Where Can You Do A Beach Bonfire In Florida
Nothing beats the joy of basking in the warmth of a bonfire while spending quality time with your family and friends. Although beach fires are not typical in Sunshine State because of the year-round warm climate, still there are some beaches that allow bonfires in Florida. Let’s see where you find fire pits to enjoy this timeless pastime!
Miramar Beach – Destin
There’s nothing more magical than watching the sunset snuggled around a bonfire with your near and dear ones. And this sugar-white sandy beach nine miles east of Destin (at Public Beach Access 49) is just the place if you wonder where to have a bonfire on the beach in Florida! Just be sure to obtain a permit from South Walton Fire District and be mindful your bonfire is at least 100 feet from habitable structures.
This secluded beach in the Florida Panhandle is not only an excellent place for intimate sunset walks and romantic bonfires, but it also offers various daytime activities too so the whole family can have fun here. On the water, take advantage of the many charter fishing options to embark on an angling experience of a lifetime to Destin known as “The Luckiest Fishing Village in the World”!
Those seeking adrenaline-fueled activities can go jet-skiing or parasailing, marine lovers can explore the underwater life while snorkeling. For shopaholics, the Silver Sands Premium Outlets provide retail therapy, for kids, the Baytowne Adventure Zone offers unparalleled fun. This seaside retreat on the Emerald Coast has something for everyone!
Panama City Beach
As one of the prettiest Gulf Coast Beaches, Panama City Beach is a perfect destination for a Florida beach getaway. Get your heart racing with swimming, surfing, standup paddleboarding, and snorkeling along the 27 miles of alabaster sand. Dubbed “The Wreck Capital of the South,” the waters here are littered with shipwrecks creating artificial reefs and offering a memorable diving experience.
If you prefer land, hike or bike the trails at St. Andrews State Park. As a migratory stopover for a host of birds, the park is also great for bird watching. A trip to the undisrupted Shell Island is sure to delight with bottlenose dolphins and shelling treasures.
What’s more, your day doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down since you can continue to have fun around a beach fire. Just procure a permit and remember to have protective barriers to block light. Also, make sure not to build the fire within 250 feet of a marked turtle nest.
Cape San Blas – Gulf County
This sliver of land wedged between St. Joseph Bay and the Gulf of Mexico is home to a string of beaches that allow bonfire in Florida without a permit. So, grab some firewood and enjoy time spent with your loved ones under the stars. Be certain you burn only natural wood and are at least 100 feet apart from any structure (including boardwalks) and fill the hole filled before leaving.
If looking for daytime action, you can go swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or kayaking at the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. Or go hiking along the meandering Maritime Hammock Trail. The bayside park abounds with wildlife and is a treat for nature enthusiasts. With its pristine white sands and emerald-hued waters, this unequivocal gem on the Forgotten Coast of Florida is a perfect beach escape.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park – Dania Beach
Longing to escape the urban grind and commune with nature? Look no further than these sandy shores that straddle the barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
You can swim in the temperate waters and observe marine life at this fantastic Florida snorkeling spot. If you’d rather not, simply bury your toes in the sand and savor the sights and sounds of nature. Paddle the scenic, mangrove-lined Whiskey Creek for an immersive experience. A noted spot on the Great Florida Birding Trail, the park is incredible for birding too.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (former John U. Lloyd Beach State Park) even checks the box for a beach fire in South Florida! Beach fires must be scheduled through concessions at BG Whiskey Creek at 954-591-6586 and parks approval required.
Stuart and Jensen Beach – Martin County
Those who love exploring quiet Florida beach towns should not miss out on visiting the renowned Treasure Coast. Located along the Atlantic Coast of Central Florida, the tranquil waterfront at Stuart and Jensen Beach provides a perfect canvas for aquatic pursuits such as boating, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing. Divers can explore the shipwreck of Georges Valentine, an underwater archaeological preserve.
The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center on the nearby Hutchinson Island acquaints youngsters with coastal ecosystems and marine life while the beachfront Indian Riverside Park offers plenty of places to play and explore.
Stuart and Jensen are among the very few beaches with fire pits in Florida. Fires are allowed with permit (that are available only during non-turtle nesting season) and have to be in designated fire pits.
