Tips For Planning a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
![A man and woman wearing Hawaiian shirts for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-person-and-person-wearing-hawaiian-shirts-descr.jpeg)
Dive in to get tips for planning a Sand and Sea fundraiser. These ideas also work for a Rock the Yacht fundraiser theme. These themes are versatile and can be customized for different audiences. The nautical and beach-inspired decor, entertainment, games, food, and live/silent auction ideas provided in this blog will add waves of fun and excitement for your guests.
To get started send a save the date for your event. This is an example from a recent fundraiser:
![Sand and Sea Fundraiser Signs](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-close-up-of-a-flyer-description-automatically-g.jpeg)
You also need to create a great event program.
![Sand and Sea Fundraiser Programs](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-group-of-colorful-glasses-on-a-table-descriptio.jpeg)
Venue Decor Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
To create the right atmosphere, transform your venue into a coastal oasis or luxury yacht scene. Incorporate beach signs, seashells, tropical flowers, anchors, ship wheels, ropes, and buoys for an authentic nautical or beachy vibe.
Here are some examples from recent Sand and Sea and Rock the Yacht fundraisers:
![A collection of Sand and Sea Fundraiser signs](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-collection-of-signs-with-text-description-autom.jpeg)
![A blue bottle with rope and a compass for Sand and Sea Fundraiser Decor](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-blue-bottle-with-rope-and-a-compass-description.jpeg)
![A blue lantern and seashells on a white surface for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser decor idea](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-blue-lantern-and-seashells-on-a-white-surface-d-1024x681.jpeg)
![A glass jug with sand and shells for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser decor idea](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-glass-jug-with-sand-and-shells-description-auto.jpeg)
![A ice sculpture of a ship on a table for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser decor idea](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-ice-sculpture-of-a-ship-on-a-table-description.jpeg)
![A group of people at a Sand and Sea Fundraiser event](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-group-of-people-in-a-room-with-a-projector-desc.jpeg)
![A chair and umbrella on a stage for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser decor idea](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-chair-and-umbrella-on-a-stage-description-autom.jpeg)
![A large group of people at a Sand and Sea Fundraiser event](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-large-group-of-people-in-a-room-description-aut.jpeg)
![A group of people at a Sand and Sea Fundraiser event](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-group-of-people-in-a-room-description-automatic.jpeg)
Table Décor Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
Bring the sea and beach to each table. Tables are a big part of the decor experience. Here are some ideas for beachy, yacht-inspired table décor:
Centerpieces
Create centerpieces with seashells, tropical flowers, pineapples, fishing nets, and other beach and sea-related items, like the following:
![A centerpiece a Sand and Sea Fundraiser decor idea](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-13.jpeg)
![A table with a net and a couple of glasses on it for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-table-with-a-net-and-a-couple-of-glasses-on-it.jpeg)
![A table with a net and a couple of glasses on it for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-15.jpeg)
![A table centerpiece with flowers and candles on it for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-16.jpeg)
![A pineapple in a bowl with candles around it for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-pineapple-in-a-bowl-with-candles-around-it-desc.jpeg)
![A group of seashells and starfish on a fishing net for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-group-of-seashells-and-starfish-on-a-fishing-net.jpeg)
![A round table with a life jacket and a paddle for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser centerpiece decoration.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-round-table-with-a-life-jacket-and-a-paddle-des-e1732137191973.jpeg)
Table Settings
Choose nautical-themed tableware, such as navy-blue napkins, gold cutlery, and white plates. For a lighter beach feel, go with white or beige tones with touches of blue.
Place Cards
Use miniature sailboats, starfish, or shells as place cards. For a charming coastal touch, write guests’ names on small sand dollars.
Table Names
Instead of numbers, name tables after famous beaches, seaside towns, or islands like Maui, Santorini, or Bahamas.
