Tropical themed party ideas with a retro vibe for the modern host. You’ll love these decorations, food, and tips for an Island party whether you’re hosting a Luau or Caribbean theme. Today we’re going to the Tropics for some fun in the sun and delicious food and drinks! I opted to forgo the grass skirt trim and flowery leis, but I did include mini drink umbrellas, shells and coral.
You can also grab some inspiration from this Havana theme party full of tropical ideas with a Cuban influence. Blue to emulate the sea, bright colors to reflect the beautiful flowers, and neutral/brown tones to give that rustic island feel.
Other items include decorative corral, sea shells, starfish, and sand dollars. String jute twine between two garden stakes and place them above the buffet table. If you want to host a sit down meal check out this green dinner party with a tropical inspired tablescape, and then see how to decorate your deck or patio with greenery for a relaxing retreat. Top them with real or faux tropical leaves and palm fronds for an INSTANT island touch! Fresh tropical fruits are great for making salsas, and mini shrimp cocktails bring the ocean to you. I didn’t really follow a recipe, I just blended different combinations using green & red bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, red onion, black beans (drained and rinsed), cilantro, diced tomato, lime juice and salt.
I didn’t really follow a recipe, I just blended different combinations using green & red bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, red onion, black beans (drained and rinsed), cilantro, diced tomato, lime juice and salt. HOSTESS TIP: Used a biscuit cutter to make smaller party size rounds in the soft taco shells.
Used a biscuit cutter to make smaller party size rounds in the soft taco shells.
Just thread thinly sliced chicken breast onto skewers and brush with a jarred satay sauce when grilling.
They’re so convenient to pick up and eat, and they make great party food for all occasions. HOSTESS TIP: Make these Jerk Seasoned chicken skewers for more island flavor.
Just thread thinly sliced chicken breast onto skewers and brush with a jarred satay sauce when grilling. They’re so convenient to pick up and eat, and they make great party food for all occasions. Put tropical flavored bottled drinks in a tub of ice so guests can help themselves.
PARTY TIP: Add sea shells to the ice bucket for an unexpected touch. Party drinks Aside from offering easy-to-grab bottled beverages, choose a signature cocktail for the occasion. Mix up this easy pitcher party drink that’s got 2 kinds of rum and a fruity coconut flavor.
Don’t be fooled by the name, this blackberry moonshine cocktail is smooth and full of pineapple goodness. Tropical Themed Desserts It doesn’t take too much effort to make some sweet treats with an island feel.
Make mini coconut cream parfaits using packaged pudding mix.
Layer the pudding with graham cracker crumbs and then top with a chocolate shell. Graham cracker crumbs or brown sugar give a beach sand effect. .” Be a thoughtful hostess and provide paper fans for guests to stay cool.
They fold up so they’re easy to corral in a small bucket and guests can pick one up as needed. They fold up so they’re easy to corral in a small bucket and guests can pick one up as needed.
Fill small paper sacks with tropical blend trail mix . Add a festive playlist Here’s a party play list with tropical vibes that will get you in the right mood!




















