“We’re thinking of having a barbeque on the beach.” Our clients say this often, whether it’s for a family reunion, wedding reception, birthday party or just a nice long day with friends to be topped off with a vacation portrait. It’s always a great idea here on an island where long days on the beach are common. And for those of you who just take sandwiches to a St. John beach every day on vacation – pay attention. These personally tested suggestions may just make your day!
- Feast On A Beach: How about an entire Thanksgiving style turkey dinner on the beach? We did it by cooking the turkey until ‘almost done, then steaming it the rest of the way in a huge pot at the beach. No pot? Cut a turkey into quarters (or smaller pieces) and cook the pieces on a grill at the beach. Assemble on a large platter before serving. Don’t forget the cranberries and stuffing! Lay down a big sheet or two and line up extra towels as a tablecloth. Cut some local flowers and put in an empty water bottle for a nice touch.
- Pizza Float: Perfect for a birthday party or other celebration, this one requires just two pool floats, placed one on top of the other to make a ‘table’ in the water that rises at least 3-4 inches above the water line. Bring pizza to the beach, or better yet – have it delivered (even on St. John!) and get into the water to enjoy. It’s a perfect way to enjoy birthday cake too. Skip the utensils and napkins – just dig in and have some fun with your food! This is one of our favorite evening (yes EVENING) activities with friends in summer months.
- Catered Luxury: We have so many wonderful caterers and private chefs on the island that it is worth considering for any group dining at the beach and surprisingly affordable. Barbeque ribs, classic fish fry, or even sushi – whatever your style. If you can’t decide, just call a caterer – they are full of fun suggestions and ideas for every price range. And yes, some offer lunch packages for just two people!
- French Fries & Rum Punch: Okay, this one is really cheating, but the opportunity to have French Fries and a Rum Punch on the sand at Trunk Bay is just too good to pass up without mentioning. You can have a classic backyard barbeque with hot dogs, hamburgers, fried chicken and salads too from the concession stand. Don’t forget the drinks, but watch out for the gulls – they can mischievous trying to get those French fries. 
Keep in mind that you may need an inexpensive permit to hold your larger event on a VI National Park beach or to reserve a covered barbeque space, so contact the Visitors Center for more information.
Some reminders: Don’t feed the gulls, the donkeys, or the mongoose . And never, ever bring glass of any kind to the beach, please. Use the recycle and trash bins provided and leave only your footprints in the sand. We like those.
We hope to see you soon on the beach and in the water. We’ll bring the drinks – you bring the turkey.
Bob and Karin Schlesinger
Your Island Photographers
