31 Extremely Cute Coastal Tattoos Every Ocean Lover Needs

This post is all about cute coastal tattoos that every ocean lover needs.

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Photo by: @shelleytattoos

Calling all ocean lovers! We know the feeling, that constant pull of the tide, the mesmerizing rhythm of the waves, the ombre shades of saltwater that soothe your soul. And what better way to showcase your deep-sea devotion than with a perfectly petite tattoo?

Sure, you could go all out, but sometimes, simplicity speaks volumes. That's why we've curated this collection of the most charming, ocean-inspired tattoos designed specifically for those who appreciate the delicate beauty of the underwater world.

Think shimmering seashells, playful dolphins, or maybe even a breathtaking beach sunset - all shrunk down to become a permanent reminder of your love for the sea.

Coastal Tattoos

1. Seashell Tattoos

Photo by: @lula.handpoke

Starting off we have the classic seashell tattoo design that every ocean lover can appreciate! Personally, I love the placement of this tattoo on the arm, but it can also be done on your rib cage, ankle, or even a smaller version vertically behind your ear.

2. Dainty Scallop Shell Tattoo

This charming and delicate scallop shell tattoo is the perfect way to carry your love for the beach with you wherever you go. Whether placed on your ankle, wrist, or even behind your ear, this versatile little design is a subtle yet stylish reminder of sandy shores and salty breezes.

3. Sting Ray Tattoos

Love them or fear them, sting rays are mesmerizing as they glide gracefully through the water, and their beauty translates perfectly into a tattoo. Choose a single ray with elegantly curved wings or opt for a small school of two or three for a playful and adorable design that would look stunning on your hip or swimming up your inner arm.

4. Mermaid Scales Tattoo

Embrace your inner mermaid and keep that childhood dream alive with these enchanting rainbow mermaid scales peeking through your skin. This subtle and whimsical design is a perfect way to showcase your hidden love for the ocean while adding a touch of magic to your everyday.

5. Sea Treasures Tattoos

Photo by: @lgbeautyink

This assortment of seashells, oysters, and tropical flowers is so cute! You can pair together a couple of your favorites, or even add a single one to your ankle, wrist, behind your ear, etc.

6. Starfish Tattoo

Starfish are just so simple and sweet, making them such a cute choice for a tattoo that will always bring a smile to your face. Whether you prefer a minimalist black and white line drawing or a colorful wash of orange or pink, these adorable sea stars can be clustered together to create a charming constellation effect. But they look equally as cute by themselves!

7. Mermaid Tattoo

This dreamy and beautiful mermaid tattoo is a lovely reminder to keep reaching for the stars and never give up on your dreams. The vertical profile of the mermaid makes it an ideal design for your inner arm or ankle, as if she's swimming alongside you, encouraging you to embrace your inner magic.

8. Surfer Girl Tattoo

Show off your love for hanging ten with this stunning line drawing tattoo that perfectly captures the exhilaration of riding a long wave, your toes hanging over the edge of your board. This design is a subtle yet powerful way to express your passion for surfing and the carefree spirit of a true surfer girl.

9. Shark Tooth Tattoo

Photo by: @lgbeautyink

This fine line shark tattoo is one of my personal favorites! If you are an ocean lover at heart, then you know that sharks are the real locals in any beach town. Perfect tattoo for anyone looking for something simple, yet super detailed in the design.

10. Seahorse Tattoo

Nothing is quite as charming as a little sea horse just bobbing his way along the ocean floor. Whether you choose to place it on the bridge of your foot, the back of your shoulder, or swimming along your hip, this little guy will add a touch of fun wherever you place him.

11. Dolphin Tattoo

While dolphin tattoos are incredibly popular, finding one that is both unique and subtle can be a challenge. This design, with its delicate bubbles adds just a hint of color without overwhelming the overall look, strikes the perfect balance between elegance and playfulness.

12. Sunset Tattoo

For those who prefer to admire the ocean from the safety of the shore, this stunning sunset tattoo perfectly captures the warm glow of the sun as it dips below the horizon. With its vibrant oranges and yellows and the silhouettes of seagulls floating leisurely over the waves, this design is a beautiful way to carry the magic of a beach sunset with you always.

13. Constellation Bracelet Tattoo

This enchanting design, with stars floating over ocean waves, perfectly captures the magic and wonder of a night spent by the sea. Wrapping around your wrist or ankle, this tattoo can be customized to incorporate different images, from a majestic whale to a mystical mermaid or a graceful jellyfish, making it a truly unique and personal expression of your love for the ocean.

14. Light House Tattoo

A little light house is a nice reminder that there’s always someone watching out for you even when the waves get a little rough. You can go as large or small as you like with this idea. But a small and simple version keeps this idea cute.

