Living in the Southern Hemisphere certainly comes with it's perks - one of them being Summer sunshine at Christmas time. With many South Africans spending Christmas holidays at the coast, we thought we'd share some inspiration for beach house Christmas decor ideas that you can DIY!

1. SPARKLY SEA SHELL DECORATIONS

Make these sparkly shell decorations for your beachy themed tree or Christmas table. This works on any type of shell you can collect off the beach and the results are gorgeous! Select glitter colours of your choice and apply with adhesive. Attach thin gold wire and clear beads for a fab finish.

You can also make a metallic version by spraying a selection of shells in a metallic spray paint. We love the champagne colour used on these hanging shell decorations.

2. BEAUTIFUL BEACH WREATHS

Nothing sets the festive mood like a Christmas wreath welcoming your guests into the front door. Make your own using materials from the sea for a beachy twist on a classic Christmas favourite. Shells, sea grass and washed up wood make for wonderful Summer wreaths:

3. A SNOWMAN SANDCASTLE

It might not be snowing outside, but that doesn't mean you can't make a "sandman". Get the kids involved in your beach themed Christmas with a Summer snowman building competition.

4. SAND FILLED BAUBLES

A Christmas favourite, the decorative bauble comes in all shapes, styles and sizes! If you can find simple, transparent glass balls, beach them up by removing the top fixture and filling half way with beach sand and small shells!

5. GET CREATIVE WITH CANDLES

Put down the Christmas themed candles and create a Summer-inspired table decor with natural materials in calming colours. Who said Christmas candles had to be red?