Satellite Beach – Brevard County
Swing by this barrier island between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean while visiting the Space Coast of Florida. Bonfires have long been part of the culture of Satellite Beach for decades, so this is the perfect location for a fun family outing or a romantic date night.
The season runs from the end of October to the end of February each year and you need to obtain a beach bonfire permit from the Recreation Department. It costs 50USD and there is a security deposit of 100USD (refundable).
The shoreline at Satellite Beach is also ideal for riding the waves. Not only does it offer small trace swells for novice surfers but also consistent surf for seasoned ones. If craving more adventure, grab your kayak and cruise the Banana River to Samsons Island. A bird watcher’s paradise with over 30 species, you can camp overnight on the island.
If traveling with kids, the Pelican Beach Park is nothing short of waterfront bliss with its playground and multiple amenities. There’s even an off-leash dog park nearby with 2 different fenced areas for different sized dogs. Should you want your furry friend to enjoy playing in the surf, then head to Canova Beach Park!
Cocoa Beach – Brevard County
What better way to end the day than to catch a sunset lounging fireside with your family and friends? As one of the beaches that allow bonfires in Florida, Cocoa Beach makes it possible! But it requires a little planning.
You must get a permit (30 USD) at the Fire Station at 50 S Orlando Ave. No permits are issued in the Turtle Nesting Season from 1st of March through 31st of October. Make sure to keep the fire at least 30 feet away from the dune. Also, your fire must occupy less than 1 cubic yard.
By the day, Cocoa Beach is a fantastic spot to relax on the soft, cocoa-colored sand and catch some rays. Go swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, or venture over to the 800-foot-long iconic pier to stroll or cast a fishing line. Or simply enjoy its restaurants, gift shops, and live music entertainment The possibilities are endless at this family friendly beach near Orlando! A visit to the Kennedy Space Center just a half-hour drive away will make your trip truly memorable!
Daytona Beach – Volusia County
Anchored by 23 miles of hard-packed, white sand, this beautiful coastline located on the east coast of Central Florida is perfect to recharge your batteries. Boasting some of the best dive sites in Florida with its many artificial reefs and springs, scuba diving is a must. The regular swells and soft, sandy bottom at Daytona are also ideal to hone your surfing skills. If watersports are too pedestrian for you, consider a parasailing adventure.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Daytona International Speedway, home of the high-octane excitement of Daytona 500 car race. Then go for a drive on the beach, a thrill you can’t enjoy just anywhere.
The fact that you can have a bonfire on the beach makes Daytona one of the best party beaches in Florida! To do so, make sure it is not turtle nesting season and don’t forget to reserve a fire ring. You can also bring your own firepit – no permit is needed to do this, but you still need to follow to the rules.
Atlantic Beach – Duval County
It’s hard to resist the call of the soft, white sand at Atlantic Beach as it beckons you to plop down and unwind with a favorite beach read. Take a dip in the ocean, go surfing, or take a kayak out for a spin.
If you need a break from the beach, then you can hike or bike the scenic trails at the oceanfront Hanna Park. With its picnic areas and a kid’s splash park, it makes for a great family outing too.
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve serves up natural beauty and history in spades. One of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the Atlantic Coast, the preserve includes several historic sites that offer a unique look into the past.
There’s more! This seaside destination just east of Jacksonville allows open flame, including bonfires and charcoal or gas grills. However, they’re allowed only November through February, and you’ve to get a permit from COAB (City of Atlantic Beach) Recreation Office. It costs 25USD plus tax and there is a 2-day processing time, so plan your event accordingly!
Amelia Island
With sweeping vistas of the Atlantic, a pristine coastline framed by high, sea-oat-flecked dunes and charming historic downtown, the sights on this barrier island tucked just off Florida’s north-eastern coast will take your breath away. But that’s not all. There’s plenty to do here.
You can enjoy shark tooth hunting along its shores, collecting shells at Fernandina Beach, which is known as one of the best shelling beaches in Florida or experience the exhilaration of beachfront horseback riding at the Amelia Island State Park. You might even see dolphins from your vantage point! Paddle through the elaborate ecosystem and get up close and personal with the native wildlife. The oceanfront Main Beach Park with its playground, volleyball courts, and abundant facilities is great for a visit with the kids.
Best of all, Amelia Island beaches allow bonfires too seasonally during the winter and spring months (between November and April). Fires cannot be placed near the dunes and must be fully extinguished prior to leaving.
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