14 Small Beach House Plans Under 1,200 Square Feet

Beach Bungalow, Plan #243

This 921-square-foot cottage has it all: a wide-open deck that's perfect for hanging with friends after a day in the sun; a living room, dining room, kitchen, bedroom, and bath on the first floor; and a screened porch that opens up to another spacious deck on the back of the house. A spiral staircase off the kitchen leads to a second-floor sleeping loft that has access to a small balcony.

• 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
• 921 square feet

Sawgrass Cottage, Plan #1257

This coastal plan has it all—including a garage. Our favorite aspects are the multiple bay windows, port-like circle window, screened porch, covered deck, and outdoor shower.

• 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
• 1,176 square feet

Palmetto Cottage, Plan #2009

This Lowcountry-style cottage may only be 656 square feet and include one bedroom, but it has an ample front porch for relaxing and visiting on breezy nights. The open-concept plan allows for seamless entertaining, with a vaulted ceiling that makes the living space feel roomier than it is. This makes Palmetto Cottage a great choice for a guest cottage or retirement home.

• 1 bedroom, 1 bath
• 656 square feet

Shoreline Cottage, Plan #490

Clocking in at 930 square feet, our Shoreline Cottage is small but mighty lovely. Inspiration for this plan came from one city-dwelling family's desire for a simple house by the sea that would capture serene views from all sides. The board-and-batten exterior, gabled roof, and generous porch set a traditional tone, while tall windows and an open interior give the home a modern spin.

The main level features an open living room, kitchen, and dining room. Built-in window seats on two walls in the open living space provide hidden storage and cozy spots to curl up with a book. Two bedrooms and a bath complete the main level, while upstairs, a sleeping loft (accessed by a ladder) provides additional accommodations or storage.

• 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
• 930 square feet

Boathouse & Bunkhouse, Plan #049

This truly tiny structure—at 376 square feet—can be outfitted as a diminutive cabin retreat or as an attractive storage space for boats. As a bunkhouse-style cottage, the space offers cozy comfort to homeowners and visiting guests. Windows on every wall let in natural light and help the small space feel larger. The wood siding, shuttered windows, and metal roof with exposed rafter tails create the look of a boathouse renovated as a welcoming weekend cottage.

• 1 bedroom, 1 bath
• 376 square feet

Brunswick Cottage, Plan #595

Cedar shingles and wooden brackets accent the peaked gables of this 1,184-square-foot home, while details like decorative wood paneling below the windows, a standing seam metal roof, and the stone chimney add crowning touches. The heart of this cottage is the galley-style kitchen and casual dining area thoughtfully designed as one integrated space. Windows let natural light fill the room and offer views at every turn. A deep front porch and screened porch off of the rear of the home make outdoor spaces a natural extension of the home. The second level offers two spacious bedrooms and a full bath.

• 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
• 1,184 square feet

Budget Beach House, Plan #102

This simple design may be economical, but it's a nod to turn-of-the-century beach houses. Made with natural materials designed to weather like the surroundings, this home also has views of the ocean, a large living space, a loft bedroom, and parking underneath. A durable metal-clad roof reflects heat, while glass doors line the deck.

• 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms
• 751 square feet

Carolina Craftsman, Plan #050

This quaint, 1,120-square-foot cottage features two covered porches: an open-air hangout that welcomes guests on the front and a small screened porch on the back. Inside, the front door opens to a spacious family room, which leads to a small kitchen (with access to the screened porch). Off the family room is a hall that leads to a full bath and two bedrooms. The primary bedroom features an adjoining full bath and a walk-in closet.

• 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
• 1,120 square feet

Beachside Bungalow, Plan #1117

At 484 square feet, this sweet little cottage, with its charming gabled roof and gracious front porch, is ideal for an oceanfront retreat for two. The plan features a living room, kitchen with a peninsula and plenty of counter space (plus a pantry), and a primary bedroom with an en suite closet and bath.

• 1 bedroom, 1 bath
• 484 square feet

Eagle's Nest, Plan #739

The multi-purpose main level of this petite 634-square-foot charmer features an open kitchen and living room, laundry room, and bathroom. It opens to a large screened porch that can extend the dining area. Upstairs offers plenty of space for a loft bedroom and bath thanks to the pitched roof.

• 1 bedroom, 2 baths
• 634 square feet

Garden Cottage, Plan #1830

At 540 square feet, this tiny cottage may be small, but it's a good place for a weekend escape. The covered front porch offers a spot to enjoy nice weather, and a fireplace brings cozy comfort to small living. The large bedroom opens to the covered porch.

• 1 bedroom, 1 bath
• 540 square feet

The Duplex House, Plan #2014

As a two-unit house that gives the appearance of one home, this plan is perfect for a beach retreat to pile in a large family. Each side can function separately with dual living, cooking, and sleeping areas or be re-outfitted to accommodate one primary community space.

• 2 bedroom, 2 bath
• 1,055 square feet

Idea House At Fontanel Carriage House, Plan #1856

This welcoming cottage might be tight on space, but it certainly lives large thanks to the gracious porch. While the lower floor is designed as a guest suite, the floor plan can easily be re-outfitted as an entertaining space with an expanded kitchen— keeping the second floor dedicated to sleeping quarters.

• 2 bedroom, 2 bath
• 1,099 square feet

Weekender Cabin, #156

Board and batten siding and ship details make this 770-square-foot weekend home a welcoming retreat that fits in on the coast. The main living area features stairs that lead to the crow's nest above, as well as access to a screened porch. The back deck extends to a dune or beach walkover complete with a shower and rinsing sink.

• 1 bedroom, 1 bath
• 770 square feet