Sea Themed Baby Shower Ideas: 15 Amazing Ways to Celebrate Your Little Sailor

Picture this: your best friend just announced she’s expecting, and she’s obsessed with everything ocean-related.

Maybe she grew up by the beach, or perhaps she just can’t resist those adorable whale nursery prints.

Either way, you’re planning her baby shower, and you want it to be absolutely perfect—complete with nautical vibes that don’t feel like you raided a fishing boat supply store.

I’ve helped plan three ocean-themed baby showers in the past two years (apparently all my friends are drawn to the sea!), and let me tell you, this theme is pure magic.

There’s something about those calming blues, playful sea creatures, and beachy textures that creates the sweetest atmosphere for celebrating new life.

Plus, it works beautifully whether you’re hosting 15 people in your living room or 50 guests at a beach club.

The best part? A sea-themed shower gives you tons of creative freedom.

You can go full nautical with anchors and stripes, dive into an underwater wonderland with mermaids and colorful fish, or keep things coastal-chic with shells and driftwood.

I’m going to walk you through 15 ideas that’ll help you create a celebration as special as the little one on the way.

Under the Sea Wonderland Theme

Imagine walking into a room that feels like you’ve stepped beneath the waves—soft blues and teals everywhere, jellyfish lanterns floating from the ceiling, and shimmering fabric that moves like ocean currents. This theme absolutely enchanted guests at my cousin’s shower last summer, and people are still talking about those hanging jellyfish decorations.

Image Prompt: A magical underwater baby shower scene with cascading blue and teal fabric draped from the ceiling to create wave effects. Paper jellyfish lanterns in various sizes hang at different heights, their white and iridescent tentacles flowing downward. The table features blue ombre tablecloths, coral-shaped centerpieces, scattered seashells, and goldfish crackers in clear bowls. Soft blue lighting creates an ethereal underwater glow. Small “sea bubbles” (clear balloons) cluster in corners.

How to Do It

• Hang jellyfish lanterns using white paper lanterns with ribbon or tissue paper tentacles attached—suspend them at varying heights throughout your space
• Create wave effects by draping sheer blue fabric in cascading layers from the ceiling or across walls
• Set up a photo backdrop using blue streamers arranged to look like flowing water, with cardboard cutouts of sea creatures
• Use blue lighting by placing blue light bulbs in lamps or using LED strips behind fabric for that underwater ambiance
• Scatter ocean elements like shells, starfish, and coral pieces across tables and surfaces
• Budget-friendly tip: Dollar stores carry tons of blue tissue paper and plastic tablecloths you can layer for that ocean effect
• Time needed: About 3-4 hours to set up all the draping and hanging elements
• Pro tip: Attach fishing line to your jellyfish so they appear to float more naturally—it’s worth the extra effort!

Nautical Navy and White Classic

Sometimes the most timeless approach wins, and honestly? Navy stripes with crisp white accents never fail to look absolutely elegant. I saw this done at a country club shower where the mom-to-be wanted something sophisticated, and it was stunning—no cartoon whales in sight, just beautiful maritime charm.

Image Prompt: An elegant nautical baby shower table with navy and white striped table runners over white tablecloths. Gold anchor decorations serve as centerpieces alongside white hydrangeas in navy ribbon-wrapped vases. Navy napkins are tied with white rope featuring small anchor charms. A tiered dessert stand displays white cupcakes with navy toppers. Subtle gold accents (frames, cutlery) add sophistication. Clean, bright natural lighting.

How to Do It

• Choose a striped foundation with navy and white striped table runners, napkins, or even a striped balloon arch
• Incorporate rope details by wrapping natural jute rope around vases, tying napkins, or creating rope garlands
• Add metallic accents using gold or brass anchor decorations, picture frames, or charger plates
• Select white florals like hydrangeas, roses, or peonies tied with navy ribbon for centerpieces
• Create a dessert display featuring white treats with navy toppers—think cookies, cupcakes, and macarons
• DIY anchor napkin rings by attaching small gold anchor charms to white or navy napkins with twine
• Budget range: $150-300 depending on whether you buy or borrow serving pieces
• Pro tip: This theme photographs beautifully, so make sure you set up a designated photo area with a navy backdrop!

Beachy Boho Coastal Gathering

If the mom-to-be has a laid-back, bohemian spirit, this relaxed coastal vibe is perfect. Think driftwood, macramé, and those gorgeous neutral tones that make everyone feel instantly calm. BTW, this works especially well for outdoor showers!

