Creating Sustainable, Beautiful, and Functional Gardens for Coastal Living
Coastal landscape design offers a unique opportunity to harmonise natural seaside beauty with functional, low-maintenance outdoor spaces. By blending hardy, salt-tolerant plants with thoughtful design elements, these landscapes not only thrive in challenging environments but also enhance the charm and character of coastal properties. Whether you’re inspired by sandy dunes or lush seaside meadows, coastal landscapes are perfect for creating a serene, beach-inspired retreat.
Imagine stepping into your garden where coastal grasses sway gently in the breeze, native shrubs provide bursts of colour, and weathered driftwood accents frame the space with natural elegance. Coastal landscape design goes beyond aesthetics, offering practical solutions for the unique challenges of seaside environments, including strong winds, sandy soils, and salt spray.
Why Choose Coastal Landscape Design?
Coastal landscapes are ideal for properties near the beach or anyone seeking a relaxed, breezy style reminiscent of seaside living. They are designed to be resilient against the elements while remaining visually stunning.
In areas like the Gold Coast, where proximity to the ocean often shapes the environment, coastal gardens provide practical and beautiful solutions. By using salt-tolerant plants, strategic layouts, and durable materials, coastal gardens minimise maintenance and maximise their ability to withstand the harsh seaside conditions.
Whether it’s for a residential property or a commercial project, coastal landscape design can seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment, enhance biodiversity, and reduce the need for excessive watering or soil amendment.



Key Considerations for Coastal Landscape Design
1. Salt-Tolerant Plants: The Foundation of Coastal Gardens
- Select hardy plants like coastal rosemary, banksias, and native grasses that can thrive in salty conditions.
- Incorporate low-growing ground covers such as pigface to stabilise sandy soils and add vibrant colour.
- Include species with waxy or silver leaves, like succulents, which are naturally resistant to salt spray.
2. Wind-Resistant Planting: Protecting Your Space
- Use hardy shrubs like tea trees as natural windbreaks to shield more delicate plants.
- Layer plants of varying heights to create a buffer against strong coastal winds.
- Position sensitive plants near structures or within sheltered pockets of your garden.
3. Soil Considerations: Adapting to Sandy Environments
- Amend sandy soils with organic matter to improve moisture retention and fertility.
- Add compost and mulch to create a nutrient-rich, well-draining foundation for plant growth.
- Choose plants that naturally thrive in sandy or poor soil conditions.
4. Hardscaping Elements: Embracing Coastal Aesthetics
- Use natural materials like driftwood, pebbles, and weathered timber to reflect the beachside vibe.
- Incorporate gravel paths or stepping stones for durability and low-maintenance walkways.
- Include rustic elements such as rope accents or stone planters to evoke a maritime feel.
5. Salt-Resilient Lawns: Lush Yet Durable
- Opt for salt-tolerant turf varieties like Zoysia or Seashore Paspalum.
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root growth.
- Top-dress the lawn with sand to mimic natural coastal conditions.
6. Climate-Specific Planting: Adapting to Local Conditions
- Choose native species suited to your area, such as lomandras and coastal daisies, which require less maintenance and water.
- Include flowering plants like grevilleas to attract pollinators and create bursts of colour.
- Plan for year-round interest with a mix of evergreen and seasonal plants.
7. Low-Water Design: Sustainability in Action
- Group plants with similar water needs to maximise irrigation efficiency.
- Use mulching techniques to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
- Install a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots.
8. Biodiversity: Supporting Local Wildlife
- Include plants that attract birds, butterflies, and bees, such as coastal wattles and hakeas.
- Create sheltered areas with native shrubs for nesting and feeding.
- Add water features like shallow bowls to provide fresh water for wildlife.
Start Your Coastal Landscape Journey Today
A well-designed coastal garden combines the natural beauty of the seaside with practical, sustainable solutions. Whether you want a tranquil retreat or a space that connects your home to its surroundings, coastal landscape design offers endless possibilities to create a functional, beautiful outdoor space that thrives in challenging conditions.
Ready to Start Your Dream Garden?
Whether you’re inspired by tropical greenery, coastal vibes, or minimalist designs, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a personalised landscape consultation and bring your vision to life.