15. Detailed Sea Life Tattoos

Photo by: @sydney_fineline_tattoo

These fine line sea life tattoos are STUNNING! If you are looking for a unique ocean themed tattoo, then I highly recommend going with one of these sea creature tattoos.

16. Shark Tattoo

These two adorable sharks, slipping stealthily along the ocean floor, are far too cute to be scary! The clever use of shading adds depth and dimension to the design, making it a fun and playful choice for best friends or partners in crime who want to commemorate their bond with a permanent reminder of their adventures together.

17. Scuba Diver Tattoo

Capture the serene, magical feeling of gliding through the ocean depths, at one with the fish and sea life, with this graceful scuba diver tattoo. The design perfectly captures the sense of freedom and independence that comes with exploring the underwater world.

18. Aloha Tattoo

In a world that can sometimes feel chaotic and stressful, we could all use a little more aloha in our lives. Place this cheerful tattoo somewhere you'll see it often, as a daily reminder to take a deep breath, smile, and spread the love and positivity that the aloha spirit embodies.

19. Feminine Anchor Tattoo

While anchor tattoos can sometimes come across as too masculine, this delicate design is given a feminine twist with the addition of pretty pink flowers. Feel free to customize the floral element to suit your personal taste and style!

20. Whale Tattoo

Whales, the gentle giants of the ocean, embody a sense of majesty and tranquility that is both awe-inspiring and comforting. This charming tattoo design pays homage to one of Earth's most magnificent creatures, serving as a beautiful reminder of the ocean's wonders and the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystem.

21. Plumeria Tattoo

A delicate plumeria tattoo is the perfect way to commemorate a memorable trip to the Hawaiian islands or to express your appreciation for the flower's symbolic meanings of love, beauty, and grace. The blossom's soft, intricate petals and alluring fragrance are captured beautifully in this design, making it a meaningful and attractive choice for any nature lover.

22. Octopus Tattoo

While an octopus might not be everyone's first choice for a tattoo, their expressive eyes and adorably chubby bodies can make for a surprisingly cute and quirky design. A friendly little octopus tattoo can serve as a great reminder to embrace your curious spirit and to approach life with an open mind and a sense of wonder.

23. Simple Surfboard Tattoo

For those seeking a minimalist design, this sleek and simple surfboard tattoo is the perfect choice. The slim profile of the board creates a subtle yet eye-catching conversation starter that can easily be concealed beneath a sleeve or watch, making it an ideal option for women who want a tattoo that is both stylish and discreet.

24. Beach Hut Tattoo

Capture the joy and nostalgia of summer with a charming beach hut tattoo that will remind you of your favorite seaside snacks and the exhilaration of standing up on a rented surfboard for the first time. This playful design keeps the memory of sun-soaked days and salty breezes alive all year round.

25. Flip Flops Tattoo

Flip flops, the quintessential summer footwear, make for a delightfully versatile tattoo design. From bold stripes to playful polka dots and delicate floral patterns, there are endless ways to customize this cute and trendy tattoo, allowing you to express your unique style and personality through a beloved summer staple.

26. Seagull Tattoo

While seagulls may sometimes be a nuisance when trying to steal your beach picnic, there's no denying their majestic beauty as they soar effortlessly above the ocean waves, riding the wind currents among the clouds.

This tattoo design, whether in classic black and white or with a subtle touch of color transports you to your favorite seaside memories.

27. Bikini Tattoo

For the beach-loving girl who wishes she could live in her bikini all year round, this cheeky and fun tattoo design is the perfect solution. Featuring a cute bikini hanging from a clothesline, this playful tattoo celebrates your love for sun, sand, and the carefree spirit of summer, making it an ideal choice for any ocean-obsessed adventurer.

28. Surf Bus Tattoo

If you're a free-spirited girl who loves the open road and can't go anywhere without her trusty surfboard, this adorable little VW surf bus tattoo is the perfect way to embody your adventurous nature. This charming design captures the essence of wanderlust and the thrill of chasing waves, serving as a constant reminder to embrace life's exciting journey.

29. Beach Umbrella Tattoo

Relive those idyllic, lazy days spent lounging under the shade of a beach umbrella, lost in your favorite book or simply immersed in the soothing sounds of the ocean, with this delightful beach umbrella tattoo. Customize the design with a touch of your favorite color to accent the umbrella.

30. Coral Reef Tattoo

This enchanting mini coral reef tattoo is a whimsical and vibrant celebration of underwater life, featuring a tiny school of fish darting among colorful corals to create a magical, miniature aquatic garden.

31. Puffer Fish Tattoo

With its endearingly large, perpetually surprised eyes and adorably round, puffy body, this charming puffer fish tattoo is sure to bring a smile to your face. Resembling a fluffy cloud beneath the sea, this tattoo serves as a delightful reminder to embrace life's playful side and to find joy in the ocean's most whimsical and unexpected creatures.

This post was all about coastal tattoos.

Co-Written by: Jenna Stenderup