Environment

• Beach parties are mostly held in open spaces such as a patio or garden to allow for tiki torches to be set up. Exotic flowers also add color and energy to the venue, and a bonfire adds warmth and intensity. Be sure to plan the party in the summer or on an afternoon when the sun will be up, because weather is a big component of a beach-themed party. Summer music should accompany the decorations.
  
  

Table

• The mood during the meal is also important in a beach party, because it's the main event when guests gather. Bamboo place mats are used, as well as paper plates with shell designs. Candlelight is an important component of an indoor beach party, and it makes for an intimate gathering. Beach chairs and towels also complement the other decorations.
  
  

Attire

• What your guests wear is important to the atmosphere of the party. Floral dresses and Hawaiian shirts are common. Guests wear flip flops, and sometimes ladies can add a flower behind their ear as an accessory. Bathing suits can be worn with a cover-up. Straw hats can also be an additional accessory if the party is outdoors.
  
  

Menu

• Champagne on beach, royalty-free image by Filou
  
  Beach party drinks to go with the ambiance include margaritas and daiquiris. Small paper umbrellas can accompany these. Cocktail charms can be beach-inspired to add to the tropical drinks, as well as cut fruit to add flavor. Appetizers and entrees should be light and can be eaten with hands.
  
  

Favors

• Shell, royalty-free image by paulgeor
  
  Seashells can be used as party favors for your guests to remember the event. If it's a birthday, the celebrant's name and birthday should be written on the shell. Mini surfboard key chains or cocktail glasses can also be used as party favors for guests to bring home and use.