There’s something mesmerizing about the ocean and all the wonderful creatures that live there. Bring that beautiful world into your next celebration and plan a magical under the sea party! Whether you’re hosting an under the sea birthday party or baby shower, we have 15 ideas for making it an event to remember.
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Under the Sea Party Decor
Luckily, sea creatures come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. It can be super easy to find the best party decorations for your under the sea party! No matter your color scheme, you can still have cohesive sea decorations with simple items.
Seaweed streamers
Seaweed is a sea staple, so this is a must-have decoration! Start with green or teal streamers and some tape. Cut a long strip of streamer and tape one end to the base of your wall. Then twist a few times and tape at the top. Voila! Instant ocean-themed decor.
DIY coral reef sculptures
For a more decadent feel, we love this pool noodle craft! You can usually find pool noodles for $1 or $2 apiece, so it won’t break the bank. Grab a box cutter and some wire hangers and get to work! This isn’t a kid-friendly craft, so you might want to do this during nap time.
Need more coral inspiration? We’ve got it! Just grab a can of spray insulation and start creating. Spray it onto an old cardboard box into your desired shapes. Paint the finished product in your theme colors and you’re done!
Ocean-themed balloons and garland
Balloons are an inexpensive and festive option for any party, and an under the sea party is no exception! Hanging colorful balloons in a fishing net is perfect. You can always attach some tropical fish, starfish, or crabs to the net, too. Professional balloon decorators can help with more elaborate creations like arches and sculptures.
If you don’t feel like blowing up a bunch of balloons, nets on their own with clinging sea creatures are just as cute! Try your local dollar shops for cute plastic sea animals and tropical fish. Or, make your own salt dough starfish garland. We love this idea and it doubles as a craft for the kiddos. Mix in some sand dollars to simplify the creation process and for some added dimension.
Jellyfish paper lanterns
Don’t forget the jellyfish! In the ocean, these sea creatures are known for their mesmerizing tentacles which make for perfect sea-themed party decor. You can purchase jellyfish paper lanterns online or at your local party store. Or, grab some supplies to make your own!
If you’re not the crafty type, leave it to the professional decorators on GigSalad to transform your venue into a magical world under the sea.
Under the Sea Party Food
Getting creative with your menu is one of the most fun parts of party planning! Suddenly a pretzel stick becomes a pirate’s peg leg (hey, that’s pretty good!) or a shortbread cookie turns into a seashell. Check out these fun food ideas for your under the sea party!
Edible algae
We may seem a little obsessed with seaweed, but it’s everywhere in the ocean so why not at your party too? Green sour straws arranged in a vase make an instant treat for your party guests. Healthier alternative: Put fresh green grapes onto several bamboo skewers!
Creature cupcakes
No party is complete without some type of cake! These octopus cupcakes are so adorable and look like they came from a local bakery instead of your own kitchen.
Creative cookies
Remember how we mentioned turning a cookie into a clamshell? Here’s proof of how cute it can be! All you need is some shortbread cookies, frosting, and pearl candy.
Good ol’ fashioned under the sea themed cookies are a definite winner. Use cookie cutters in simple seaworthy shapes and decorate in your theme colors! If your decorating skills aren’t the best, hire a professional catering company to create a customized candy or dessert buffet!
Savory snacks
We love sweets as much as the next partygoer, but you may want to have some savory options for your party guests as well. The obvious choice for an under the sea party is seafood, but not everyone likes that. These “crab” sandwiches are the perfect compromise! Add any filling that you like and they’re still on theme. Don’t forget the googly eyes!
Under the Sea Party Activities
Make sure your guests are entertained with fun activities. From live performers to photo booths to craft stations, there are lots of ways to keep people engaged and make your party unforgettable.
Magical mermaids
When you think “under the sea” you can’t help but think of The Little Mermaid. Bring the fantasy to life with your own live mermaid! If you’re throwing a pool party, professional mermaids can swim, lead party games, sing songs, and tell tales from the deep. No pool? No problem! They’re happy to perch on land, too.
Plundering pirates
If you’re looking to turn your party into a seafaring adventure, you can’t go wrong with pirate entertainment. Professional pirates can give sword fighting lessons, take the little ones on a treasure hunt, or lead a swashbuckling singalong!
Picture perfect
No party is complete without a way to capture the memories. Set up a designated photo area with a fun backdrop and silly props for selfies. Or, if it’s within your budget, hire a professional photo booth company. Their photos are often printed on the spot so your guests have a keepsake to take home with them!
Creative crafts
Get crafty at your under the sea party! One way to engage your guests is with a craft station. Purchase some unpainted treasure chests and set up a painting area to let your guests create their own party favor. Plastic jewels are a nice touch!
📍 Check out our Pinterest board for more great under the sea party ideas!
An under the sea theme is perfect for celebrations of all types – mermaid birthday parties, pirate parties, baby showers, and more. All it takes is some creative decorations, tasty foods, and fun entertainment and you’re all set. So let’s start planning!
Want to book some live entertainment for your Under the Sea party? Find something amazing at GigSalad.
Megan is the Director of Customer Experience at GigSalad and has gained 9+ years of insight on what makes a great event on both sides of the booking process. Her favorite things include books, true crime podcasts, coffee, hiking, puns, and making people laugh.
This is absolutely fantastic – so inspiring!