’s no need to overthink the menu or presentation. Think pasta salad, chilled lemon water served in a charming hand-painted pitcher, and some light music to set the mood. The secret? It’s all about creating an inviting, relaxed atmosphere—not impressing with complexity. Bring out your cotton-linen blend napkins, and enjoy a midday meal that feels like a breath of fresh air.
2. Step Outside with Your Morning Coffee
Even just five minutes spent outdoors with your morning cup can transform your day. Picture yourself in a cozy striped robe and your favorite sandals, seated on the porch or balcony as the world wakes up around you. It’s a small ritual, but one that brings calm and clarity before the day’s bustle begins.
3. Start a Summer Reading List
Choose something lighthearted and uplifting—no heavy tomes required. Right now, I’m enjoying Funny Story, a breezy read that lifts the spirit without demanding too much attention. Whether you read by the shore, in a hammock, or curled up in your favorite chair, summer is the perfect time to indulge in stories that bring joy.
4. Bake Something Nostalgic
Slow mornings call for fluffy blueberry pancakes, made even sweeter in a beloved blue pan that makes the whole process feel special. The scent that lingers in the house long after baking adds a cozy warmth to your day. Whether it’s pancakes, cookies, or a simple loaf of bread, baking connects us to comforting traditions and slow, intentional living.
5. Dress a Little Cute, Even for Errands
Sometimes, the simplest outfit can boost your mood. Lately, I’ve been loving white wide-leg jeans paired with a striped tee and oversized sunglasses—a casual yet put-together look that makes everyday outings feel a little more special. It’s a reminder that self-care can be found in the details of our daily routine.
6. Visit a Farmer’s Market and Pick Up Something Fresh
The local market is a treasure trove of seasonal delights—flowers, ripe fruit, or a crusty loaf of bread. Carrying a woven market tote, I often find myself bringing home a few colorful items to brighten the kitchen or the dining table. It’s a simple pleasure that connects us to the rhythms of nature and community.
7. Add a Small Coastal Touch to Your Home
A new blue-and-white pillow here, a rattan bread basket there—small changes can make a big difference. These little coastal accents bring lightness and freshness into your living space, creating an atmosphere that invites relaxation and daydreaming about ocean breezes.
8. Make Rainy Days Feel Special Too
Rainy afternoons don’t have to mean dreary. Pull out your favorite fisherman cardigan, light a seaside-inspired candle, and play a curated playlist while you bake or read. Sometimes, I use this quiet time to organize a neglected drawer, with a hot cup of tea nearby to keep things cozy. Embracing the slower pace of rainy days brings a new kind of peace.
9. Plan a Simple Picnic
You don’t need elaborate plans—a blanket, some snacks, and maybe a little rosé are all it takes. Whether it’s in your backyard, at the beach, or even sitting in the trunk of the car when a sudden shower arrives, a picnic is an easy way to make ordinary moments feel like a celebration.
10. Take a Drive with the Windows Down
Crank up your favorite playlist, stop for iced coffee or a scoop of ice cream, and take the scenic route home. This simple pleasure always lifts my spirits and invites a sense of freedom and spontaneity into the day.
11. Wind Down Slowly at Day’s End
After dinner, light a candle, put on some gentle music, and settle in with a book or a show you’ve been meaning to watch. These quiet evenings, where you savor stillness and comfort, are what I look forward to most. It’s the perfect way to close out a day filled with gentle rhythms.
You don’t need a seaside cottage to enjoy a peaceful summer. With a few mindful touches, slower days, and cozy pajamas, you can create your own sanctuary of calm and joy wherever you are. I’ll be sharing more simple summer inspirations, coastal outfit ideas, and home finds every day at Beautifully Seaside—hope you’ll join me for the journey!
What’s one thing you’re excited to add to your summer bucket list? I’d love to hear your ideas!
