Grilling on Vacation: The Ultimate Waterfront Cookout Picnic at Sandaway Suites & Beach

There’s something truly special about grilling at a beach destination—the salty breeze, the sound of lapping waves, and the smoky aroma of delicious food cooking over open flames. At Sandaway Suites & Beach in Oxford, MD, guests can experience this Eastern Shore tradition at one of the five grilling stations in Kenny’s All-American BBQ Courtyard ™, just behind the basketball court.

This vibrant grilling area is named in honor of Navy veteran Kenny Gibson, Sandaway’s founder, who loved barbecuing and playing basketball with family, especially during patriotic holidays like Memorial Day and Independence Day. The courtyard features five distinct grilling stations, including four adorned with the Stars and Stripes and one surrounded by American flags, creating the perfect atmosphere for a memorable cookout.

Need supplies? Oxford Market, conveniently located nearby, offers everything from charcoal to your favorite grilling meats. Once your meal is ready, take it to our waterfront picnic tables on the lawn or spread out a blanket for a relaxing picnic by the beach.

Local Flavors for a Chesapeake Bay Cookout

Grilling at Sandaway Suites & Beach is a special experience, and embracing local flavors makes it even better. Here are some must-try Eastern Shore ingredients:

Chesapeake Bay Seafood Specialties

• Grilled Rockfish with Lemon Butter and Old Bay—a light, flaky fish with a simple yet flavorful marinade.

• Chesapeake Grilled Oysters—fresh oysters, grilled with garlic butter and a touch of Old Bay.

• Crab-Stuffed Jalapeños—a spicy appetizer packed with Maryland blue crab meat.

Farm-Fresh Produce

• Sweet Corn on the Cob—Maryland sweet corn grilled and brushed with butter.

• Grilled Zucchini and Asparagus—a smoky side dish with olive oil and sea salt.

• Tomatoes and Peaches—slice and grill for a burst of summer sweetness.

Eastern Shore BBQ Classics

• Maryland-Style BBQ Chicken—marinated in a vinegar-based BBQ sauce, then grilled for signature tangy flavor.

• Hickory-Smoked Pork Chops—a local favorite, seasoned with a smoky dry rub.

Tips for the Perfect Waterfront Cookout

To get the most out of your grilling experience at Kenny’s All-American BBQ Courtyard, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Buy Local—The freshest seafood and produce come from nearby markets.

• Preheat the Grill—Starting with a hot grill prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

• Marinate Seafood and Meats—A simple marinade with lemon, olive oil, and Old Bay enhances flavor.

• Wrap Corn in Foil—Keeps moisture locked in while adding a smoky char.

• Use Cast Iron for Crab Cakes—Creates a perfect sear while keeping them intact.

Drink Pairings to Complement Grilled Dishes

Pairing the right beverage with your meal enhances the overall experience. Consider these options:

• Rockfish pairs well with a crisp Chesapeake Bay Sauvignon Blanc.

• Oysters complement a classic martini with a lemon twist.

• BBQ Chicken goes perfectly with locally brewed craft beer or an IPA.

• Sweet Corn and Grilled Peaches pair beautifully with a refreshing bourbon lemonade.

A Chesapeake Bay Feast by the Water

For the ultimate Eastern Shore grilling experience, here’s a full cookout menu idea:

Starters

• Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter

• Crab-Stuffed Jalapeños

Main Course

• Grilled Rockfish with Herbs and Lemon

• Maryland BBQ Chicken

Sides

• Sweet Corn on the Cob with Butter

• Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad

• Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Drinks

• Chesapeake Bay Sauvignon Blanc

• Eastern Shore Bourbon Lemonade

Dessert

• Grilled Pound Cake with Fresh Berries

• Homemade Peach Cobbler

The Sandaway Waterfront Grilling Experience

With five grilling stations at Kenny’s All-American BBQ Courtyard, picnic tables, and breathtaking waterfront views, Sandaway Suites & Beach offers a one-of-a-kind cookout experience. Whether you’re grilling fresh seafood, farm-fresh produce, or classic barbecue, every meal feels more special by the water.

Fire up the grill, enjoy the view, and savor the flavors of the Eastern Shore.