Onion Glass Lights: Coastal and Cottage Lighting Ideas with Sources

Onion lights cape cod style lighting — *Cafe Design*

Onion lights, named for their rounded, bulbous shape, were originally used on whaling ships and fishing boats. Today they’re a classic choice for coastal and seaside homes—think Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Pacific Northwest beach cottages. They add a timeless nautical charm and work beautifully flanking doors, above porches, or along entryways.

I’ve loved onion lights for years. We had them at our family beach house near Cannon Beach, Oregon, and we’re installing a pair on either side of the new French doors at our island home in Washington.

High-quality, handmade onion lights can be pricey, but there are plenty of attractive, budget-friendly options that capture the look. With a careful selection—glass texture, finish, and mounting style—you can achieve an authentic coastal feel without overspending.

Below are a variety of onion light options at different price points, plus inspiration photos to help you imagine the look at your home.

Onion lights -- cape cod style lighting sources

Selected sources and styles

1. Onion lights — the pair I ordered for our house.
2. White onion-style exterior light for a clean, bright look.
3. Seeded glass onion light for a vintage, textured glow.
4. Black finish onion light for a bold, classic contrast.
5. Copper onion light that patinas beautifully over time.
6. Black lantern-style onion light with traditional details.
7. Oil-rubbed bronze onion light for warm, aged character.
8. Matte black onion light—sleek and modern while staying coastal.
9. Hanging onion light for porches or covered entryways.

Onion lights coastal home sources — *Our old family beach house on the Oregon Coast*

Onion lights coastal home interior — *Coastal cottage interior details*

Onion lights beach home — *Seabrook visit—inspiration for beach-house curb appeal*

Onion lights coastal home style lighting — *BHG-style exterior lantern inspiration*

Onion lights coastal home exterior lighting sources — *Cafe Design-inspired garden lighting*

See exterior lighting options in my Amazon shop

Tips for choosing onion lights

Consider glass type: seeded or blown glass gives a more authentic, old-world glow; clear glass feels brighter and cleaner.
Match the finish to your home’s hardware—matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, and aged copper are versatile coastal choices.
Scale matters: choose fixtures proportionate to your door or porch. Larger bulbs suit wide entries; smaller versions work well along walkways.
Mounting style: wall-mounted lights flanking doors are classic; hanging versions add charm to covered porches and pergolas.
Bulb selection: warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) enhance the cozy, nautical ambiance.

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