Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
A beach bonfire is more than just an outdoor gathering—it’s an experience that combines the inspiring beauty of the ocean with the warmth of a fire, the sound of waves, and the company of good friends. As the sun sinks and the evening chill sets in, the right food and drinks can elevate the event into an unforgettable occasion. Tasty and innovative culinary choices are essential to match the beach vibe, and they should be easy to prepare, shareable, and delicious. The options are endless, from a refreshing afternoon libation in the sun to comfort foods that warm you up as night falls. These coastal delights will ensure your beach bonfire success, so read on as we take you from a celebratory cocktail to a decadent dessert with a hot beverage by the fire.
Cranberry-Aperol Spritz
When the days still feel like summer, but the evening chill hints at fall, enjoy a festive, colorful cocktail that embraces all seasons. A refreshing and bubbly party starter, the Cranberry-Aperol Spritz has all the makings for a summer day that slips blissfully into a cool night on the beach. Super easy to make and fit for a crowd, this recipe combines Aperol, cranberry juice, orange juice, and Prosecco—all ingredients you can stir together in a pitcher. Serve in fancy or casual glasses and top with fresh cranberries, an orange slice, and a rosemary sprig. Visit Delish for the recipe.
Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp deliver a ubiquitous coastal choice for beachside dining. Tossed in a zesty citrus marinade with olive oil, these succulent beauties grill to perfection, either in a cast-iron grill pan or on bamboo skewers. Pair with a vibrant salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño for a blend of sweet and spicy flavor. Visit Emerils for a fruity skewer-style recipe with Mango Salsa, or check out Williams-Sonoma for a savory pan-style Lemony Grilled Chicken with Red Onions. Check out Solo Stove for bonfire cast-iron grill tops and hubs. And don’t forget to bring tortilla or pita chips, hummus, and other portable snack foods so there’s plenty of variety.
Grilled Lobster with Lemon-Chive Butter Sauce
For an authentic beach bonfire experience, fire-grilled lobsters are a must. No matter where you are, you can transport yourself to Maine with this delectable grilled lobster dish served with corn on the cob and rich, savory lemon-chive butter. The grill heat infuses the taste of the shell with the lobster meat, yielding a smoky caramelized flavor. Halve lobsters lengthwise and grill, shell sides down, with ears of corn drizzled in olive oil. Prepare the lemon-chive butter in a saucepan right on the grill and serve with lobsters on platters with lemon wedges and ears of corn. This delightfully decadent entrée takes on a casual vibe in a laidback beach setting, where fresh seafood tastes its best. For the recipe, visit Food & Wine.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This deliciously healthy quinoa salad brings some Mediterranean flair to your beach bonfire. A medley of roasted veggies, including zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, and tomatoes, mingle with fresh basil and mint in a vibrant olive oil, lemon, and garlic dressing. Tossed with cooked quinoa, this light yet filling dish perfectly complements the rich flavors of grilled seafood. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and pack for the beach. For the full recipe, visit Cookie + Kate.
Salted Caramel S’mores
S’mores are a classic beach bonfire dessert, but for a trendy twist, consider using artisanal marshmallows, gourmet chocolate, and specialty graham crackers. Flavors like salted caramel, dark chocolate raspberry, or even matcha can elevate this traditional treat. The fun of roasting marshmallows over the fire and assembling s’mores adds a nostalgic, interactive element everyone loves, while the upgraded ingredients make it feel new and exciting. This recipe calls for homemade graham crackers filled with roasted marshmallows and semi-sweet chocolate squares drizzled with salted caramel. Skip the kitchen torch if you like—your bonfire will do the work. Click here for the recipe.
Spiced & Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate
Bring the heat to your beach bonfire with this Spiced & Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate. Requiring just two ingredients, plus roasted marshmallows (if you have any left from your s’mores), you can make this soothing hot drink in a pot over the fire. Made with Ancho Reyes, a Mexican liqueur infused with Pueblo Chile and cinnamon spice, transform ordinary hot chocolate into an exuberant nightcap laced with sweet, spicy, and smoky notes. Use any kind of hot chocolate you prefer—instant, premade, or homemade—or prepare it ahead of time and bring it along in an insulated container. Serve in wide-mouthed mugs, add the liqueur, and top with roasted marshmallows. For an extra kick, toss the marshmallows in cinnamon before roasting if desired. Visit The Inspired Home for the recipe.
Encapsulating the essence of beach life—a beach bonfire brings simple pleasures, close connections, and a deep connection to nature. So whether yours is a casual gathering or a more elaborate affair, we hope these foods and drinks help create memories that last long after the fire has burned out.