Have A Bonfire on The Beach in Florida

Photo by Beach Bonfire by Clayton Holmes

Updated February 9, 2023. Bonfires and the beach just seem to go together. Read more to find out how to have an unforgettable (and legal) experience as the sun goes down your favorite Florida beaches. Official Florida county links below.

Are beach bonfires allowed in Florida?

Florida beach bonfires are a popular activity. There are many beaches that allow bonfires. It is a great way to spend time with friends, family, and loved ones. Florida beach bonfires are easy to organize on quite a few beaches. It is important to follow safety precautions, protect the wildlife (sea turtle nests), and understand Florida laws. Some beaches may have modified their rules after the 2022 hurricane season, so ALWAYS check with the beach authority before planning your bonfire on the beach.

Where to Have A Bonfire on the Beach

You may be thinking...isn't Florida hot enough? But what's better than a bonfire, some close friends and a sunset? Maybe add in a glass of wine or some spirits? There are quite a few beaches that allow bonfires in Florida. Some require permits, others require reservations. You can choose an Atlantic ocean beach, a Gulf coast beach or one in the Florida Panhandle along State Road 30A. Let’s explore where you can go to enjoy this timeless experience on the Florida coast.

Bonfire Packages Make It Easy

Bonfires at the beach 30A

​There are companies that will provide a complete bonfire experience with a package. So easy! They provide the beach permit, wood, fire pit setup and cleanup, S’mores and roasting sticks, plus other snacks. They may also bring blankets and pillows, beach chairs, and music. A fire pit attendant will make sure the entire experience is taken care of from start to finish. South Walton beaches in the Florida Panhandle have a variety of companies that provide beach bonfire packages. Although we have not used them, here are some companies listed on Highway 30A. This can be a great group, beach wedding or corporate event experience especially if they take care of the county permitting. Before your bonfire, you can enjoy the ocean or look for shells on the beach together.

DIY Bonfire on the Beach: check with officials first!

 Florida beach bonfires are a great way to spend time on the beach in an unforgettable way. The following beaches allow bonfires on the beach but there may be restrictions such as time of year, locations, equipment etc. Always check the official county website before taking action! 

List of Official Counties

• ​Stuart and Jensen Beach in Martin County (permit required). Click here for Martin County official site.
• Satellite Beach and Cocoa Beach in Brevard County (permit required). Click here for Brevard County official site.
• Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, and New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County (no permit necessary but check rules after 2022 hurricanes). Click here for Volusia County official site.
• Amelia Island Beaches but not city beaches such as Fernandina Beach. Click for more info about Nassau County, FL beach ordinance 2020-31. Learn more about city beach regulations at the city of Fernandina Beach website.
• Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Beach in Walton County (permit required). Click here for Walton County official site.
• Panama City Beach in Bay County (permit required). Click for official Bay County site.
• Cape San Blas in Gulf County: please contact the ​Gulf County Sherrif.

Clearwater Beach is part of Pinellas County along with St. Pete Beach. Bonfires are prohibited on all beaches in Pinellas County. Click here for official Pinellas site.

If allowed to have a beach bonfire, make sure that you have all the necessary ingredients for a safe and successful bonfire:

• Wood: Use unprocessed wood only. Do not use wood from old furniture or wood that has nails in it.
• Bonfire Ring or pit: Make a reservation in advance for a ring - it is free in Volusia County.
• Charcoal: For grilling on the beach if allowed.

A very important point is to dispose of your bonfire debris in the correct manner. If using charcoal to grill, beach visitors must take the charcoal with them and properly dispose of it OFF the beachfront. Charcoal cannot be disposed of in any beach trash containers. Do not put charcoal in the sand! Trash and wood that wasn't burned must also be removed.

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