There’s something magical about a summer vacation, but sometimes, travel isn’t in the cards. Flights can be expensive and resorts are often packed. In reality, the best getaway might just a few steps out your back door. A backyard staycation can offer all the best parts of a summer trip: relaxing vibes, great food, and unforgettable memories. All it takes is a little creativity and a grill ready to bring the flavor.
Set the Scene
A few thoughtful touches can help make your outdoor space feel like a breezy resort. One way is by dividing your backyard into different zones: one for lounging, one for outdoor dining, another for grilling, and one for games and activities. Hang string lights to give off a cozy glow or even try adding tiki torches a tropical look.
Music goes a long way, too. Whether you love upbeat jams, classic hits, or calming tunes, a playlist designed by you is the soundtrack to paradise. If it gets to be extra sunny and hot, keep things cool with a misting fan or sun umbrella. It’s all about taking some extra small steps that have a big impact.
Fire Up the Flavor
Once your space feels more like a destination than just your backyard, it’s time to bring out the flavors of a beach vacation. The best memories are often linked to your senses, and these recipes are designed to transport your taste buds, even if your toes are in the grass instead of on the beach.
Drinks
Kick things off with a drink that tastes like summer in a glass. An Aperol Spritz is a crisp, citrusy cocktail with a hint of bitterness that balances beautifully with the bubbles of sparkling wine. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to sip while the grill heats up. For a non-alcoholic option, try the Watermelon Granita. This frozen treat blends fresh watermelon into a slushy that will cool you down from the inside out.
Recipes courtesy of Bull Outdoor Products.
Appetizers
For appetizers, you can’t go wrong with bite-sized and big flavor. These Pineapple-Stuffed Shrimp Wrapped in Bacon are a mouthwatering mix of sweet, savory, and smoky. Each shrimp is filled with a juicy chunk of pineapple, wrapped in bacon, and grilled to perfection. Also give this Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella a try. Creamy cheese, fresh basil, and tomato sauce are covered in prosciutto and grilled until just melty inside.
Recipes courtesy of Blue Rhino and Operation BBQ Relief.
Main Courses
When it’s time for the main meal, go bold. Grilled Tuna with Fruit Salsa is a light summery dish that’s sure to please. The tuna is marinated in a dill sauce, seared on the grill, and topped with fresh fruit. For something a little heartier, Beef Kabobs with Grilled Pineapple Salsa offer juicy chunks of beef, peppers, and onions on skewers with a sweet-and-smoky pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Recipes courtesy of National Fisheries Institute and Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.
Side Dishes
Sides can be just as exciting as the main course. Grilled Plantains caramelize on the grill until they’re golden and slightly crispy on the outside. They’re delicious on their own and bring a Caribbean feel to your meal. Another option is this Grilled Watermelon, Heirloom Tomato, and Blueberry Salad, combining summer produce, feta cheese, and fresh mint in the best way possible.
Recipes courtesy of Blue Rhino and Bull Outdoor Products.
Desserts
Dessert is a must, especially during a staycation. S’mores Pizza is a fun option with melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows over a grilled pizza crust and topped with graham cracker crumbs or nuts. If summer fruit is more your style, try this Grilled Nectarine Shortcut Shortcake. It features sliced nectarines caramelized on the grill, layered with whipped cream and buttery shortcake. It’s both fresh and indulging.
Recipes courtesy of Blue Rhino and Bull Outdoor Products.
Entertainment is Key
With the grill sizzling and your backyard looking like a mini resort, it’ll be easy to keep the good vibes going. Consider hosting a tropical-themed trivia or set up a projector and watch your favorite beach movie under the stars. Yard games like cornhole and ring toss are easy to set up and always a hit, especially when you’re using a Blue Rhino cornhole set. For something a little more lively, cue up the karaoke machine or have a dance competition right on the lawn.
Don’t Forget the Details
Even paradise requires a little planning. Before your backyard staycation kicks off, make sure you have a fresh Blue Rhino or grab a spare. Nothing stalls a cookout faster than an empty tank. Grill safely by keeping it at least 10 feet from any buildings and never leave it unattended while it’s on, and be sure to leak check before using your tank.
Most importantly, remember that summer’s best moments don’t always come from boarding a plane or booking a hotel. Sometimes, they’re right in your backyard surrounded by friends or family, music, and that unmistakable smell of something delicious on the grill.
Planning your own backyard beach day? We want to see it! Tag @BlueRhinoCo in your staycation snapshots or submit them for a chance to be featured.
Published: 2025.07.03