4 Tips to Make Gluten-free Beach Days a Breeze

Summer brings with it an irresistible temptation to hit the beach, soak up the sun, and indulge in refreshing treats. When living gluten-free, beach outings can present certain challenges as it can sometimes be hard to find suitable food options – but have no fear! With a little planning and some helpful tips, you can enjoy a fun-filled day at the beach while staying true to your gluten-free diet. Here are our 4 tips for making gluten-free beach days a breeze.

1.Pack your snacks:

Ensure you have safe and satisfying gluten-free options by packing an assortment of snacks. Consider preparing a variety of gluten-free treats such as vegetable sticks with hummus or gluten-free crackers with cheese. Delicious fresh fruits like watermelon, berries, and grapes are ideal because they are also hydrating snacks. Remember to bring a cooler with ice packs to keep perishable items fresh.

2. Bring a lunch:

Have a beach picnic with some refreshing, healthy options. Get creative with salads (like taco salad, Greek salad, or chicken salad) then pack them in individual servings to make a beach lunch effortless.  Do you prefer a sandwich or a wrap? Pair your favorite GFCO-certified bread, wrap, or roll with ham, turkey, or roast beef for a satisfying mid-day meal… pack a few napkins and try to keep the sand away! 

Don’t forget the cooler to keep meats and dairy products at safe temperatures, ice packs, and some refreshing beverages to stay hydrated and cool!

3. Research gluten-free options nearby:

If you’re heading to a popular beach town, research restaurants or cafes with gluten-free options beforehand. Check online review sites, and social media groups, or ask individuals for recommendations for safe dining spots.  If gluten-free menus are limited, opt for naturally gluten-free foods. Fresh seafood may be abundant, so say YES to that lobster or shrimp cocktail (just be sure to ask about the ingredients in that sauce)! As an alternative, choose a crisp salad (prepared with gluten-free dressing), or grilled chicken for a light and satisfying beach meal.

4. Seek out gluten-free alternatives on the boardwalk:

Boardwalks often offer an array of tempting treats, from ice cream stands to funnel cakes and giant slices of pizza. While many of these options may traditionally contain gluten, some boardwalk vendors are now catering to gluten-free diets. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and keep an eye out for stands that advertise gluten-free options. You might be pleasantly surprised to find gluten-free ice cream cones, gluten-free pizza, or even gluten-free versions of classic fried treats like French fries or onion rings. Don’t hesitate to ask the vendors about their gluten-free offerings and ask questions about shared fryers and other areas of cross-contact.  When in doubt, opt for a treat you know is safe, like a scoop of ice cream in a cup!

Don’t let a gluten-free diet stop you from enjoying summer beach days. You can have a memorable and worry-free gluten-free beach experience. With some careful planning and creativity, you can savor the sun, surf, and gluten-free eats. So, grab your sunscreen (bonus points if it is a GFCO-certified one), bring along your favorite beach chair, and get ready to enjoy a breezy beach day!