Planning your next beach get away? Thoughts of everyone gathered around the fire pit wiggling their toes down into the sand out by the dunes. Many of us suburbanites live hours away from the coast. Don’t wait for vacation, build your own backyard beach. I am crazy about this idea inspired by myhomeideas.com. So what do you need to pull this off?

• A truckload of sand could be obtained from your local building supply company
• Large pieces of driftwood can be shipped to your door; Google to find a supplier
• A selection of fire pits are found through MantelsDirect.com and quickly delivered
• Plants and large rocks are available at your local nursery or home center

I would suggest native plans that thrive in your local climate.  Ornamental pampas grass is pictured here would bring a coastal vibe to your backyard beach. Installing this outdoor space too near irrigation may find your beach washed away by the sprinklers. Not to mention wet sand is sticky. Who wants to find sandy footprints tracked across the den floor? Fire pits are the focal point which pulls all your friends and family together.  A gas fire pit eliminates having to keep firewood on hand and any concerns about extinguishing the flame at the end of the evening. If your home already is equipped with natural gas, a line could be run to the area where you want a fire pit.  If not, then a propane tank could easily be hidden behind a sand dune.

This is an easy project that requires no special tools or skills, just great imagination. I can just see it now, when the sun goes down, suntanned toes ticklin the sand, cold drink chillin in my right hand…give us a call for help in picking out the perfect fire pit for your backyard beach.