What to bring to the beach: Ideas and tips
Imagine your perfect day by the sea. Whatever vision comes to mind will help you decide what essentials to pack for the beach, ensuring your experience is both idyllic and unforgettable. Maybe you enjoy getting lost in a good book and taking long strolls by the shore. Or perhaps you’re counting down the days to dive into your favorite water sports. Dreaming of lounging in a hammock with a cocktail in hand? For some, the ideal escape is all about savoring local dishes on a food tour and toasting to good times. Whether it's ideas for food to bring to the beach, or how to make your beach trip more sustainable, these suggestions are sure to make your days at the beach truly memorable.
What to bring to the beach
Wondering how you can help protect coastal ecosystems like Posidonia oceanica while enjoying your day at the beach? Start by ditching single-use plastics in favor of reusable or refillable items. Stainless steel water bottles, which keep your drinks cool, or glass containers are great eco-friendly alternatives. To complete your zero-waste kit, pack biodegradable cutlery, plates, and cups, along with cloth napkins and reusable bags.
Another key item to bring is mineral sunscreen, free from toxic chemicals and nanoparticles, which are kinder to the ocean and your skin. For kids, opt for high SPF or total protection sunblock to protect their delicate skin. Don’t forget their favorite toys, books, and beach essentials like buckets and spades for fun in the sand. If you’re traveling with a baby, make sure they’re well-covered with a hat, sunglasses, and a T-shirt during the hottest hours.
As for beach-friendly snacks, we have some quick and healthy ideas that the whole family will enjoy. Now all that’s left is to choose your beach outfit and start planning the perfect day from your beachfront hotel.
What food to bring to the beach
Lay out a big blanket or tablecloth for lunch or while you soak in the sunset from your favorite spot on the beach. If you're with your partner, why not set up a romantic picnic to watch the sun dip below the horizon? Golden hour is also a wonderful moment to share with family and friends. If you’re eating lunch, try to find a shady spot — maybe under a palm tree or a tall pine (just be sure it’s an area where you can set down your towel). Opt for a sustainable picnic and delight your loved ones with these tasty, beach-ready snacks.
Layered salads in glass jars
Layered salads in glass jars, made by you, are a natural (and very aesthetic) alternative to store-bought options. The trick to keeping them fresh is to place the sturdier ingredients at the bottom and the more delicate ones on top. For example: quinoa, chickpeas, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, corn, and spinach. Or try pasta, chicken breast (or tofu/tempeh for a vegan version), mushrooms, black olives, and basil. You could also go for brown rice, lentils, diced cucumber, bell pepper, tomato, feta cheese, and sprouts. The combinations are endless! Bring the dressing separately and mix well before serving.
Cold soups: beyond store-bought gazpacho
Wondering what food to bring to the beach this summer? Start with a refreshing homemade gazpacho made with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients like ripe tomatoes and top-quality extra virgin olive oil. If you’re in the mood for something different, try ajoblanco, homemade salmorejo, vichyssoise, or a chilled melon and cucumber soup with mint. For the melon-cucumber soup, you’ll need just a few ingredients: melon, cucumber, cream (or swap it for coconut milk or Greek yogurt), fresh mint leaves, and a pinch of salt. Easy and delicious, right?
Sandwiches and wraps with a twist
If you’d rather skip utensils and need ideas for beach-friendly food, go for classic sandwiches and wraps — but with a twist. Try combos like pear, gorgonzola, and walnuts drizzled with a lime vinaigrette on seed bread; avocado, hummus, beetroot, Batavia lettuce, and sun-dried tomatoes on rye; tuna with kimchi mayo on soft white bread; or marinated mushroom “steaks” topped with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and mustard sauce on ciabatta. The traditional Portuguese bifana, filled with marinated pork chops, is a delicious choice for meat lovers. Instead of using foil or plastic wrap, opt for silicone bags or wrap your sandwiches in cloth napkins for an eco-friendly touch.
Savory pies and a winning recipe
Here are a few tasty ideas for savory pies that are perfect cold and packed with flavor: a spinach and goat cheese puff pastry tart, an empanada stuffed with homemade ratatouille and hard-boiled egg, or a green pie made with asparagus, zucchini, and peas seasoned with Mediterranean herbs like fennel and rosemary. You could also go for a classic quiche Lorraine, featuring bacon, Emmental cheese, and a rich, creamy custard. These flavorful dishes are easy to pack and make excellent choices for a delicious beach picnic.
