Planning Your Sunset Beach Picnic

Whether it’s a romantic sunset beach date or a full-family hangout, a picnic at sunset is the perfect way to get some bonding time. And what better place to spread your blanket than on the sugar-white sand of South Walton?

Your Beach Picnic Packing List

What do you need for a picnic? To get your sunset picnic planning started, here’s a quick cheat sheet of some items to remember when prepping:

• Large blanket
• Trays or a cutting board for food prep and presentation
• Cooler with plenty of ice
• Cups or tumblers with lids (no glass)
• Serving utensils
• Resealable food containers

Leave No Trace

To help keep our beaches clean and beautiful for generations to come, remember to “Leave No Trace” after your picnic.

Protecting the environment is easy when you follow these simple guidelines:

• No glass. Glass containers are strictly prohibited on all beaches.
• Alcohol for adults only. Alcohol is allowed for adults of legal age, but all drinks must be in cans or plastic. However, remember that alcohol is not allowed in state parks.
• No charcoal grills. Charcoal fires/grills are not permitted on the beach. Propane grills are allowed as long as they are small and compact.
• Leave No Trace. Nothing can be left on the beach overnight, so be sure to take all picnic items, trash, chairs, and coolers with you when you go.
• No littering. Use designated trash bins for food waste, and refrain from disposing of grill remnants in county trash cans.

Where to Buy Picnic Basket Essentials

Wondering what to pack for a picnic? From beach picnic food ideas to our favorite charcuterie catering companies, we’re highlighting local businesses that make planning your 30A beach picnic a breeze.

Wine and Dine

Want to add a special toast to the occasion? Bring along some lively libations from a South Walton food and wine store like Shunk Gulley or Cork & Barrel. Just remember to bring plastic cups since glass is prohibited on the beach! Grab a beach-approved wine kit from the South Walton Visitor Center, complete with a wine opener, wine tumbler, and two plastic wine glasses in a small South Walton tote.

Build Your Own Beach Picnic Charcuterie Board

When you’re looking for something to pair with your vino, swing by a local grocery and make your own charcuterie board! 30A Olive Oil Co. in Inlet Beach has an amazing selection of gourmet foods, charcuterie, jams, and other beach picnic essentials. Chan’s Wine World in WaterColor has a delicious cheese shop where you can pick up familiar favorites or try some unique finds. And for a few more gourmet side options, check out Destin Ice Market 30A. Just don’t forget the craft beer!

Stress-Free Catering

For a simple beach picnic set up, take all the guesswork out of the equation by getting in touch with local catering companies like CC. Boone, Blue Magnolia Catering Co., or Fresco Picnic Co.. These local companies offer delicious “grazing boards” that double as beautiful works of edible art for a true luxury picnic setup. If you want to dial it up a notch, they even offer delivery, set-up, and take-down of full-scale picnics on the beach. All you have to do is show up and enjoy!

Ready for the main course? Countless local restaurants can help take your beach picnic to the next level with shareable dishes that you can carry out and bring right to the beach blanket. We're big fans of Chiringo's fresh-made options like lobster rolls, fish tacos, and snapper dip with homemade chips.

Book Your Visit Today!

Now that you know the best beach foods to pack, the only other decision you have to make is when to visit. While our beaches are beautiful year-round, keep in mind that some of the most spectacular South Walton sunsets occur in the fall. 

So pick your spot, collect your supplies, and spread out your blanket for an unforgettable evening. Just remember to leave no trace when you’re done!

Need help planning your trip? Ask Seemore, your personal AI travel assistant, for tailored recommendations.