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BBQ spots

A beach outing where the barbecue is the main event rather than a secondary option to the waves.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sea Salt at the Beach image 1
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Barbecue restaurant

Beachfront barbecue spot offers live music and open-air dancing with ocean views and fire pits for bonfires. The atmosphere is lively and fun, drawing a beach crowd that enjoys sunsets and energetic vibes. A small dance floor and separate bar area support the social, festive setting.

Live music plays right on the sand with bands like Pulp Vixen performing at a beach bar. The beach offers bonfire pits and a lively atmosphere for dancing and enjoying the water view.

Heritage BBQ offers an authentic and impressive takeover with a limited menu. Lines here are shorter than at their SJC spot, and the BBQ tastes great though it leans pricey.

People are saying

"The live music here is super enjoyable with a fun beach crowd."

"I loved the live music and fun atmosphere by the beach."

"The live music and dancing by the beach made the BBQ worth it."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices for food and drinks, with beers costing around $10.

2

Seating is limited, and shade is hard to find.

3

Parking is only available in the State parking lot, which can fill up quickly.

02
Gulfstream Park image 1

Beachfront park offers quiet, less crowded shores with soft sand and clear waters. Lush greenery and a scenic boardwalk provide a peaceful setting for walking and birdwatching. Facilities include playgrounds, picnic areas, and BBQ grills near the beach.

Soft white sand and crystal-clear waters create a picturesque and clean beach. Amenities include showers, restrooms, and plenty of parking, with easy entry and spots for barbecuing near the shore.

Barbecue grills sit just steps from the beach, surrounded by shaded picnic tables and a well-maintained area. Nearby restrooms and showers add convenience for a full day outdoors.

People are saying

"I loved the easy beach access and free parking."

"It's kid friendly with a great playground near the picnic areas."

"You can enjoy the BBQ grills right by the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at Gulfstream Park, but it fills up quickly on weekends.

2

The beach offers picnic tables and BBQ grills for visitors.

3

Restrooms and showers are available near the beach area.

03
Ocean Reef Park image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with free parking and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and barbecue pavilions. Shaded walkways lead to a clean, scenic shoreline guarded for safety. The space suits relaxing days without crowds.

Wide, clean sand meets gentle waves and a lot of exposed reef for walking. Lifeguards keep the beach safe, and a wood walkway offers easy access.

Well-maintained picnic areas include tables and grills for barbecues. Accessible barbecue pits and nearby toilets support outdoor gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful."

"It's easy to find free parking available here."

"It's a great spot for a birthday party and BBQ outside."

Good to know

1

Parking at Ocean Reef Park is free for all visitors.

2

Parking fills up quickly during holidays like the 4th of July.

3

Bathrooms and showers are available for beachgoers.

04
Hollywood North Beach Park image 1

Beach park offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with clean white sand and turquoise blue sea. Boardwalk runs alongside the beach, providing space for relaxing walks and bike rides. Shaded picnic areas with BBQ grills and tables add to the calm, welcoming vibe.

White sand and turquoise blue sea create a beautiful beach setting. Parking is affordable and convenient with direct access, plus free showers and a broadwalk enhance the experience.

Plenty of BBQ grills and picnic tables sit in shaded areas near the beach. The space stays clean and offers a nice spot for a family or small group barbecue.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"I had so much fun swimming in the ocean waves here."

"It's a great spot for a BBQ with picnic tables and grills."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 for the day, which is reasonable for beach access.

2

The beach has no showers available for rinsing off sand.

3

Restrooms at the beach need better maintenance.

05
Lake Welch Beach image 1

Beach offers spacious natural surroundings with clean, refreshing water and extensive BBQ facilities. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful family-friendly early hours to lively, music-filled gatherings later. Lifeguards and ample parking support a well-maintained, safe environment.

A big sandy area with lifeguards on duty makes swimming safe and enjoyable. Plenty of space for families to spread out, with picnic tables and BBQ grills nearby for relaxing and eating.