Image Prompt: A relaxed beachy baby shower setup outdoors or in a sunlit room with natural wood tables. Centerpieces feature driftwood pieces with white candles, succulents in sand-filled containers, and woven placemats. Macramé wall hangings serve as backdrops. Neutral colors—cream, tan, soft blue, natural wood tones—dominate. Small glass bottles hold single stems of coastal grasses. Casual, breezy, warm afternoon lighting.

How to Do It

• Gather natural elements like driftwood pieces, smooth stones, and dried coastal grasses from craft stores or beach walks
• Incorporate macramé through wall hangings, plant holders, or table runners—these create instant boho vibes
• Use wooden serving pieces like cutting boards for cheese displays or wooden crates as risers for treats
• Choose neutral linens in cream, beige, or soft sand colors instead of bright blues
• Add succulents in small pots filled with sand—they double as favors guests can take home
• Create a low-key beverage station with drinks in galvanized tubs filled with ice and sand
• Time needed: 2-3 hours for setup, less if you keep decorations minimal
• Perfect for: Outdoor venues, backyards, or anywhere with good natural light

Whale of a Time Celebration

Whales are basically the unofficial mascot of baby showers at this point, and for good reason—they’re adorable without being overly cutesy. I love how versatile whale decorations are, from sophisticated gray and white schemes to playful multi-colored designs.

Image Prompt: A charming whale-themed baby shower with a large whale cutout or banner as the focal point reading “Have a Whale of a Time!” Tables feature whale-shaped cookies, cupcakes with fondant whale toppers, and whale-print napkins. Centerpieces combine small whale figurines with blue and white flowers. Baby blue and gray color scheme with white accents. Several “spouting” whale decorations made from cardboard with tissue paper water spouts.

How to Do It

• Create a whale banner as your main focal point using cardboard cutouts or printable decorations
• Bake whale-shaped treats using whale cookie cutters or ordering custom cupcake toppers
• Make “spouting” decorations by crafting 3D whale shapes with tissue paper water spouts coming from blowholes
• Use whale-print party supplies for plates, napkins, and cups—many party stores carry these now
• Set up a “fishing for baby names” game where guests write name suggestions on paper fish
• Include whale stuffed animals as both decorations and potential prizes or gifts
• Color palette: Stick with soft blue, gray, and white for a cohesive look
• Pro tip: Whale-shaped cheese balls or sandwiches get so many comments—totally worth the extra effort!

Mermaid Magic Baby Shower

For expecting moms who’ve always believed they’re part mermaid at heart 🙂 This theme brings out everyone’s inner child while still looking absolutely gorgeous. The shimmer, the scales, the ocean fantasy—it’s pure enchantment.

Image Prompt: A glamorous mermaid baby shower with iridescent decorations catching the light. Tables covered in aqua and purple sequined tablecloths feature mermaid tail centerpieces. Rose gold and teal balloons create an arch. Desserts include mermaid-tail cookies, “ocean water” blue punch, and a cake with edible pearl and scale details. Clamshell serving dishes hold treats. Hanging paper fans in ocean colors create backdrop texture. Magical, shimmery lighting.

How to Do It

• Choose an iridescent color scheme combining aqua, purple, teal, and rose gold or silver metallics
• Create mermaid tail decorations using cardboard templates covered in sequin fabric or scale-pattern paper
• Serve “ocean water” punch in clear containers with blue curacao, lemonade, and edible glitter
• Bake mermaid-inspired treats like tail-shaped cookies, cupcakes with fondant scales, or a stunning ombre cake
• Use clamshell serving dishes for appetizers, candies, or desserts—these are easier to find than you’d think!
• Set up a DIY flower crown station where guests make floral headpieces fit for a mermaid
• Add plenty of shimmer through metallic balloons, iridescent streamers, and glittery table runners
• Budget range: $200-400 if you go all-out with specialty items
• Pro tip: Thrift stores often have interesting shell-shaped dishes and ocean-colored glassware!## Anchor Away Centerpieces

Anchors have become the symbol of nautical baby showers, and they work beautifully as centerpiece focal points. You can create your own centerpieces using mason jars decorated with nautical stickers, twine, and anchor-shaped picks among fresh flowers. I’ve seen these done dozens of ways, and they always photograph gorgeously.

