- November 9, 2025
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Ah, the timeless allure of a picnic. From sandy shores to shaded parks, our area’s keys offer picture-perfect spots to spread a blanket, uncork a bottle and savor the moment.
It’s a blissful dream — but turning it into reality is no picnic. Creating your al fresco feast means smart shopping, hard work and heavy lifting — and a bit of sweat equity (especially if you’re hauling a heavy basket across hot sand).
But no sweat. We tapped the expertise of three helpful picnic pros: Miranda Schlake of Siesta Summer, Reni Papalexiou of Sun Served Bespoke Picnics and Kierstin Papillon of Posh Picnic Co. They happily shared their top tips for DIY picnic champs. (And if you’d rather skip the hassle, they’re just a phone call away).
Miranda Schlake has a sunny disposition and a knack for meticulous planning. A laid-back perfectionist? Absolutely. As the proprietor of Siesta Summer, that duality comes in handy. Her beach picnics are delicious dramas but never fussy. Mother Nature’s shorelines are her stage.
Origin story. “I’ve always loved creating beautiful experiences. After one friend suggested event planning, I looked into various events I might provide. These gorgeous beach picnics kept popping up on Instagram. I thought, ‘That’s so my style.’ So, just for fun, I planned a Halloween picnic with my friends. I loved the creative challenge — and they loved the results. Work that gave me joy had brought joy to others! That realization was my ‘a-ha’ moment. Siesta Summer took off from there.”
The pursuit of picnic perfection. “It’s all about serving each client’s vision. What’s their idea of a perfect picnic? A perfect picnic should reflect their personalities and be a memory they’ll cherish forever. I want to make them feel like celebrities for the day.”
The right time for a beach picnic. “Sunset is the obvious choice; it’s quieter, cooler and the lighting is beautiful. But I also love morning picnics. You’ll beat the crowds to the beach and claim your space. It’s a very peaceful feeling. A brunch picnic is such a relaxing way to start the day — and you’re done before the heat kicks in.”
Don’t forget. “The weight you’ll have to carry. Lugging tons of stuff out to the beach is hard! People imagine a beach picnic and think, “I can do that.” Then they’ll make a list — and keep adding to it. Just one more thing, just one more. Each item adds more weight to carry. Don’t underestimate how physically demanding that’ll be. You might be too tired to enjoy the picnic. That’s where we come in. We’ll do the heavy lifting for you.”
If You Go: 564-0766; SiestaSummer.com.
Reni Papalexiou is the founder and creative director of Sun Served Bespoke Picnics. After a 14-year career in design and architecture, she focused on creating magical al fresca experiences. Papalexiou’s eye for detail is the secret of her magic. As Nietzsche once said, “God is in the details.” She couldn’t agree more.
The pursuit of picnic perfection means designing for the theme of each event. “A picnic might revolve around an anniversary, a birthday, a micro-wedding or a proposal. Each is a different experience, emotionally. We keep that in mind and tailor every setup with specific intention. We’ll set the right mood with fresh flowers on the table or a custom playlist or a live serenade. There are no small details. Every element contributes to creating a sense memory.”
Don’t forget the flow. “That’s something people tend to overlook. Planning a picnic isn’t just about making a shopping list, placing tables and calling it a day. You need to think about how guests will move through the space, where the light will hit, how to keep the drinks cold and where the sun and wind will be. Those details transform a picnic from ordinary to unforgettable.”
Most outside-the-box request. “One client wanted to create a stealth marriage proposal. He planned it all out like ‘Mission Impossible.’ He would invite his partner to a sunset picnic on the beach and then catch her by surprise and pop the question. He gave us his concept. We set up the picnic and it all went according to plan. She was totally surprised and thrilled — and she said ‘yes.’”
Most magical childhood picnic. “When I was about 7, we had an amazing beach picnic on a family trio to Rio. Nothing fancy. It was just snacks, laughter, the breeze and the sun reflecting off the sand. When the sun got too intense, my dad propped up a little beach canopy with sticks and a cotton sarong — a sunshade tent for me and my sister. That special memory taught me that picnic magic doesn’t require much. Just intention, a beautiful setting, and the people you love.”
If You Go: 609-947-5237; SunServed.com.
Kierstin Papillon loves creating seaside picnics. Roughing it isn’t her style. She brings a touch of elegance to her sun-kissed spreads. Papillon sets her picnic tables with gourmet bites, swank décor and unforgettable moments. Her luxe creations feel effortless, but that’s thanks to her hard work. That’s Papillon’s style.
Origin story. “After seven years as a NICU nurse, I was ready for a change. I’d always loved planning extravagant affairs, and with my husband’s support, I turned that passion into a career. After one very tough day at the hospital, I took the leap and Posh Picnic was born.”
The pursuit of picnic perfection means giving clients more than they expect. “Other businesses offer similar services; our attention to detail sets us apart. I’m particular about everything, even the smallest touches. People are paying for an experience. They deserve not just what they imagined, but something a little better —something they’ll truly remember.”
Don’t forget. Check out the weather right before you go. The forecast might have been sunny skies when you woke up, but it could be pouring by the time you’re driving to the beach. This is Florida, and Mother Nature has her mood swings.”
If You Go: 775-741-2727; PoshPicniks.com
Need last-minute picnic food, drinks or gear? No worries. These friendly island merchants have you covered.