Many picnic tables come with BBQ grills and grilling facilities. Arriving early, by 7:30 AM, helps secure a spot for barbecue and outdoor fun.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, clean, and spacious."

"Parking cost only $10 per vehicle."

"You can bring your own grills to the grass area near the beach."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per car, and no other fees are required.

2

Arrive by 7:30 AM to secure a BBQ or grilling stand.

3

Expect long wait times for bathrooms during peak hours.

06
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park image 1

Beachfront park offers quiet, wide open spaces with mesmerizing ocean views and natural, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. Visitors find kayak rentals and picnic areas amid a setting free from nearby buildings, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment.

Private and peaceful beach with a clean environment. Great spot for a BBQ lunch and family days.

BBQ grills and picnic tables sit quietly in a family-friendly area. The spot works well for barbecue lunches and gatherings near the beach.

People are saying

"The beach parking is huge and accommodates RVs."

"The parks here are beautiful and offer a chill beach vibe."

"It's a great spot for a peaceful barbecue picnic."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle, allowing up to 8 people.

2

Parking is spacious but can be difficult during events.

3

Restrooms at the park are modern and clean.

07
Sherwood Island State Park image 1

State park offers spacious beach and paved walkways with spectacular water views. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, with calm waves and gentle gull cries. Facilities include barbecue areas, picnic tables, and trails for walking and biking.

Clean, quiet beach with a nice, not very rocky shoreline. Offers picnic areas and parking near the Long Island Sound.

Many BBQ areas sit among beautiful trees and green spaces. The spot offers picnic spots, a good beach, and restrooms nearby.

People are saying

"The beach here offers beautiful views of the Long Island Sound."

"There was tons of parking available."

"It's a great spot for BBQ and hanging out with friends."

Good to know

1

Entry is free for cars with Connecticut plates; $25 for out-of-state vehicles.

2

Parking is plentiful, but no free options for out-of-state vehicles.

3

Restrooms are available but may not be well maintained.

08
Rainbow Beach Park image 1

City park offers beautiful lakefront views and a spacious beach with a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and meditation. Activities include BBQ, kayaking, and jogging, with occasional live music and food vendors enhancing the experience.

Clean water and a well-maintained beach make this spot great for swimming and picnics. Plenty of lifeguards keep the area safe, and the beach offers beautiful views of downtown.

Barbecue spots sit right by the water with space to grill and relax. Live music plays while people barbecue and swim nearby.

People are saying

"The beach here is super clean and never feels crowded."

"I loved the nice view of downtown Chicago across the lake."

"It's a great spot to BBQ and meet new people."

Good to know

1

Parking at Rainbow Beach Park is not free and can be limited.

2

The restroom facilities may be closed during your visit.

3

Expect peak hours from 7pm to 2am, which can be crowded.

09
Lake Sammamish State Park image 1

Lake Sammamish State Park offers spacious beach areas and beautiful lake views with a peaceful, serene atmosphere that feels like a private garden. It attracts families and groups for picnics, playground fun, and boating activities in a well-maintained, natural setting.

A large beach with shallow swimming areas makes it ideal for kids and beginners in kayaking. Facilities include restrooms and outdoor rinse stations on paved paths, supporting family outings and picnics.

Picnic tables and barbecue grills are available for use. The park offers picnic and BBQ areas near the lake and playgrounds, making it a solid spot for gatherings and barbecues.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of clean, well-maintained areas."

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and sandy."

"It's a great spot for swimming and BBQ."

Good to know

1

A Discover Pass is required or a day fee to access the park.

2

The park has a big beach that is perfect for summer water fun.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

10
Seahurst Park image 1

Expansive beach and forest trails offer breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. The atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, ideal for families with a well-maintained playground and picnic areas. Large smooth logs along the shore provide natural seating to enjoy sunset vistas.

Expansive beach walks offer breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Low tide reveals starfish and sea urchins on the north end, and the beach suits dog strolls and family outings well.