Image Prompt: A collection of nautical baby shower centerpieces featuring mason jars wrapped with jute rope and navy ribbon. Each jar contains white hydrangeas, yellow roses, and blue delphinium flowers with small anchor picks tucked among the blooms. Navy and white striped table runners underneath. Small gold anchor figurines scattered around the bases. Clear glass fishbowls filled with decorative sand and mini anchor decorations sit alongside the floral arrangements.

How to Do It

• Prepare mason jars by wrapping jute rope around the neck and securing with hot glue, then adding navy ribbons
• Attach anchor decorations using nautical stickers, tags, or small painted wooden anchors glued to the jar fronts
• Arrange fresh flowers starting with larger blooms like hydrangeas, then filling in with roses and accent flowers
• Add anchor picks as finishing touches—these are available at most craft stores
• Create fishbowl displays by filling clear bowls with decorative sand, small shells, and anchor cutouts
• Mix heights by using different sized jars and adding some on risers for visual interest
• Budget-friendly swap: Use blue food coloring in water instead of buying blue flowers
• Estimated time: 1-2 hours to prepare 5-6 centerpieces
• Pro tip: Make these the day before and store in a cool place so flowers stay fresh!

Ocean-Inspired Food Display

Let’s talk about the most fun part—the food! A seafood platter with items like shrimp, crab, or oysters fits perfectly with the ocean theme, but you don’t need actual seafood to create a beach-worthy spread. I’ve found that simple foods with creative names steal the show every time.

Image Prompt: A beautifully styled ocean-themed food table with tiered serving stands. Top tier displays sugar cookies shaped like starfish, shells, and fish in various blue icing shades. Middle tier features “sand dollar” cookies and whale-shaped sandwiches. Bottom tier has “sea glass” candies in clear containers and “goldfish” crackers in small glass bowls. Blue and white striped napkins, anchor-print plates, and rope-wrapped serving utensils. Small signs with playful food names like “Sand Bars,” “Sea Shells,” and “Ocean Water Punch.”

How to Do It

• Bake themed cookies using ocean-shaped cutters (starfish, shells, anchors, whales) and decorate with blue royal icing
• Create “Sand Bars” using rice crispy treats pressed into a pan and cut into rectangles
• Serve “Ocean Water” punch by mixing blue sports drink or lemonade with sprite and adding blue rock candy sticks
• Make whale sandwiches by cutting regular sandwiches with a whale-shaped cutter
• Fill bowls with “sea glass” using blue, green, and clear candies or blue jelly beans
• Label everything creatively with small tent cards featuring ocean puns
• Arrange in tiers using cake stands at different heights for visual appeal
• DIY bread knots shaped like sailor’s knots as a fun savory option
• Time needed: 3-4 hours spread across the day before the shower
• Pro tip: Prep and freeze cookies up to two weeks ahead to reduce last-minute stress!

Fishing Net Wall Decor

Want to transform your space without breaking the bank? Fishing nets are your secret weapon. You can hang fishing net party decorations from the ceiling or attach them to walls, adding stuffed sea animals like whales and starfish inside for visual interest. This instantly creates that authentic ocean atmosphere everyone loves.

Image Prompt: A large beige fishing net draped across a wall and ceiling corner, creating dimensional texture. Small plush sea creatures—blue whales, orange starfish, pink jellyfish—are tucked into the netting at various points. Seashells, plastic lobsters, and small lanterns also hang within the net. The net extends from ceiling to wall, creating a focal point area. Soft white string lights woven through add a magical glow. Navy and coral color accents visible in background.

How to Do It

• Purchase decorative fishing net from party supply stores or online—they come in natural or dyed colors
• Attach to ceiling and walls using clear pushpins or command hooks that won’t damage surfaces
• Tuck in stuffed sea animals at varying intervals—baby whales, octopuses, starfish, seahorses
• Add real or faux shells throughout the netting for authentic ocean texture
• Weave in string lights for an ethereal underwater glow effect
• Include sea-themed baby items like tiny onesies or rattles for extra sweetness
• Vary the depth by pulling some sections of netting forward to create dimension
• Setup time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Pro tip: Take photos against this backdrop—it makes for gorgeous shower pictures!

Message in a Bottle Guest Book

Forget traditional guest books! Guests can write messages with advice, encouragement, or wishes for the parents on provided cards, fold them, and place them in a decorative bottle. The parents-to-be will treasure opening these notes later, maybe even on baby’s first birthday.

