Have you ever experienced a moment of inner peace while standing on the ocean’s edge?
I began to search for names that brought to mind sea breeze mornings as well as sun-warmed skin beside the ocean with seashells held in small hands and waves touching bare feet.
I searched for meaningful names that have their origins in mythology and nature as well as in sea-revering cultures.
Neve, Isla, and Mira represent names that are delicate and breezy.
Some names stand out with their bold and unforgettable presence including Calypso, Ocean, and Salacia.
Several names such as Pearl, Serena, and Nerissa achieve the ideal combination of softness and strength.
Here I present 125 beachy girl names that reflect both the natural rhythm of ocean waves and the serene confidence of a nature-connected spirit, along with the sunlight’s sparkle on water.
Those who feel the ocean represents a part of their inner world will discover their source of inspiration here. Let’s dive in.
Isla
Popular across English-speaking countries, Isla comes from the Scottish island Islay and also matches the Spanish word for “island.” It gained fame through actress Isla Fisher and even appears in the royal family.
Elena
This pan-European form of Helen means “shining light” and is widely used across cultures including Spanish, Italian, and Greek.
Mira
A truly international name, it appears in Latin, Arabic, Slavic, and Sanskrit. Mira can mean “peace,” “queen,” “fate,” and “ocean,” depending on the language.
Talia
Talia has dual roots: in Hebrew, it means “dew from heaven,” while in Australian Aboriginal tradition, it’s linked to water. It’s gained attention through figures like Talia Shire and internet star Talia Joy.
Maren
Maren stems from Latin, meaning “sea,” and shares ties with the coastal Marin County, though Maren puts the stress on the first syllable.
Isadora
This Greek name means “gift of Isis” and shares the same nickname potential as Isabella. Quirky and classic, it’s ripe for rediscovery.
Soleil
French for “sun,” Soleil is bright and distinctive, popularized by Punky Brewster star Soleil Moon Frye. It’s charming nature inspired choice as both a first and middle name.
Pearl
With Latin roots, Pearl is tied to the June birthstone and literary gems like The Scarlet Letter. Once a Top 25 name, it’s making a vintage comeback.
Marina
Meaning “from the sea” in Latin, Marina appeared in Shakespeare’s Pericles and has saintly & historical associations. It’s widely used in Spain and has a subtle beachy grace.
Serena
Serena means “calm” or “serene” in Latin and has been around since Roman times. Boosted by tennis icon Serena Williams and characters from Gossip Girl to The Faerie Queen, it’s both strong and graceful.
Elaine
A Scottish and French form of Helen, Elaine means “bright” or “shining light.” Known from Arthurian legend and classic TV, it peaked in popularity mid-20th century thanks to its El- beginning.
Chiara
Chiara is an Italian name meaning “clear” or “light.” Revered for its soft beauty, it’s tied to St. Clare of Assisi and remains a top choice in Italy.
Elora
Elora likely comes from Eliora or Elnora and means “God is my light” or “sun ray.” The name’s melodic sound combined with recent pop culture references makes it a top choice for modern parents.
Piper
An energetic English name meaning “flute player,” Piper took off after the TV show Charmed. The musical twist and spunky sound keep it popular among P names.
Solana
Solana is a Spanish name meaning “sunshine” or “sunny place.” This beachy girl name feels cheerful and bright, with natural warmth baked into its meaning.
Nellie
Vintage and charming, Nellie means “sun ray” or “horn” and brings a nostalgic touch. Once a nickname, it’s now gaining recognition in its own right.
Calypso
With Greek roots meaning “she who hides,” Calypso is rich in myth and music. She’s the sea nymph who detained Odysseus and also the heartbeat of a Caribbean music style.
Indigo
Indigo comes from Greek and refers to the deep blue-purple dye from Indian plant. As a color name, it’s bold and creative and suits both girls and boys.
Lana
Stylish yet simple, Lana means “rock” or “handsome.” It found early fame via actress Lana Turner, and more recently through singer Lana Del Rey.
Elle
French for “she,” Elle is sleek and chic with major pop culture presence. Short, elegant, and on trend with beachy girl names, it’s a go-to choice for modern minimalists.
Jennifer
Originally Cornish, Jennifer means “white wave” and hit peak popularity in the 1970s. Though it’s no longer at the top, it remains widely loved.
Sunny
A joyful name meaning “cheerful” or “sunshine.” Whether on its own or short for Sunniva, it’s upbeat and sweet.
Neve
Neve, from Irish, Italian, and Hebrew origins, can mean “snow,” “bright,” or “life.” While its pronunciation changes between cultures yet retains a soft modern sound.
