Coastal Christmas Cards: An Aussie Twist on Tradition
There's something uniquely magical about Christmas in Australia. The sunshine, salty air, and gentle sound of waves replacing jingling bells and snow. While the rest of the world bundles up in scarves and mittens, we're celebrating barefoot on the sand with seafood, surfboards, and endless summer skies (and the odd afternoon thunderstorm). That's the spirit captured in my beach Christmas cards. A joyful nod to our coastal way of life and a refreshing twist on tradition. These cards celebrate festive cheer with ocean blues, golden sands, and all the charm of an Aussie summer Christmas.
Why Choose Coastal Christmas Cards Australia?
The Aussie Summer Christmas Vibe
When December rolls around, Australia swaps snowflakes for sea breezes. The scent of sunscreen replaces pine forests, and lunch is more likely to be prawns and salad than turkey by the fire. Our Christmas is bright, warm, and full of outdoor fun and our greeting cards should reflect that!
Coastal Christmas cards capture the heart of an Australian Christmas: relaxed, sun-soaked, and filled with joy. Whether you live by the coast or just dream of it, these designs feel like home.
What Makes Coastal Designs Stand Out
Each design tells a story of the Australian summer holiday season. A fusion of festive tradition and beachside bliss. Think starfish instead of snowflakes, cocktails instead of cocoa, and sandy toes instead of snow boots.
These cards stand out not only for their unique visuals but also for celebrating our version of Christmas. One that's playful, warm, and distinctly Aussie.
The Inspiration Behind the Collection
For years, I found it nearly impossible to find Christmas cards (without cartoon animals) that reflected what life here is truly like. We don't have sleigh rides or snow-covered rooftops. We have sunny skies, the ocean, and a laid-back festive spirit.
That's why I created this collection. To share a bit of our Australian summer magic with friends and family both here and overseas.
The very first card, Sand Snowman, began as a fun day at the beach with my nephews during their school holidays. We built a "snowman" out of sand, complete with a Santa hat and a big grin. The laughter, the sunshine, and the simple joy of that day became the heart behind this collection.
The Collection: 5 Designs That Capture the Aussie Christmas Spirit
Each card in this set reflects the warmth, humour, and coastal beauty that make our Christmas so memorable.
1. Santa's Beach Hat
This one includes a cheeky Santa hat resting on golden sand under a soft summer sky. It's simple, playful, and instantly brings a smile. The perfect choice for anyone who dreams of a Christmas spent oceanside.
2. Coastal Christmas Tree
A small pine tree decorated with starfish and shells, standing in the sand dunes. A coastal take on the traditional Christmas tree. This design captures the balance between festive tradition and coastal serenity.
3. Christmas Cocktail
With two bright summer drinks in Christmas bauble glasses under a beach umbrella, this design is a celebration of summer gatherings and festive cheer, best shared with friends and laughter.
4. Eucalyptus Wreath
A soft, natural take on Christmas décor, featuring a eucalyptus wreath framing red and gold ornaments in the sand. This one's for lovers of minimalist coastal styling. It's timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Australian.
5. Sand Snowman
The card that started it all. A whimsical sand sculpture with a Santa hat and tinsel scarf. This card is full of personality and fond family memories. It's a true conversation starter and always brings a laugh from overseas friends who've never seen a “snowman" made of sand.
(All cards are professionally printed on premium stock with vivid colours that capture the beauty of the coast.)
Why Australians Love These Designs
Each design tells its own story, but together they form a cohesive celebration of our coastal identity. They're lighthearted, modern, and genuine. Perfect for sending to loved ones overseas who might never experience a summer Christmas.
For many Australians, these cards are more than just greetings. They're a way to share a little piece of home, sunshine, and surf with the world.
How to Buy Coastal Christmas Cards Australia
If you're ready to ditch the snowflakes for sunshine, these cards are available in the shop. If you're local to Southeast Queensland, keep an eye on my socials to pick these up in person at the markets.
Tips for Buyers:
• Order early (October–November) to ensure timely delivery for international recipients.
• Look for Australian-made cards that support local artists and printers.
• Choose eco-friendly, quality paper stock for a premium feel.
• Consider pairing cards with matching fine art prints for a cohesive look.
Shipping:
We are currently shipping cards only within Australia. A small set shipping fee is calculated at checkout, so why not pick a couple of cards to make the most of it?
Decorating & Display Ideas
Your Christmas cards don't have to end up in a drawer — turn them into festive décor!
• Frame them in simple white or timber frames for a beach-house look.
• String them together as a garland across a mantel or window.
• Create a photo wall by pairing cards with coastal prints for an artful holiday display.
After Christmas, these cards double as mini artworks — a lasting reminder of warm memories and coastal charm.
FAQs About Beach Christmas Cards Australia
1. What makes Australian Christmas cards unique?
They reflect our summer lifestyle of beaches, sunshine, and relaxed, festive vibes rather than snowy scenes.
2. Are these cards Australian-made?
Yes! Each card is proudly designed and printed in Australia, supporting local artistry and craftsmanship.
3. Can I send these cards overseas?
Absolutely. They're lightweight, post-friendly, and loved by recipients around the world for their sunny twist on Christmas.
4. Are the cards eco-friendly?
Yes, printed on sustainable, high-quality paper that feels luxurious while being kind to the planet.
5. What size are the cards?
Standard A6 size (10.5cm x 14cm) with a matching envelope, perfect for mailing or framing as décor.
An Australian Christmas might look different from the snowy postcards of the Northern Hemisphere but that's precisely what makes it so special. Coastal Christmas cards are a beautiful way to share our warm, beachy traditions with loved ones near and far.
Whether it's the cheeky grin of the Sand Snowman, the serene Coastal Christmas Tree, or the elegance of the Eucalyptus Wreath, each card tells a story of sunshine, laughter, and love.
Shop the full collection today and send a little slice of Australian summer around the world.
Author
Leah Hermann is a landscape and travel photographer based on the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Through her brand, Lens Art Images, she creates fine art photography prints that bring the beauty of the world into everyday spaces. Each piece is printed on museum-quality paper, inspired by nature, and made to last.