Spring and summer nights are made for bonfires on the beach and, as of March 1, the 2025 season is officially open for business.
Here are a few of our favorite spots in the Bay Area to have a legal bonfire on the beach.
Before heading to the coast, double-check that it's not a Spare the Air day. Visit park sites for updated regulations, available dates, and group permits. Don't forget the s'mores!
Ocean Beach, San Francisco
(Tyler Drake, courtesy of The Outbound)
March 1 through October, you can warm up around a bonfire with friends and family at San Francisco's favorite beach. There are 16 fire rings located between stairwells 15 and 20 and, with plenty of available parking, it's an ideal spot for a group outing—just note that groups of 50 people or more are required to get a special use permit. Fires must be extinguished (with water only) by 9:30pm. For more details and regulations, visit nps.gov.
Insider Tip: If you're carless or prefer public transportation, take the N Judah to the beach.
Muir Beach, Mill Valley
(Courtesy of The Outbound)
Muir Beach is a little further away, but that usually translates to smaller crowds. If you're looking for an isolated spot to take in the sunset, build a bonfire, and hang out with some good friends, then this is the ticket. Just know that groups larger than 50 people are required a special permit. Muir Beach has six fire rings available May through November. Fires must be extinguished with one hour after sunset. For more information, visit nps.gov.
Inside Tip: The beach closes one hour after sunset. From December through April, there are only three fire pits on the beach, located toward the south end of the parking lot.
Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz
This wide, beautiful beach is an amazing spot to let the day turn into night. Due to its convenient proximity to the Beach Boardwalk, Seabright is probably the most popular spot in Santa Cruz for a bonfire. Get there when the sun still shines to choose from one of 10 fire pits to choose from.
Insider Tip: The beach is open for bonfires year-round and closes at 10pm.
Dillon Beach, Bodega Bay
(Courtesy of @nazim_mazmumder)
Since beach bonfires are no longer allowed at Point Reyes National Seashore, head a little farther north. You'll find six first come, first served fire rings at Dillon Beach on the shores of beautiful Tomales Bay. It's $10 to park and, although this may be the quietest of your Bay Area bonfire options, it's still smart to get there early.
Insider Tip: No need to leave your pup at home. Dillon Beach is dog-friendly!
Twin Lakes State Beach, Santa Cruz
(Courtesy of @tuningout831)
This one-mile stretch of beach is the perfect option for those seeking a peaceful Santa Cruz experience without the crowds. The beach features soft sand, playful surf, an awesome view of Walton Lighthouse, and a handful of fire pits to choose from. Bonfires are allowed year-round but have to be extinguished at 10pm.
Insider Tip: Fire pits go quickly so get there early. Parking during the summer months can be difficult and often requires a permit, which can be purchased at one of four nearby pay stations.
