From lunch picnics to star-lit dinners, planning and decorating a beach setup can turn a simple shore trip into a memorable occasion. The best ones mix style, fun, and comfort to fit the owner or guest’s mood.
Here’s how yacht crew can plan a beach setup that leaves a mark.
Pick a Theme or Concept
Start with a theme. Use what you see – the yacht’s surrounding, the time of year, or local culture – as inspiration. Set the scene with table linens, crockery, and unbreakable glassware.
Of course, the inspiration can continue on board with beach club areas allowing guests to enjoy being close to the sea while dining or relaxing in style. Boat International’s article “The aft party: The best superyacht beach clubs in the world’ shows great picks from Grecian-inspired beach clubs to classic nautical lounges and how yacht design and yacht interior styling combine.
Dine in Style: From Beach BBQs to Star-lit Feasts
Food is at the heart of a great beach setup. The chef might prep a fresh BBQ with fish, grilled vegetables, or gourmet finger food. Picture soft taupe or sand-coloured table linens, hints of wood and shells for relaxed beach picnics. Want a “Tropical Escape” table setting? Use Kim Seybert bamboo placemats with cut-out detailing that creates texture, palm leaves, Joanna Buchanan Tortoiseshell crab-themed napkin rings and tropical drinks served in Marioluca Giusti acrylic glassware. These pieces should be just enough to stand out without overpowering the laid-back vibe.
For a luxe look, create a white-on-white look with Kim Seybert napkins, comfy cushions, sleek glassware and small florals in low vases. For bold nights, add fairy lights, or hurricane lamps and tiki torches that give off a soft, warm glow and help keep bugs at bay.
Brea Walsh suggests high-quality items that don’t compromise on style, “The Abyss & Habidecor Super Pile or Portofino towels and the Croisiere towel by Yves Delorme are soft, durable towels that are great for beach setups. They can be readily stored in luxury towel baskets made by Pinetti or Giobagnara. Keep La Rosée, Lancaster, and Sisley suncreams handy in utility storage baskets.”
Beach days are great for games and down time. For kids, use low tables with bright fabrics and monogrammed beach bags. For adults, try luxury games from Giobagnara or Robbe & Berking and keep a few Assouline travel books on hand for a quiet moment.
3 Quick Tips for Interior Crew
- Plan & Pack Smart: Use a checklist with items such as serving trays, barware, furniture, towels, storage baskets. Label equipment by use (beach bar, table, lights).
- Pick The Right Equipment: Beach setups often have a more relaxed and informal approach, however don’t overlook logistics. Go for light but strong tables and seating, and soft mats that won’t sink in sand. Use beach cabanas or shade sails to help keep guests cool and relaxed. Add decorative touches with wooden trays or chic coolers to chill drinks. Check décor and furniture are weatherproof and firmly fixed to avoid movement. Keep a backup torch or light.
- Style with Care: Match fabrics and décor to your theme. Items like fairy lights or a table centrepiece such as driftwood or a coral sculpture can add that wow touch.
Planning and decorating a beach setup
Planning and decorating a beach setup is more than just gear – it’s the mood you build. With good planning a beach setup can feel like a five-star spot by the sea. And best of all? Our YC Interiors team has lots of ideas to save time and give suggestions that match what you need.