Summer
An easygoing seasonal name, Summer entered the scene in the ‘70s and hasn’t left. The name Summer brings to mind joyful times under bright blue skies and happy memories. Because of its presence in pop culture and cool breezy vibe it appeals to parents who love nature.
Morgan
Morgan, meaning “sea-born” in Welsh, began as a male name but is now more often feminine in the U.S. Tied to Arthurian legends and the sea, it’s a strong, unisex choice.
Jenna
Jenna stems from Jennifer, sharing the meaning “white wave.” It gained notice in the ‘80s and has a First Daughter connection. The name remains well-known and feminine yet avoids being overly common today.
Ariel
The Disney association made Ariel an attractive girl name. The name originates from Hebrew and means “lion of God.” The name maintains its position as a top choice among gentle yet powerful names.
Madison
Originally an English surname meaning “son of Matthew,” Madison became a top girls’ name after the 1984 movie Splash. Despite its masculine origin, it surged as a feminine name and peaked in the early 2000s.
Marley
This breezy name means “pleasant seaside meadow.” It spiked in popularity after Bob Marley became a naming inspiration, with various spellings like Marlee and Marely also on trend.
Leilani
The Hawaiian name Leilani translates to “heavenly flower” and possesses both poetic charm and tropical vibes. It’s especially favored in Hawaii and among lovers of floral names.
Skye
Inspired by the Isle of Skye off Scotland, this name suggests nature and openness. It’s been a favorite since appearing on soap operas in the ’80s and often chosen as a middle name.
Marin
With Latin roots meaning “of the sea,” Marin also nods to the scenic California county. Pronunciation varies, but whether MAR-in or Ma-RIN, it’s quietly sophisticated. Equally used for boys in Europe, it brings a crisp, unisex style to sea-themed names.
Ellen
A medieval English form of Helen, Ellen means “shining light” or “torch.” Once a favorite in classic literature and politics, Ellen remains elegant and subtle yet continues to stand the test of time with quiet brilliance.
Morwenna
An ancient Welsh name meaning “maiden,” Morwenna has a poetic quality with sea-linked undertones. Known from British dramas like Poldark and Doc Martin, it feels mythic and fresh.
Nixie
Meaning “water sprite” in German, it combines traditional folklore elements with contemporary style to serve as a fun substitute for Pixie or Dixie.
Lainey
Derived from Elaine, Lainey means “shining light” and has become more popular than its formal forms. It brings a sweet, friendly energy and fits the trend of nickname-style first names.
Coralie
Coralie means “coral” and has French and Latin origins. Less common than similar-sounding names, it’s gaining attention for its soft, beachy elegance.
Naia
With meanings like “dolphin,” “to flow,” and “wave,” Naia has rich aquatic connections. Rooted in Greek, Basque, and Hawaiian, it celebrates water in all its forms.
Elina
Derived from Helen, Elina means “bright, shining light” and holds roots across Spanish, Italian, German, and Greek traditions. Subtle and graceful, it sits quietly on the edges of popularity.
Nerissa
With Greek roots meaning “from the sea,” Nerissa offers a refreshing alternative to names like Melissa or Marisa. A royal cousin of Queen Elizabeth also shares the name.
Sierra
Borrowed from the Spanish word for “mountain range,” Sierra suggests rugged beauty and strength. Inspired by the Sierra Nevada, it’s long been associated with the wild west.
Doris
Doris comes from Greek mythology, meaning “gift of the ocean.” Linked to sea nymphs and actress Doris Day, it’s now re-emerging after years of dormancy.
Morgana
A feminized twist on Morgan, Morgana means “born of the sea” and feels rich in legend. Though uncommon it remains elegantly beautiful through its presence in Arthurian legends and folklore.
Sora
Meaning “sky” in Japanese and “conch shell” in Korean, Sora is a short, serene, multicultural name. It floats with lightness and simplicity, making it ideal for beach lovers and minimalist namers.
Maris
Latin for “of the sea,” Maris is a rare name with gentle strength. Through its association with “Stella Maris” of the Virgin Mary this name provides a gentle spiritual reference.
Corisande
The name Corisande translates to “chorus-singer” and has origins in medieval history along with literary significance. This rare name appears often in romantic stories and classic literature.
Sereia
The Portuguese word for “mermaid.” The intriguing meaning of this mystical name makes learning its pronunciation worthwhile despite its complexity for English speakers.
Muriel
Irish in origin, Muriel means “of the bright sea” and once ranked among poetic Celtic names. The name has fallen out of modern favor but maintains historical depth and it could surprise in a comeback.
