How to Create the Perfect Beach Picnic Setup

There’s something undeniably magical about a beach picnic. The sun on your skin, the sound of the waves, and a feast laid out on the sand – it’s the ultimate blend of chill and celebration. Whether it’s a solo unwind, a romantic sunset date, or a day out with your crew, creating the perfect setup takes more than just a few snacks and a towel.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan a next-level beach picnic that’s comfy, stylish, and practical – with tips that go beyond soggy sandwiches and sandy chips. From choosing the right sand free beach towel to packing smart, this is how to do it like a pro.

Step 1: Choose the Right Beach Spot

Not all beaches are created equal – and not every one is ideal for a picnic. You want somewhere:

• Flat and sheltered from the wind

• Close to facilities (like bathrooms or parking)

• With a bit of shade, if possible

• Not too crowded, so you have space to spread out

If you’re on the Gold Coast, Burleigh Hill, Tallebudgera, or the quieter end of Mermaid Beach are dreamy picnic spots. For Euro summer vibes, think: Milos (Greece), Formentera (Spain), or hidden calas in Mallorca.

Step 2: Pack the Essentials

Let’s talk gear. The goal is to keep things light but luxe – like you’re that girl who always has exactly what’s needed.

1. Sand Free Beach Towel or Blanket

This is your base. Traditional towels trap sand and stay damp, which makes for a messy setup. A sand free beach towel or large microfibre towel is the better move – soft, lightweight, quick to dry, and easy to shake clean.

→ Check out our oversized sand free beach towels perfect for picnics

 

If it’s a group picnic, layer a few side by side or bring a fitted sheet with the corners weighed down by your bags for a DIY sand barrier.

2. Cushions or Inflatable Pillows

Optional, but trust us – this takes your beach picnic from basic to boujee. A few floor cushions or a compact blow-up pillow adds comfort and gives you something to lean on while you snack and sip.

3. Cooler Tote or Insulated Bag

No one wants warm fruit or melted cheese. Use a small cooler or insulated beach tote to keep drinks cold and food fresh. Bonus points if it fits easily into your beach setup and doesn’t take up half the towel.

Tip: Freeze your water bottles the night before – they’ll double as ice blocks and stay cold longer.

4. Reusable Plates, Cups, and Cutlery

Ditch the plastic. Reusable picnic sets are better for the planet and way more Instagrammable. Bamboo plates, enamel cups, or collapsible silicone containers keep it light and stylish.

5. Rubbish Bag

Always pack a spare bag to collect your trash (and maybe some you find around). Beaches stay beautiful when we leave no trace.

Step 3: Curate the Perfect Beach Menu

You want food that’s easy to transport, doesn’t need heating, and can handle a bit of sand or sun without drama.

Here are a few no-fail ideas:

• Fresh baguette or flatbread

• Cheese and cold meats

• Hummus, guac, or dips

• Cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, or baby carrots

• Cold pasta salad or couscous

• Grapes, watermelon, or dried fruit

• Brownies, bliss balls, or chocolate (stored in the cooler)

• Sparkling water, juice, wine, or spritz (if allowed)

Don’t forget a little chopping board and knife if you’re going full foodie – and napkins or wet wipes for clean-up.

Step 4: Think About Shade

If your chosen spot has no natural shade, consider packing:

• A beach umbrella

• A pop-up sunshade

• A light sarong or linen shirt to drape over yourself

Even better? Set up your beach picnic later in the day, around 3–4pm. The sun is less harsh, the crowd thins out, and you’ll be perfectly positioned for golden hour.

Step 5: Add the Vibes

Now for the fun part – the extras that take your picnic from practical to perfect.

Music

A mini waterproof speaker is ideal. Keep the volume respectful (no one loves a beach DJ) but let your playlist set the mood. Think: acoustic, chill house, or whatever feels like sunshine in song form.

Games

Beach cricket, cards, a travel-size Connect Four, or even just a frisbee can add fun without needing much space.

Candles or Fairy Lights

If you're staying till sunset, a string of fairy lights or LED candles add serious magic. Pop them in a jar or around your setup to keep the vibe going after dark.

Book or Journal

For solo beach days, don’t forget something to read or reflect with. A journal, a novel, or even sketching tools are great beach companions.

Step 6: What to Wear (and Bring Extra of)

Picnics often turn into swims, naps, or golden hour strolls – so be prepared.

Wear:

• A breathable swimsuit

• Linen shorts or a wrap skirt

• A wide-brim hat and sunglasses

• Slides or barefoot if close to the car

Bring:

• A spare microfibre towel in case you swim

• SPF and lip balm

• A light shirt or sarong for cover

• Hair ties or a clip

Your travel towel will double up as a blanket, towel, and even makeshift shade or pillow if needed.

→ Explore our microfibre travel towels made for spontaneous beach days

Step 7: Don’t Forget the Details

These might sound small, but they make a big difference:

• Wet bag for swimmers or used towels

• Hand sanitiser or wipes

• Bug spray, especially if you’re staying for sunset

• Hairbrush, mini mirror, or SPF top-up if you’re heading to dinner after

Bonus: stash valuables in the zip pocket of your beach towel so they’re safe while you dip.

The Best Towels for Beach Picnics

Not all towels are made equal – especially when you’re laying out snacks, using it as a seat, or drying off after a swim.

Why Nomadique sand free beach towels are made for the moment:

• Made from premium microfibre towel fabric that’s soft and absorbent

• Sand-resistant – shake it out and it’s clean

• Lightweight and compact – easy to carry in your tote or backpack

• Quick-dry – no wet mess in your bag

• Hidden zip pocket – stash your phone or keys safely

You can even roll it up and use it as a pillow post-picnic nap. Win.

Easy Picnic Ideas for Different Moods

Solo Vibes

• Pack a journal, your travel towel, a cold drink, and something good to read

• Use a backpack instead of a bulky basket

• Keep it light and low-fuss – think bento box style

Romantic Sunset Picnic

• Add fairy lights, strawberries, and a small bottle of bubbles

• Bring two beach towels and layer them with cushions

• Share a dessert or snack board, and play soft music

Group Day Out

• Bring extra towels or a picnic rug

• Share food potluck-style

• Pack a speaker, games, and maybe even a frisbee

• Don’t forget a group pic before the sun sets

Beach Picnic Etiquette

Let’s keep the good vibes going for everyone:

• Clean up completely – even the watermelon seeds

• Don’t blast music (no one wants beach techno)

• Keep dogs on leads if required

• Avoid smoking near other people’s setups

• Share your extra snacks or sunscreen – it’s good karma

Final Thoughts

A beach picnic is more than just food on sand – it’s a moment. Whether it’s quiet and solo or full of laughter and clinking glasses, it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

With the right setup – a sand free beach towel, some tasty bites, good company, and a view – you’ve got everything you need. And remember, it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A little planning goes a long way.

So next time the sun’s out and your towel’s packed, make it a beach picnic to remember.