I know the summer is almost over, but if you’re planning a quick get away for the holiday try some of my beach picnic ideas.
I like to take an insulated cooler like the one below. It holds a ton so you can just sit back on the beach and relax with everything you need close by.
This is a shot of the inside of the cooler. As you can see it’s more than enough room to pack lots of snacks for a long day of relaxation. On my last trip I packed salad and fresh veggies, fruit, dip, homemade stuffed bread sticks, wine, champagne, juice, and water.
Black eyed pea salad over mixed greens
Stuffed bread sticks
The bread sticks are super easy to make. I used some leftover pizza dough and rolled it out into a rectangle. Sprinkle with mozzarella and pepperoni. Fold the dough over three times to make a smaller rectangle similar to a loaf of bread. Sprinkle the top with parmesan and bake on a pizza stone or cookie sheet until golden brown.
FOOD IDEAS
When thinking of food, you want to pack something that will taste well at room temperature and also something that does not need immediate refrigeration. Sandwiches are always a great idea. I made a variety and wrapped them in wax paper for a previous beach trip. Pretzels like these stuffed with ham and Gruyère are also a great idea. Dips are a no brainer, just g for what you like. One of my favorites is roasted garlic white bean dip. I usually don’t take dessert, but cookies and brownies sound good to me!
Caprese, ham and swiss, and turkey special all on ciabatta
DRINKS
When your lounging on the beach you must have a cocktail. For no fuss, pack tetra packs and splits of wine or champagne. For mixed cocktail, transport them in plastic beverage containers with an ice tube that can be frozen the night before your trip. My favorite beach cocktail is definitely sangria. Try the this white sangria perfumed with elderflower liquor.
UTENSILS
Make sure you are equipped with plates, cutlery, napkins, and cups. I opt for plastic and paper so you don’t have to worry about anything breaking. If you want to be extra fancy try a set of Govino glasses which are available in a variety of sizes for wine, champagne, and cocktails.
Candice Birdsong 
Nice