Nori
Nori is a Japanese name meaning “doctrine” or “seaweed,” and has made a splash thanks to pop culture and sleek simplicity. In addition, it also fits the trend of short, stylish names like Zuri and Leni.
Waverly
Meaning “meadow of quivering aspens,” Waverly can be linked with waves. Popularized by shows like Wizards of Waverly Place, it’s both romantic and spunky.
Capri
The Italian island serves as the inspiration behind the name Capri which conveys both Mediterranean elegance and natural beauty. Its meanings range from “wild boar” to “goat,” rooted in ancient Greek and Latin.
Sailor
A nautical name meaning “sea-farer,” Sailor caught attention thanks to Christie Brinkley. It’s now more popular in the spelling Saylor, especially for girls.
Marissa
The name Marissa combines classic elements, deriving from either Maris or a combination of Maria and Louisa. It can mean “drop of the sea,” “bitter,” or “beloved,” with added strength from Louisa’s meaning of “famous battle.”
Ocean
Ocean is rising fast as a gender-neutral name. It made the U.S. Top 1000 for both girls and boys. Ocean presents the limitless expanse of the sea in its most powerful and direct form.
Coral
A Victorian favorite, Coral means “sea growth” in Latin and recalls the beauty of ocean reefs. Though once outshined by Ruby and Pearl, soft and colorful, Coral is starting to regain its sparkle.
Saga
Swedish in origin, Saga means both “story” and “seeress,” giving it a literary and mystical vibe. She was a Norse goddess tied to poetry and prophecy.
Crystal
From the Greek for “ice,” Crystal once sparkled in the Top 10 but now offers a nostalgic twist. It serves as an excellent choice for parents seeking less common names than Ruby or Gemma.
Nami
A Japanese name meaning “wave” or “ocean wave,” Nami is short and graceful. The anime One Piece introduced us to a character known for her adventurous spirit and quick thinking. A unique pick for beach-loving families.
Azure
Meaning “sky blue,” Azure is a vivid and gender-neutral name with natural elegance. Recently chosen by Elon Musk, Azure is poised for greater recognition.
Thalassa
From Greek mythology, Thalassa is the personification of the sea. Rarely heard, it’s lyrical and meaningful, offering a deep connection to water.
Marilla
Latin for “shining sea,” Marilla is sweet, vintage, and softly feminine. Known from Anne of Green Gables, it has a literary connection and old-world charm.
Malia
Hawaiian in origin, Malia means “bitter” and is a form of Mary. The name Malia received widespread attention when President Obama named his daughter after it.
Misty
A name drawn from nature, Misty means “mist” and suggests mystery and softness. Peaking in the ’70s, it’s now a gentle vintage pick.
Neoma
Neoma has dual meanings—“new moon” in Greek and “pleasantness” in Hebrew apart from being luxury beachfront properties in Greece. This name serves as a beautiful alternative for those who love Luna or Naomi but seek something more unusual.
Kailani
Kailani means “sea and sky” in Hawaiian, combining the elements into one lyrical name. Rising fast in popularity, it feels tropical, fluid, and free-spirited.
Kona
Kona, meaning “leeward” in Hawaiian and “woman” in Old Norse, is bold and straightforward. Kona coffee and Hawaiian islands create earthy and strong associations with this name.
Kairi
A Japanese name meaning “sea,” Kairi gained popularity through the Kingdom Hearts video game series. With soft sounds and a strong heroine behind it, Kairi has steadily risen since entering the U.S.
Ula
Celtic in origin, Ula means “gem of the sea” and shines with quiet uniqueness. Also a short form of names like Ursula or Eulalia, it’s soft sound and rare U-beginning make it stand out.
Suvi
From Finland, Suvi means “summer” and feels fresh and bright. Light on the tongue and rare outside Scandinavia, it makes an adorable beachy name for a girl.
Bay
Latin-rooted and nature-inspired, Bay is short, modern, and effortlessly cool. Bay brings to mind ocean waves alongside laurel trees.
Halcyon
Greek in origin, Halcyon means “kingfisher” and refers to calm, peaceful days. It’s tied to mythology where the bird could still the sea. Though rare, Halcyon feels poetic and peaceful.
Darya
With Persian and Russian roots, Darya means “the sea” and “kingly.” Elegant yet strong, it’s seen in literature like Anna Karenina.
Vela
Sanskrit and Latin origins give Vela a dual meaning: “shore” and “sail.” It’s also a constellation in the Southern sky, once part of the Argo Navis.
Anahita
A Persian name meaning “immaculate” and tied to the ancient water goddess, Anahita is both mythological and majestic. She represents fertility, wisdom, and purity.