Venue and table décor can be found on Amazon by searching:
- Beach party décor
- Beach party decorations
- Nautical décor
- Yacht party décor
- Yacht party decorations
Photo Backdrop/Booth ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
![A group of people posing for a photo for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-group-of-people-posing-for-a-photo-description.jpeg)
![A man and woman standing in front of a boatposing for a photo for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-person-and-person-standing-in-front-of-a-boat-d.jpeg)
Create a photo area and include theme-oriented items such as sailor hats, sunglasses, snorkels, and beach balls. You can also use beach, sea or yacht backdrops to enhance the photo area. Encourage guests to share photos on social media. Post a sign that includes hashtags for them to use.
Entertainment Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
The entertainment will help set the tone for the night and keep guests engaged.
Live Music or DJ
![A stage with a large screen decorated
for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-stage-with-a-large-screen-description-automatic.jpeg)
A live band playing beachy classics or yacht rock music from Jimmy Buffett or Fleetwood Mac can set a relaxed, upbeat vibe. A DJ with a mix of island music and crowd favorites will also keep the energy going.
Fundraiser Game Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
Adding a few fun, engaging themed games will encourage guests to participate, which will help you raise more money at your fundraiser.
Fish For Food Fundraiser Game
![Fish for Food sand and sea fundraiser game](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-pool-filled-with-balls-in-a-room-with-a-glass-do.jpeg)
In the Fish for Food fundraiser game, guests pay $25 or more to cast a rod to catch a fish. If they catch a fish, they could win a $50-$100 restaurant gift card.
Message in a Bottle Raffle
![A message in a bottle sand and sea fundraiser game.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-message-in-a-bottle-on-sand-description-automat.jpeg)
Create a sense of mystery and excitement with the Message in a Bottle fundraiser game. Fill glass bottles with rolled pieces of paper containing various prizes or numbers linked to prizes. Place the bottles in a large container or basket. Add sand to the container or basket to give it a beachy vibe. Guests pay $25 or more to buy a bottle to see what they win.
Costume Contest
![A man and woman standing in front of a boat prop as part of a sand and sea fundraiser costume contest.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-person-and-person-standing-in-front-of-a-boat-d-1.jpeg)
![A man and woman standing in front of a beach as part of a sand and sea fundraiser costume contest.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-person-and-person-standing-in-front-of-a-beach.jpeg)
![A man and woman standing next to each other as part of a sand and sea fundraiser costume contest.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-person-and-person-standing-next-to-each-other-d.jpeg)
Make your Sand and Sea/yacht theme fundraiser stand out by encouraging guests to wear creative nautical or tropical outfits. Offer prizes for categories like:
- Best Outfit
- Most Creative Outfit
- Best Dressed Couple
Anchor Toss/Seashell Toss
An Anchor Toss or Seashell Toss game is a fun twist on the ring toss game. Guests pay $25 or more to toss miniature plastic anchors or seashells onto a long table with various prizes written in squares. They win the prize listed in the square the anchor or seashell lands on.
Treasure Hunt
![A map with a compass as part of a treasure map challenge for a sand and sea fundraiser event.
Description automatically generated](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-map-with-a-compass-description-automatically-ge.jpeg)
Set up a treasure map challenge. Guests follow clues to find treasures, which could be small prizes or gift cards placed throughout the venue. Guests pay $25 or more to participate in the treasure hunt. They pay $10-$15 for additional clues.
Silent Auction Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
Curate items with a coastal or luxury vibe for your silent auction to keep the theme consistent.
![Silent auction ideas for a sand and sea fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-table-with-signs-and-a-mirror-description-autom.jpeg)
Beach Getaway Basket
Fill a basket with beach towels, suntan lotion, sunglasses, a beach bag, and other beach-themed items. To get more information about basket fundraisers, read our blog and watch our video playlist.
Nautical Décor Set
Auction off coastal-themed home décor items like framed ocean photography, seashell wreaths, and candle holders.
Yacht Day Experience
Offer a private yacht or sailboat day trip experience and include items they can enjoy during their adventure.
Water Sports Package
For adventure lovers, put together a collection of beach gear, such as paddleboards, snorkel sets, and beach towels.