Image Prompt: An elegant glass bottle or jar decorated with rope and an anchor tag sits on a display table. Small cards in ocean colors (aqua, navy, cream) are fanned out beside it along with nice pens. A decorative sign explains the activity: “Share your wisdom! Write a message for our little sailor’s journey.” Completed notes are visible inside the bottle. The setup includes small shells, a starfish, and soft lighting creating an inviting glow.

How to Do It

• Choose a large decorative bottle or clear jar with a wide opening for easy note insertion
• Decorate the bottle with rope, nautical tags, or painted anchors
• Create message cards in ocean colors—cut to fit easily through the bottle opening
• Display a sign explaining what guests should write (advice, wishes, predictions)
• Provide nice pens in a coordinating holder or small anchor-themed container
• Set up a comfortable writing area with enough space for guests to compose thoughts
• Alternative idea: Use mini bottles so each guest takes home their message to mail on baby’s first birthday
• Estimated cost: $15-25 for all supplies
• Pro tip: Read a few messages aloud during the shower to get everyone laughing and emotional!

Life Preserver Photo Booth

Everyone wants those adorable shower photos, right? Setting up a simple photo booth area with nautical props turns your guests into instant photographers. I’ve seen people go absolutely wild with captain’s hats and life preservers—the photos are always hilarious and sweet.

Image Prompt: A photo booth corner with a navy and white striped backdrop or ocean scene. A red and white life preserver hangs on the wall. Props are displayed on a small table: captain’s hats, sailor collars, oversized sunglasses, “Ahoy Baby” signs, inflatable fish, telescope, anchor cutouts on sticks. Good lighting from nearby window or stand light. A polaroid camera or phone tripod setup nearby. Fun, playful atmosphere perfect for capturing memories.

How to Do It

• Create a backdrop using navy and white striped fabric, or hang an ocean scene poster
• Gather props including captain’s hats, life preservers, inflatable sea creatures, and printed signs
• Make photo signs with phrases like “Anchored in Love,” “Ahoy Baby,” or “Seas the Day”
• Set up good lighting near a window or add a ring light for better photo quality
• Provide a camera option like a polaroid camera for instant prints guests can take home
• Display completed photos on a string with mini clothespins as the shower progresses
• Add a props table so items are organized and easy to access
• Pro tip: Assign someone to take official photos so the mom-to-be doesn’t miss capturing moments!

Sailor Hat Activity Station

When you have guests of different ages, activity stations save the day. Making paper sailor hats is an easy DIY activity for all ages using paper and simple folding instructions, which guests can then decorate with markers and crayons. It keeps kids entertained while adults chat, plus everyone gets a fun favor!

Image Prompt: A craft table setup with white and navy construction paper, origami sailor hat templates, and coloring supplies. Completed sailor hats in various stages of decoration sit on display. Markers, crayons, stickers with anchors and whales, and glue sticks are organized in small containers. Step-by-step folding instructions are posted clearly. Kids and adults engaged in decorating their hats. Cheerful, creative atmosphere with newspaper protecting the table surface.

How to Do It

• Print folding instructions showing how to create basic sailor hats from paper—templates are free online
• Provide paper options in white, navy, and striped patterns for variety
• Set out decorating supplies including markers, stickers, glitter glue, and stamps
• Display example hats showing what’s possible to inspire creativity
• Protect your table with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth
• Create a “hat parade” where everyone shows off their creation
• Use as party favors that guests can wear during the shower and take home
• Setup time: 15-20 minutes
• Perfect for: Showers with children or creative adult guests who love DIY projects

Seashell Place Card Holders

Small touches make guests feel special, and personalized place settings do exactly that. Using real or faux shells as place card holders adds both elegance and theme without much effort. I love how these look photographed from above—so beachy and beautiful.

Image Prompt: An elegant table setting with each place featuring a large seashell (scallop or conch) holding a small white place card with a guest’s name written in navy calligraphy. Shells sit on navy and white striped charger plates. Navy napkins are tied with white rope and small anchor charms. Scattered smaller shells, sand dollars, and starfish accent the table. Natural light creates soft shadows. Sophisticated coastal elegance.