Nerida
From Greek, Nerida means “sea nymph,” and also relates to “water lily” in some Australian Aboriginal languages. Nerida is rare yet easily understood, perfect for a child connected to the water.
Undine
Undine means “little wave” in Latin and refers to water spirits in European folklore. It’s ethereal and literary, found in stories and mythology alike.
Noelani
Hawaiian in origin, Noelani means “heavenly mist” and feels both gentle and celestial. Noelani stands out because it harmoniously fits the Noel theme intended for December-born babies to the beaches.
Brisa
A Spanish name meaning “breeze” and represents a soft yet dynamic presence. Brisa remains a favorite within Latinx communities.
Oceana
Greek in origin, Oceana is the feminine form of Oceanus, the sea god. Sea lovers will adore this majestic and melodious name. While Ocean leans unisex, Oceana is purely feminine and mythical.
Amphitrite
A bold Greek mythological name, Amphitrite was the sea goddess and wife of Poseidon. She personifies the sea itself. History enthusiasts who value power will find this daring selection ideal.
Gali
A short and spirited Hebrew name, Gali means “wave.” Simple yet vibrant, it has a gentle rise and fall in its sound, echoing the motion of the sea.
Mar
Spanish and Portuguese for “sea,” Mar is a minimalist gem. Though used as a nickname for Marina or Martina, it stands strong on its own.
Cali
California influences Cali’s cheerful vibe which creates a relaxed and carefree feeling. The name Cali traces back to Latin words meaning “beautiful” or “fairest” and resonates with the coastal atmosphere of California.
Akira
This Japanese name means “bright” or “intelligent” and works well across cultures. It is tied to pop culture and anime. In addition, the Scottish meaning of “anchor” gives this choice a solid foundation.
Isley
Isley has English and German roots and could mean “blacksmith” or “island grove.” This name appeals to those who appreciate surnames and subtle connections to natural places.
Aqua
Aqua represents the modern name for “water” and offers a sense of coolness and deep refreshment. The name Aqua merges color-name quality with oceanic origins through its four-letters.
Moana
From Māori and Samoan roots, Moana means “deep sea” and surged in popularity thanks to Disney. For families seeking a strong, water-linked name with a global feel, Moana is a standout.
Laguna
This rare name means “pond” or “lake,” channels laid-back beach-town vibes, especially thanks to Laguna Beach.
Danu
In Irish mythology, Danu represents a powerful mother goddess linked to both water and earth elements. Danu represents a timeless choice which connects to both Celtic heritage and divine aspects.
Halia
Halia stands as a Hawaiian name meaning “remembrance of a loved one” while holding both beauty and emotional depth. It appears as a Greek mythological sea nymph which broadens its cross-cultural attractiveness.
Breeze
With Welsh and English roots, Breeze means “light wind” and brings instant freshness. Parents looking for a beach-inspired name with appeal will find Breeze to be striking.
Sirena
A mythic Greek name meaning “enchanter,” Sirena pays homage to the sirens of legend. This beautiful twist on Serena is melodic, powerful, and a little mysterious.
Venice
The Italian city name Venice combines romance with cultural wealth. The name Venice offers global sophistication and is a fashionable ideal choice for a budding dreamer.
Hali
Hali, meaning “the sea” in Greek, is a soft and modern take on oceanic names. It comes from the mythological sea nymph Halimeda, making it a great fit for lovers of ancient lore and coastal beauty.
Isle
Isle, the English word for “small island,” offers a cute alternative to Isla. Minimalist Isle represent a nature-inspired name that combines contemporary elegance with poetic freshness.
Maricela
The name Maricela combines Maria and Celia to create a romantic Spanish moniker that represents “drop of the sea” or “beloved of heaven.”
Jamaica
Jamaica, meaning “rich in springs,” is a bold and rhythmic place name with Caribbean charm. Evocative of music, it is also associated with author Jamaica Kincaid.
Noya
Of Hebrew and Cherokee origins, Noya means “beauty” or “sand.” As delicate as a seashell, Noya feels both earthy and spiritual.
Malibu
Named after the sunny Californian beach town, Malibu means “the surf sounds loudly” in the Chumash language. For free spirits and sunshine lovers, Malibu comes with Hollywood flair.
Sandy
Sandy, a unisex name of Greek origin, stems from Alexander and Sandra, meaning “defender of mankind.” It also connects directly to beachy vibes through its literal connection to sand.
Firth
Firth, meaning “estuary” in Scottish, is an offbeat rugged nature name. Its Old Norse roots create vivid images of dramatic seashore scenery alongside subtle power.
