Allison

A cluster of hanging beach balls created a whimsical, colorful chandelier at a party created by Swank Productions. Adding to the look were tables covered in bright, summery linens.

One of the more striking food presentations at L.A. Center Studios for the Lexus grand tasting during Los Angeles Food & Wine festival last year, was created by Post Ranch Inn. The Big Sur resort used sugar as sand in a metal bucket where it served shaved ice cones. Starfish and greenery decked the beach-like scene.

The Travel Channel looked to evoke tropical destinations in March 2009 when it took over Grand Central Terminal's Vanderbilt Hall for a lounge that promoted its Bridget's Sexiest Beaches series. In addition to a tiki hut-style bar, the brand served New York commuters and tourists non-alcoholic piña coladas, margaritas, and strawberry daiquiris during lunch hours.

To fete the opening of its new Canadian office—and to launch Porter Airlines’ new nonstop service to South Carolina—the Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau partnered with the Toronto-based airline on a beach-theme party for travel media in 2010. There, beach umbrellas, lounge chairs, and a sandbox all contributed to the look at the wintertime event.