Quick Tips for a Perfect Beach Picnic

What’s better than sand and surf on a summer Sunday? Not very much, if you ask us. To enjoy a healthy day at the beach, you need a little prep—and lots of sunscreen. Some tips to stock your cooler for the perfect beach picnic:

Focus on finger foods. No one wants to deal with utensils and plates in the sand. Instead, just stuff sandwiches with grilled chicken or turkey and vegetables, and cut them in half so they’re easier to eat. Whole wheat wraps or pitas hold up better than sliced bread, which might get soggy. Single-serve packs of hummus or guacamole, with pre-sliced peppers, celery sticks, baby carrots or cherry tomatoes are also a great option.

Baggie your snacks. Leave the big box or container at home, and just bring pre-portioned bags of your good-for-you munchies, such as light popcorn, wasabi peas, raw nuts, or trail mix.

Make room for fruit. The juicer the better, like pre-washed seedless purple grapes, peaches, pears and plums. Chunks of watermelon are especially refreshing (and hydrating!). And if you’re wanting something cold from the beachside vendor, opt for the fruit Popsicle and skip the ice cream.

Over-pack water. Pre-freeze a few large bottles so you have icy water all day (a plus: they double as extra ice packs for your cooler); then bring smaller bottles or Thermoses filled with water, ice and lemon or mint for a little flavor. If you crave fizzy, try calorie-free sparkling water. And don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink; take swigs throughout the day so you stay well-hydrated.