Harbor
Harbor means “shelter” or “safe haven,” and feels both grounded and sea-linked. Harbor stands as a heartfelt and peaceful selection for both maritime symbolism and home metaphor.
Auria
Latin in origin, Auria means “wind” or “soft breeze.” Related to Aura and Aurora, it shares the same celestial glow but maintains its distinction through quiet elegance.
Terri
Terri, a unisex diminutive of Teresa or Thierry, means “late summer,” “harvester,” or “people’s ruler.” Originating from Latin and Greek this name maintains its foundation while remaining friendly
Salacia
The name originates from “sal,” which stands for “salt.” In Roman mythology, Salacia was Neptune’s sea goddess and personified sunlit saltwater.
Thetis
Thetis, a name from Greek mythology, was the sea goddess and mother of Achilles. Though rarely used today, it holds a rich mythological backstory backed by strength and grace.
Ngaio
The Maori name Ngaio which sounds like “ng-EYE-oh” represents water reflections and a native tree from New Zealand. It’s distinctive and poetic, famously borne by crime writer Ngaio Marsh.
Shelly
The name Shelly functions as a gender-neutral name which means both “little rock” and “ewe” while also representing “meadow.”
Merrigan
The surname-based name Merrigan shares a connection with Kerrigan. The lively Merrigan name offers a powerful yet friendly sound that makes it an ideal choice for contemporary girls.
Kishi
Meaning “beach” or “seashore” in Japanese, Kishi is a soft yet powerful name rooted in nature.
Pacifica
Pacifica, meaning “peaceful” in Spanish, is a graceful, oceanic name. The name Pacifica brings to mind the expansive Pacific Ocean and possesses an aura of spiritual calmness.
Zaley
A playful twist on names like Bailey and Hailey, Zaley combines modern style with ocean-inspired roots via Zale. Meaning “sea strength” or “bright,” it’s both cute and today’s trend-forward names.
San
San is a soft, nature-infused name meaning “sandpiper bird,” rooted in British. The name San has Burmese roots too and means “spring,” “moon,” and “good luck” in the language.
Bali
The term Bali derives from Sanskrit meaning “strength” but also represents the lush Indonesian island. Nature-loving parents and adventurers will find this choice exceptionally beautiful.
Palma
Palma means “palm tree” and is tied to the sun-soaked Spanish city on the island of Majorca. It is an ideal selection for spring or tropical-themed baby names.
Kaimana
A Hawaiian name meaning “the power of the ocean,” Kaimana is both melodious and powerful. It merges the natural elements of sea and strength into a single, flowing name.
Nerina
Derived from the Greek for “sea nymph,” Nerina links directly to the mythic Nereids considered as the graceful guardians of the sea.
Zuma
Zuma is a vibrant name with varied cultural ties from Arabic roots meaning “peace” to the sandy shores of Zuma Beach in California.
Onda
Onda is Italian for “wave.” Though short and simple, it is a worthy choice for those who want a minimalist name rooted in nature.
Pearla
The name Pearla combines classic elegance with oceanic charm and originates from Latin roots that mean “pearl.”
Venilia
Venilia is a rare, melodic name rooted in Roman mythology, where she was a sea and wind nymph. A graceful alternative for those who love sweet-sounding names.
Corabella
Romantic Corabella stands for “maiden” in Greek and combines Cora’s gentle nature with Bella’s melodic appeal.
Shore
The word name Shore presents simple serenity and brings to mind beach views and peaceful ocean waves. An excellent choice for summer babies.
Briseida
Briseida comes from Latin and Greek roots, meaning “breeze” or “distinguished.” It shares history with the epic tale of Briseis from The Iliad, adding a strong literary backbone.
Sabeen
Sabeen, with Latin and Arabic origins, holds meanings like “morning breeze” and “graceful warrior.” It’s both fierce and gentle with catlike elegance and soft rhythm.
Avisa
The poetic name has dual origins, “ocean” in Sanskrit and “bird” in Latin. The name represent a soul that possesses the vastness of the sea and the freedom of a bird.
Wrapping Up
Beachy names hold greater significance than just their visual charm. It speaks of strength and grace. Of nature and freedom. Of warmth and wonder.
Each name included in this list has a fragment of ocean energy.
As you read you may have felt something awaken inside you when you saw the names Nerina, Calypsoor Waverly.
You would understand that a name fits when it speaks to you softly yet distinctly.
Whether your baby girl is growing up near the water or you’re simply someone who carries the sea in your heart, I hope you found what you were looking for.
I appreciate the time you spent with me to explore these names.
