Modern Coastal Counter Stools for a Stylish Kitchen Island
A curated roundup of counter height stools with backs that bring style, comfort, and a coastal look to your kitchen.
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I’ve been on the hunt for modern coastal counter stools for my kitchen island, and am shopping on a budget. As much as I love some of the styles from designer coastal brands like Serena & Lily, I’m only considering options that are more affordable, while still having a designer look. Since I’ve spent time comparing styles, materials, and reviews, I decided to round up my favorite coastal counter stools to make it easier for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen seating.
These counter stools all have backs for support and combine classic coastal colors like natural rattan, soft greens, and white with practical modern designs. They’re perfect for casual breakfasts, afternoon homework, or catching up with friends at your kitchen island while keeping a relaxed, modern coastal vibe. If you’re looking for woven textures, upholstered seats, or sturdy wood finishes, this collection covers a variety of options that blend coastal style and function.
You can scroll down to see all the counter height stools I rounded up, featuring modern coastal designs that are perfect for any standard kitchen island.
Counter Stools vs. Bar Stools
While shopping for coastal counter stools for my kitchen island, something quickly became clear. Many people refer to all kitchen stools as ‘bar stools,’ even though counter height stools are what actually fit under a standard island. Understanding the difference can help you pick the right height and design for your space:
- Counter stools: 24-26 inches high, fit under standard kitchen islands (36 inches high), and are ideal for most home kitchens.
- Bar stools: 28-30 inches high, meant for taller bars or countertops, not typically suitable for kitchen islands.
Keeping this distinction in mind will ensure your seating is both stylish and functional.
Elevate Your Kitchen Island with These Modern Coastal Counter Stools
Some of the styles shown here come in numerous coastal color options!
- Rattan Counter Stool
- Mint Green Diamond-Back Wood Counter Stool – I also like this in white!
- Natural Bistro Counter Height Stool
- Upholstered Spindle Counter Height Stool
- Teal and Cream Striped Upholstered Counter Stool
- Lattice-Back Rattan Counter Stool
- White Wood Spindle Back Counter Height Stool
- White Washed Rattan and Wood Counter Stool
- Cane Upholstered Counter Stool
- Green Wood Counter Stool
- White Washed Rattan Counter Stool – There’s also a “natural” color option that’s nice.
- Seagrass Counter Stool
Related: 25 Neutral Coastal Accent Chairs Under $500 to Complete Your Room
What to Look for in Coastal Counter Stools
When choosing the right chairs for your kitchen island, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Height matters: Make sure you choose true counter height stools, typically around 24-26 inches for a 36-inch counter. These differ from standard bar height stools, which are taller and meant for bars or higher surfaces. You’ll want to measure your counter to make sure you’re shopping for the correct item.
- Backs for comfort: Counter stools with backs are more comfortable for longer sitting, especially if you plan to use them for meals, homework, or casual conversations.
- Materials and finishes: Coastal styles often use rattan, wicker, light woods, soft upholstery, and muted coastal colors like blues, greens, whites, and sand shades.
- Footrests and stability: Look for stools with built-in footrests and sturdy legs for safety and comfort.
- Style versatility: Neutral tones and classic shapes allow the stools to pair well with multiple kitchen styles and easily adapt if you refresh your kitchen decor in the future.
Save These Modern Coastal Counter Stools
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Coastal Counter Stools
Upgrading your kitchen island with modern coastal counter stools is a simple way to add style, comfort, and a sophisticated beachy look to your home. From woven textures to upholstered seats in muted coastal shades, these counter height stools with backs create a welcoming and functional seating area.
Perfect for hosting casual breakfasts, evening chats, or coffee breaks, these stools bring a polished yet relaxed vibe to your kitchen while staying aligned with classic coastal style. This roundup highlights options that are versatile, stylish, and practical, making it easier to choose the perfect counter chairs for your kitchen island.
Which modern coastal counter stools would you add to your kitchen island? Share your thoughts in the comments.