Picnic areas come with BBQ grills and both covered and uncovered spots for cooking. Renting day spots with group-friendly BBQ areas suits family cookouts or small gatherings.

People are saying

"I loved this beach for its beautiful sunset views."

"I loved the beautiful views of the Sound and the Olympics."

"It's a great spot for a family BBQ with covered areas."

Good to know

1

Parking at Seahurst Park is limited in the nearby lot.

2

The parking lot experiences thefts frequently despite having no security cameras.

3

The beach is not suitable for swimming due to the abundance of seaweed.

11
Ocean Inlet Park image 1

Park spans over 11 acres with large pier, observatory deck, and 600 feet of beach. Atmosphere stays peaceful and spacious, offering quiet ocean views and a private beach feeling. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas with grills, and fishing access, attracting families and boaters.

A quiet and relaxing beach with both grassy and sandy areas offers safe swimming spots for kids with gentle waves and lifeguards on duty. Free parking and views of boats passing through the inlet add to the experience.

Accessible BBQ grills and shelters make it easy to cook and relax. Nearby restrooms add convenience during barbecues.

People are saying

"I loved watching the boats and fishing at these parks."

"I found free parking and restrooms right at the beach."

"I enjoyed doing BBQ here with my family and friends."

Good to know

1

Parking can be problematic on weekends after 9 am.

2

The beach is protected and has lifeguards on duty.

3

Dogs are allowed on the Intracoastal Waterway side of the park.

12
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach image 1

Sandy beach offers panoramic views of San Francisco and downtown Oakland across the bay. Calm atmosphere invites relaxation and water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding. Spacious area includes barbecue pits, picnic tables, and a well-maintained dog park nearby.

Calm water stays shallow far out, making it safe and fun for toddlers. The beach offers free parking, BBQ areas, and picnic tables for family outings.

Plenty of barbecue pits and picnic tables sit right by the sandy beach. Volleyball courts and bathrooms nearby make it easy to enjoy a full day of grilling and hanging out.

People are saying

"This beach is great for families with gentle waves and shallow water."

"I loved the nice view of San Francisco across the bay."

"It's a great spot for a BBQ with picnic tables available."

Good to know

1

There is a very close parking lot available.

2

The beach is free.

3

Dogs are not allowed on this beach, and the rangers enforce this rule very seriously.

13
63rd Street Beach image 1

Small businesses and vendors line the beach, creating a lively atmosphere with beautiful views. Plenty of parking and a well-maintained space make it convenient and welcoming. The beach stays uncrowded and quiet after evening hours.

Clean and well maintained with beautiful views, the beach offers a little bit of everything and stays not crowded. Small businesses and vendors set up along the shore create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Access to the beach makes it a solid spot for barbecues. Plenty of space suits gatherings with friends or family.

People are saying

"It's a great place to barbecue, perfect for gatherings."

"This beach has beautiful views and is a fantastic spot."

"There was plenty of parking available, which made visiting super convenient."

Good to know

1

The entire parking lot is now pay-to-park, whereas it used to be free.

2

There was plenty of parking, which made visiting super convenient.

3

The washrooms were well-kept and clean.

14
Dockweiler Beach image 1

Beach features large fire pits scattered on the sand for evening bonfires, creating a peaceful and calm atmosphere. An alcove setting with mountain views and planes taking off nearby adds unique energy. A paved multi-use path runs along the shore, supporting biking, running, and walking.

A full-blown beach bonfire is allowed here, making it unique in the area. The beach is clean, flat, and kid-friendly, with easy access and views of planes taking off overhead.

Grills are available for barbecue right on the beach, offering a spot to cook and relax. The area allows setting up a canopy and enjoying the day while watching international flights take off nearby.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and peaceful, especially at sunset."

"I enjoyed the beautiful, excellent ocean view."

"You can have a BBQ here with grills and fire pits."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $13 with no in-and-out privileges.

2

Arrive early, between 5am and 8am, to secure a fire pit.

3

Dockweiler Beach is the only place in LA County for beach bonfires.

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