The Best Summer Host Gifts to Grab and Go
School is out, and we’re just days away from the official start of summer, which means the beach is calling! If you're headed to the coast and visiting friends or family, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite host gifts that are easy to grab and sure to please—even the pickiest recipients.
It can be tricky when you’re not familiar with someone’s décor or what they already own. That’s why I love giving consumables and interactive gifts—things they’ll actually use, rather than something that adds to their shelves.
Let’s start with a classic: candles. They’re a fan favorite and rarely disappoint, especially in summery scents like Sydney Hale’s Sea Salt and Bay Rum. Want to go the extra mile? Add a candle care kit and a beautiful box of matches to create a thoughtful set.
Puzzles and games fly off our shelves in summer, and for good reason. What better way to spend time together than over a puzzle or a game that gets everyone involved? We’ve got options for all ages at all three stores: Quicktionary at Penny Post is an easy toss-in-your-bag pick, Swish at Pippin Toy Co. is perfect for kids (plus the cards are waterproof!), and I just love the Sea Cottage puzzle at Red Barn Mercantile–1000 pieces sure to keep you busy!
No summer vacation is complete without a signature cocktail or mocktail. A simple syrup—especially our glittery simple syrup—is a crowd-pleaser when paired with lemonade (spiked or not). Add your favorite lemonade recipe, a bag of lemons, and maybe a bottle of your go-to spirit, and you’ve got a festive, easy-to-enjoy gift.
Even at the beach, people need a spot to jot down lists, meal plans, game scores, or daily itineraries. Why not make it fun with a themed notepad and pen? Make it a stack of three or throw in little notes from E. Frances and my favorite Caran d’Ache ballpoint pen in a fun color—your host will think of you every time they scribble something down.
If home décor is more your gifting style, and you know your host well, a simple dish towel is a can’t-miss choice. It’s lightweight, unbreakable, and easy to pack. Whether they hang it on the oven or stash it in a drawer, it’s both useful and lovely. Want to take it up a notch? Pair it with a coastal-inspired cookbook and a gorgeous wooden spoon for a thoughtful kitchen set that’s perfect for seafood boils and crab cracking!
Whether you're headed to the beach, the mountains, or the city, these host gift ideas translate to any summer setting. And if you need a hand, we’ve got plenty more ideas—just stop in and we’ll help you pull together something your host will love!
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