How to Do It

• Collect or purchase large shells like scallops, conchs, or clams from craft stores
• Clean shells thoroughly if using real ones—soak in water with a bit of bleach
• Create place cards using quality cardstock cut into small rectangles
• Write names in navy ink or have them printed in an elegant font
• Position cards by tucking them into shell openings or using a small amount of putty to hold upright
• Add small anchors or mini rope details to napkins as an extra touch
• Arrange coordinating shells as additional table scatter
• Budget option: Use smaller shells from dollar stores—they work just as beautifully
• Time needed: About 30 minutes for 20 place settings

Blue Ombre Cake Design

The cake is always a showstopper moment, and an ocean-inspired ombre design never fails to impress. You can choose a tiered cake with wave-patterned fondant in different blue shades, decorated with fondant sea creatures, corals, and shells. Even simpler versions look stunning—it’s all about those gorgeous blue gradients.

Image Prompt: A three-tiered round cake with beautiful blue ombre frosting, transitioning from deep navy at the bottom through turquoise in the middle to pale blue and white foam at the top, creating a wave effect. Fondant sea creatures (small fish, starfish, seahorse) are attached to different tiers. Edible pearls cascade down one side. The top features a fondant whale or anchor. White cake stand. Elegant and eye-catching centerpiece on the dessert table.

How to Do It

• Order or bake a tiered cake with three or more layers for maximum ombre effect
• Create ombre frosting by dividing buttercream into bowls and adding more blue food coloring to each successive bowl
• Apply frosting starting from the darkest shade at bottom, blending each color into the next as you move upward
• Add fondant decorations like sea creatures, shells, or coral pieces in coordinating colors
• Include edible pearls for an underwater treasure effect
• Top with a special element like a fondant anchor, whale, or “Baby [Name]” topper
• Alternative: Cupcakes decorated with the same ombre technique work wonderfully for easier serving
• Baker’s tip: If ordering from a bakery, bring inspiration photos and color swatches for best results
• Pro tip: Take the cake photo before cutting—those ombre layers look amazing in pictures!

Nautical Rope Garlands

Garlands featuring life preservers, anchors, and other seafaring symbols make great decorations above dessert tables or gift tables. These are super easy to make yourself or find pre-made, and they instantly tie your whole theme together—literally and figuratively!

Image Prompt: A charming nautical garland strung across a wall or above a dessert table featuring alternating elements: miniature life preservers in red and white, gold anchor cutouts, navy and white paper flags, small rope knots, and occasional whale or sailboat shapes. The garland is made with thick white rope or twine. Lengths of navy and white ribbon stream down at intervals. Festive, cohesive, and polished-looking decoration.

How to Do It

• Purchase or make garland pieces using cardstock cutouts of anchors, life preservers, and nautical flags
• String elements on thick white rope, twine, or ribbon at even intervals
• Alternate designs to create visual rhythm—anchor, flag, life preserver, repeat
• Add ribbon streamers by tying navy and white ribbons between major elements
• Include dimensional elements like small rope knots tied directly onto the garland
• Hang strategically above food tables, entryways, or as a backdrop
• Secure ends with command hooks or clear pushpins
• DIY time: 1-2 hours to create a 6-8 foot garland
• Reusable: Save these for future nautical parties or nursery decor!

Looking for even more creative team name inspiration? Check out these beach themed team names for additional ocean-inspired ideas.

Conclusion

Planning a sea-themed baby shower gives you so much room to get creative while celebrating something truly precious—the arrival of a new little person who’ll make waves in this world. Whether you’re going full nautical with anchors and navy stripes, creating an underwater wonderland with jellyfish and mermaids, or keeping things coastal-chic with shells and driftwood, this theme offers something special for every style and budget.

The beauty of ocean-inspired showers is that they work anywhere—from beachside venues to landlocked living rooms—and they photograph absolutely beautifully. Those blues and whites, the playful sea creatures, the thoughtful details like message-in-a-bottle guest books—all of it comes together to create an atmosphere that’s both joyful and meaningful.

Remember, the most important part isn’t having the perfect decorations or the most elaborate cake. It’s about gathering people who love the parents-to-be, celebrating this incredible journey they’re about to begin, and creating memories that’ll last long after the baby arrives. So whether you’re making DIY sailor hats with guests or simply stringing up some blue streamers, you’re already doing something wonderful.

Now grab your party planning notebook, circle your favorite ideas from this list, and get ready to throw a baby shower that’ll have everyone saying “Seas the day!” Your little sailor is lucky to have someone as thoughtful as you making their first celebration so special. 🙂