Top 5: BBQs on the beach

Ocean Beach, Whangarei Heads, New Zealand

Nestled between the bays of Whangarei Harbour in Northland, New Zealand, lies the magnificent Pacific sweep of Ocean Beach. Known for its powerful surf and awesome views, Ocean Beach is the ideal location to supplement a beach barbecue with a spot of surfing, body boarding or beach combing. Though they did not invent the concept of outdoor grilling, Australians and New Zealanders have certainly made it their own. So check out some authentic recipes and break out the barbie for a tasty treat down under.

Insider tip: Look into other activities on the Whangarei Peninsula as well – horse riding, scuba-diving, kayaking and golf are just a few of many opportunities available.

Bloubergstrand Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

Bloubergstrand Beach, with its stunning views of South Africa's Table Mountain, comes at the top of our list for a barbecue in this part of the world. The wide sand beach and large lawn make this area ideal for picnics, so pack a portable grill and some supplies for a traditional South African braai. Post-barbecue, families and sports enthusiasts will revel in the abundant opportunity for kite-surfing and ball games; while in August and September, Blouberg, as the locals call it, also offers a great whale-watching vantage point.

Insider tip: Blouberg Beach is often quite windy, so be sure to prepare accordingly.

Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Famed for its nightlife, the Thai island of Koh Phangan also has plenty of daytime activities, with ample opportunities to swim or snorkel along the coral reefs. Haad Rin's wide sandy beach is a brilliant spot on the island for a summer barbecue - be sure to incorporate delicious Thai spices which can be picked up at a local market. Thai barbecue is quite healthy and not difficult, so it's the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon on Koh Phangan.

Insider tip: If you’re up for a raucous beach party, book your trip during the full moon - the Full Moon Party takes place here once a month.

Mar del Plata, Argentina

As well as an exceptional sea, Mar del Plata has cliffs, sand hills and vast sandy beaches perfect for summer walks, cycling or riding, but it is also a great spot for a relaxing barbecue on the beach. Argentine barbecue, or asado, is serious business, often encompassing hours of an afternoon or evening. Based around a foundation of meats, often beef, asado is an event in itself; pick up supplies and invite friends or family to Mar del Plato for a delicious reproduction of this Argentine tradition.

Insider tip: Don’t forget to pick up a few bottles of the country’s famous Argentine wine to enjoy with your asado.

Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz, California

Sunset is the best time to pack your cool box with some goodies and head for the stunning Pacific Coast Beach. Named for the magnificent rock formations jutting from the surrounding cliffs, Natural Bridges is bursting with natural beauty. The beach is ideal for outdoorsy types and provides an excellent vantage point for viewing shore birds, migrating whales, seals and otters frolicking offshore. Free barbecue pits are available, and sunset over the Pacific provides a stunning backdrop for a summer party - so grab a few friends and a slab of ribs and get cooking California style.

Insider tip: Make sure to stay for low tide, when the tide pools are more likely to be sprawling with interesting undersea life.