Wishing you could spend all your days relaxing by the beach? If your best vacations are spent with the smell of salt water and the sound of the surf then it only makes sense to bring a little of that feel to your home. Of course, you can do this in any room of your house. Popular furniture options like Cape Cod inspired cedar chairs, rockers and chairs can be incorporated inside and out. The benefits of doing this on your porch or lawn is that you still get to enjoy whatever view you have.

Some great items to incorporate in any beach themed space include seashells, driftwood, sea glass, light houses and wooden furniture. A beach house is usually very light and airy, with a minimal of furniture, but a few well chosen bits of the nautical brought in.

Depending on the size, view, and options available in your outdoor space, you'll want to ask yourself these questions:

- Is the outdoor space screened in or open to the elements?

- Is there room for large pieces of furniture?

- Will the furniture be protected from the elements or does it need to be weather proof?

- Will smaller design elements be sturdy enough to withstand the weather?

- Do you have a cottage, surf, nautical or beach house theme in mind?

If your space is completely exposed (no screen or roof) then you will want furniture that is designed to stand up to water and weather. Plastic, wicker and wooden furniture are all options. If you choose wicker furniture you'll want to get weather proof cushions that you can remove and store when the weather gets too windy.

Adirondack chairs that are created for beachfront properties are ideal. They are a comfortable shape and often come with an ottoman. These don't require extra cushions.

Hammocks are always a great addition. Just be sure you get something can be easily stored in poor weather. Your least expensive option is some cheap plastic chairs. You won't get as much of a “beachy” feel, and they probably won't last as long as some of the sturdier options.

If your porch is screened in, you truly have a lot of options. A few simple wooden folding chairs, some nautical elements like buoys, sand dollars, even lobster traps in selected spots can create the theme you're looking for. Boat rope makes excellent border trim for walls and book shelves.

No matter which route you take, the key is to choose a few pieces of furniture where you and some friends can relax as if you where next to the coastline. Your decision to accent with natural elements or beach themed accessories is what will personalize the space and make it your own. Even if your view is of the mountains, a wooded forest, or your neighbor's backyard, creating a beach themed outdoor space can offer an instant escape only steps from your front door.