Take it Out (To the Beach)
When you are visiting the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches the last thing you want to do is leave to go get food. So why not take it out to the beach?
A picnic on the beach can be a low-fuss dinner option to make everyone happy. Whether you want to pick up prepared food or make your own entrée, you really can’t go wrong. Below are items you may need and where you can purchase them.
Food
Of course the most important part of a picnic is the food! There are several local spots that offer to-go meals that are perfect for the beach. Check out Amelia’s Deli for healthy soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Sarah’s Homemade serves casseroles that are perfect for the whole family. Picnic Beach offers fresh, clean ingredients, from premium smoked BBQ to healthy green drinks and organic cocktails. Explore the Fort Morgan Road area and venture to The Village Lawn and enjoy great food from one of four vintage food trucks, drinks from The Chill or ice cream from The Village Creamery. Looking for a variety of food to suit everyone in the family? Stop by the Wharf where there are multiple options such as STK Burger or Blue Water BBQ Company.
A large towel or beach mat
Nobody wants to get sand in their food so be sure to have a large towel or blanket to sit on. The following local shops are sure to carry just what you need to keep your food (and behind) sand-free: Souvenir City of Gulf Shores, Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs, and Ocean Eddie's Resort Wear at the Wharf.
A basket
This is a given, but you will need something to make carrying all of your food easier. You can find a basket at Academy Sports and Outdoors, Bungalows at The Wharf, or Target.
Dinnerware
Whether you are looking for fine dining dinnerware or plastic plates and cups, there are multiple locals shops that fit the bill. We recommend trying these shops: The Happy Olive, St Charles Place, A Specialty Bakery & Party Shoppe or Bed, Bath and Beyond.
Items for cleanup
Last but, not least, items for the cleanup process — resealable bags or reusable containers for leftovers, and separate bags for trash and recyclables. You can find these items at Walmart, Waves Grocery & Package Store or Bed Bath and Beyond.
Now you are picnic-ready!