Sign-Up Party Fundraiser
![A sign up party sand and sea fundraiser idea.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-30.jpeg)
Sign-up parties focus on specific activities for kids or adults. These parties can focus on activities related to your theme or a variety of interests, hobbies, and activities that will appeal to your guests or their children. The events or activities can be at a host’s home, a restaurant, or event venue.
A sign-up party for a Sea and Sand fundraiser for adults could be:
- A party on a yacht or party boat
- Fabulous seafood catered to the host’s home or at a popular restaurant
- A pool party with games, delicious seafood, and specialty drinks.
- Some other popular sign-up party ideas focus on tournaments, specialty liquor, and dining experiences.
The parties are open to a limited number of guests. The price to attend usually ranges from $25 to $150 per person, depending on the activities. To see examples of a variety of sign-up parties, read our blog.
Food Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
Food is a big part of the experience. Here are some food ideas to add a tropical vibe to your fundraiser:
Appetizers
![A lobster roll and potato chips for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-lobster-roll-and-potato-chips-on-a-plate-descri.jpeg)
![A plate of shrimp with sauce for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-plate-of-shrimp-with-sauce-description-automati.jpeg)
![Coconut shrimp for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-33.jpeg)
![A plate of fried chicken with sauces for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-plate-of-fried-chicken-with-sauces-description.jpeg)
Main Course
![Grilled salmon for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-35-1024x681.jpeg)
![A plate of lobster and asparagus for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-plate-of-lobster-and-asparagus-description-auto-1024x856.jpeg)
![A plate of grilled seafood on a table for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-plate-of-food-on-a-table-description-automatica-1024x609.jpeg)
![A plate of pasta with shrimp and seafood for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-plate-of-pasta-with-shrimp-and-seafood-descript-1024x681.jpeg)
Desserts
![Coconut Macaroons for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-39.jpeg)
![A slice of key lime pie on a plate for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-slice-of-pie-on-a-plate-description-automatical.jpeg)
Signature Drinks
![Signature drinks for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/word-image-117012-41.jpeg)
![A couple of white cocktails with umbrellas and fruits for a Sand and Sea or Yacht Theme Fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-couple-of-white-cocktails-with-umbrellas-and-fru.jpeg)
Offer signature alcoholic or mocktail drinks like Blue Lagoon, Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri, Tequila Sunrise, Mojito, Strawberry Margarita, and Sea Breeze.
Live Auction Package Ideas for a Sand and Sea Fundraiser
Make sure the live auction for your Sand and Sea fundraiser is packed with high-value, theme items to maximize excitement and fundraising. These travel and experience packages, will catch the attention of your guests:
![Fiji paradise live auction package Ideas for a sand and sea fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-poster-of-a-beach-resort-description-automatica.png)
![Fort Village Resort in Sardinia live auction package Ideas for a sand and sea fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-collage-of-a-beach-and-a-person-in-a-pool-descr-1024x1024.png)
![Tropical beach collection live auction package Ideas for a sand and sea fundraiser.](https://muradauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/a-collage-of-images-of-a-beach-description-automa-1024x1024.png)
These are no-risk consignment auction packages, which means your organization does not pay unless the items are sold at your event. A skilled auctioneer can easily get top dollar for these exclusive packages. Another benefit of offering these type packages at your fundraiser is they can be sold multiple time to increase your profits. For more travel and experience live auction package ideas, visit our website.
Other Tips to Maximize Fundraiser Profit
To maximize fundraiser profit, check out these other essential fundraising services:
- Live auction services
- Professional charity auctioneer
- Silent auction services
- Auction and event services
Watch our testimonial video playlist to find out how these services helped other nonprofit organizations have successful fundraising events and increase fundraiser profit.
Fundraiser Theme Resources
To get more fundraiser theme ideas, check out our latest fundraiser theme blogs.
Our free downloadable fundraiser theme e-book is also a great resource: 20 Fun & Creative Fundraising Themes Your Guests Will Love.
If you need help planning a successful Sand and Sea or Yacht theme fundraiser, Murad Auctions is here to help. Contact us or schedule a free consultation.