10 Ocean Themed Children's Books
- Antonisa Scott
- Jun 17
- 4 min read

These books are giving me all the cozy beach vibes—and I hope they do the same for you and your little ones! From magical mermaids and whales to krakens, butterflies, sharks, and snails, these ocean-themed children’s books are splashing in with whimsy, heartfelt stories, quirky illustrations, and meaningful messages. Whether you're poolside or beach-bound, these 10 Ocean-Themed Children's Books are so ready to make waves! . 🐚☀️🌊
(P.S. I may earn a small commission if you click any of the links!)
Let’s dive in! 🌊📚💫
Written and Illustrated by Katie Cottle
Ages: 3 – 6 years.
In this environmentally conscious ocean tale, the sea (aka The Blue Giant) asks for help to clean up its waters. With gorgeous illustrations and a message of teamwork, a little girl and her mom inspire a ripple effect of care and action.
Written by Dianna Hutts Aston
Illustrated by Renée Kurilla
Ages: 4 – 8 years.
Three mermaids sing a tender lullaby to the sea and all its creatures as they journey home to bed. It’s a beautifully illustrated, whimsical bedtime story that feels like an underwater hug for ocean-loving hearts.
Written and Illustrated Beatrice Blue
Ages: 4 – 7 years.
A boy who loves collecting sea creatures captures a mermaid—despite the ocean’s quiet warnings. With lush, magical illustrations, this powerful story teaches the importance of respect and letting nature be free.
Written and Illustrated by Julia Seal
Ages: 3 – 6 years.
This vibrantly illustrated story is inspired by real jellyfish blooms and tells of one jelly’s journey to speak up for her changing ocean home. A timely, moving tale about environmental awareness and the power of standing (or floating!) together.
Written by Brooke Hartman
Illustrated by Laura Borio
Ages: 3 – 6 years.
Klyde is a giant kraken with an even bigger heart—he just doesn’t realize how strong his hugs are! With playful, whimsical illustrations and a charming pirate girl, this one’s a cuddle-filled tale about self-awareness and friendship.
Written and Illustrated by Ross Burach
Ages: 5 – 7 years.
The Little Butterfly That Could
A quirky little butterfly doesn’t think he can cross the ocean—until a wise whale friend helps him believe in himself. This fun, giggle-worthy read is full of charming illustrations, excuses, and a big splash of courage! (P.S. It’s the second in the series—link to the first book 👉 here!)
Written and Illustrated by Dorien Brouwers
Ages: 4 – 8 years.
This lyrical, poetic ocean-themed children's book is a metaphor-rich voyage full of heart and imagination. With breathtaking illustrations, Sail encourages kids to dream big and embrace the wonder of their journey.
Written by Julia Donaldson
Illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Ages: 2 – 4 years.
This rhyming ocean-themed children's book is of an unlikely friendship between a small snail and a mighty whale is heartfelt. With adventure, teamwork, and a twist of fate, it’s a cozy illustrated classic that’ll make you want to pack your bags and explore the sea.
Written and Illustrated by Molly Idle
Ages: 3 – 7 years.
This cozy and magical ocean-themed children’s book follows a sweet mermaid named Pearl, who’s tasked with protecting a tiny grain of sand. With dreamy, soft illustrations and a heartfelt message, it’s a whimsical reminder that even the smallest things can hold big meaning.
Written Joan Holub
Illustrated by Laurie Keller
Ages: 4 – 8 years.
A confident (yet curious) shark sets out to figure out what makes him special and ends up learning what makes all sharks amazing. With fun, textured illustrations, and a comic book flair, this ocean-themed children's book is packed with facts, laughs, and underwater swagger.
I hope you loved this 10 Ocean-Themed Children's Book list as much as I did!
❤️🌊
Cheers,
Antonisa from Transcend Studio 🏔️🧝♀️
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