Publix Super Market at Shoppes of Bay Isles makes picnic prep effortless. Order ahead and you’ll find Boar’s Head baskets brimming with savory, sweet and salty treats — like the Taste of Italy charcuterie box, filled with prosciutto, salami, cheeses, olives, walnuts, grapes, wild honey and fresh rosemary. It’s everything you need for a hearty, Italian-style picnic. Publix.com/Locations/1432-Shoppes-of-Bay-isles
Harry’s Gourmet Deli is picnic gold. Build your basket with freshly made sandwiches, side salads, something sweet for later and then top it off with a bottle of wine or bubbly from the deli’s expertly curated wine selection. Who knew Longboat Key’s secret to a five-star picnic could be this easy? HarrysKitchen.com
Ace Hardware has a well-stocked array of inedible picnic gear, including Yeti coolers, outdoor rugs, portable grills, beach chairs, you name it. LongboatAce.com.
Ancient Olive Gourmet Store offers oils, olives, breads and spreadables — Mediterranean flavors that are vibrant and rooted in tradition. For picnic packing, try the artichoke, caper and sundried tomato spreads, or Harrison’s Tait fig and olive relish — each a perfect partner for crusty bread. TheAncientOlive.com
A stop at Le Macaron adds a heavenly sweet note — delicate, colorful macarons tucked into a box to go. A little Parisian indulgence this side of the Gulf. LeMacaron-US.com
Speaking of sweets, Ephesus Mediterranean Delights offers trays of baklava and Turkish delights in a rainbow of flavors, including pistachio, walnut, chocolate and almond. These jewel-like treats travel beautifully from shop to shoreline.
Morton’s Siesta Market brings the grocery concierge to you. Order ahead for deli salads, prepared meals, cheese, charcuterie, fresh bread and wine. It’s picnic planning made indulgently effortless. MortonsMarket.com/Siesta-Market.
Crescent Beach Market This reliable neighborhood grocery offers essential food items and supplies. It also makes picnics easy with its “Shark Boards” — custom charcuterie spreads crafted to order with cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit and more. Place your order 48 hours in advance and head to the beach, boat or backyard with a board that feels both effortless and elegant. CrescentBeachMarket.com.
Want to create your own beach picnic without professional help? Start by deciding where. Your options stretch for miles. (Fear not: We’ve narrowed them down.)
Your picnic at Joan M. Durante Park will be a retreat into nature, with canopied picnic areas, winding trails, a playground, native gardens and sweeping views of Sarasota Bay.
Whitney Beach is a rare public gem at Longboat Key’s secluded north end. Unlike many LBK beaches, it offers easy access and ample parking. Its sugary white sands, turquoise water and uncrowded shoreline make it perfect for your peaceful picnic. Pack a basket, wander past driftwood and shells and stroll north toward Beer Can Island if you feel like a light trek. Just watch out for curious seabirds eyeing your snacks.
St. Armands Circle isn’t exactly on the beach, but it’s a short stroll away. At its heart is a tranquil park with a lush lawn and shady trees that George Seurat would have loved painting. It’s the perfect circle for take-out picnics and people-watching. Tip: For a romantic interlude, order the Grand Oyster Tasting (a dozen oysters, each a different variety) from nearby Crab & Fin — 12 flavors for 12 ways to show your love.
North Lido Beach is a haven for those who crave solitude and unspoiled beauty. Here, quiet dunes and tangled mangroves frame a wide, open shoreline with space to breathe. Settle in with simple fare, let your blanket catch the breeze and watch dolphins and shorebirds forage for their own midday picnic.
Lido Beach’s public area is ideal for picnickers who want convenience along with a great view. The pavilion has parking, restrooms, showers, lifeguards and shaded picnic tables, so it’s easy to settle in for the day. Best of all, the on-site Lido Island Grill serves lobster rolls that taste straight out of Maine. If you’re lucky, the only thing you’ll have to fight off for a bite are the seagulls.
Ted Sperling Park on the southern tip of Lido Key offers a wilder kind of picnic setting. With no lifeguards, but plenty of beach, nature trails and kayak rentals, it’s easy to pair lunch with a little adventure. On the weekends, it’s a lively local party spot. But the views where the Gulf, bay and pass meet are beautifully serene. Spread out a blanket, dig into your basket, and let the water set the mood.
The Siesta Beach Pavilion makes picnicking easy at one of the world’s most celebrated beaches. Shaded tables, picnic areas with grills, restrooms and a playground invite you to spend the day on quartz-white sand. Bring food to grill or order from the on-site Siesta Key Eats (which also delivers snacks, cocktails and meals right to your spot on the sand). Anchored by the historic Sarasota School of Architecture pavilion and a sleek new addition, this hub blends classic design with modern convenience. Arrive early — the free parking fills quickly.
Turtle Beach Park is ideal for a laid-back family-style picnic — quieter than Siesta but never deserted. Its small pavilion and picnic shelters offer shady spots for lunch, with the beach just a short stroll away. The grounds include a playground, horseshoe courts, grills, restrooms and a boat ramp and kayak launch. You might even find a tortoise to share your picnic with.
Nokomis Beach Park is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach. The mid-century modern Nokomis Beach Plaza, designed by Jack West and lovingly restored, sets a retro-chic backdrop for shady picnic shelters, a playground and easy access trails to both the Gulf and bay. With lifeguards, restrooms and plenty of parking, it’s both practical and picturesque. Pack a basket, spread out by the sand and let a little mid-century charm spice up your picnic.
North Jetty Beach brings a lively twist to picnicking. Claim a shady table or shelter and watch boats slip through the channel between the Gulf and Intracoastal; it’s one of the best shows around. Fishermen line the jetty, kids command the playground and there’s even a concession stand. With volleyball, restrooms and showers, it’s a bustling spot for beachgoers, picnickers and fishermen alike. (If the fish don’t bite, the snack bar always has a great catch.)
