Unlike its bonfire-friendly neighbor to the north, South Carolina has some pretty strict laws prohibiting fires on its beaches. That doesn’t mean your vacation will be without, though, because we’ve found five beaches on the South Carolina coast that allow visitors and residents alike to have bonfires. Check out the beaches below and make sure to get the right permit before building your perfect bonfire.
Have A Bonfire In South Carolina At These 5 Beaches
5. Sullivan’s Island
Photo: Alistair Nicol/Flickr
Located just across the water from Fort Sumter National Monument, Sullivan’s Island is an idyllic place to have a summer bonfire. You’ll need a permit, which you can get at town hall. The permit is free for both residents and non-residents of Sullivan Island, but a security deposit is required which costs $250 for residents and $500 for non-residents. As long as you follow the rules and have a safe bonfire, you’re all set to get your security deposit back once you’re done.
Sullivan’s Island
4. Sullivan’s Island
Photo: Jim Pater/Flickr
This island, also classified as a state park, provides visitors with campgrounds, hiking trails, and beautiful views of the Atlantic. Bonfires are allowed only in campground rings, but with campsites being within walking distance of the shoreline, you’re sure to hear the waves crashing as you enjoy sitting by the fire with your friends and family. Campground prices range from $23-$25 and include shower facilities, RV hook ups, and simple tent-only sites.
Sullivan’s Island
3. Sullivan’s Island
Photo: valanzola.t/Flickr
About 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach lies Pawleys Island, a quaint getaway for those seeking something a less crowded. In fact, none of the commercial properties or restaurants are located on the island itself. You’ll need to make a stop at town hall to obtain a permit for a fire pit on the beach, but after that, you’re all set to relax by the fire and eat some s’mores!
Sullivan’s Island
2. Sullivan’s Island
Photo: chucka_nc/Flickr
Just south of Charleston, Seabrook Island is a barrier island that allows for beach bonfires. Rules for beachgoers who want a bonfire include: fires must be attended to by an adult, fires may not be in the dunes, and must be extinguished by 10pm. Since this can be a rather early end to an evening for some, start your bonfire early and get the most out of it before you need to put the lights out on it. Remember to clean up after your fire and avoid making your bonfire within 50 feet of marked turtle’s nests. Most importantly, make sure you get a permit or you’ll have some explaining to do when officers do their rounds.
Sullivan’s Island
1. Sullivan’s Island
Photo: Alistair Nicol/Flickr
Although you’ll need a boat to get out to Capers Island, what’s more fun than having a private bonfire on an island not many people will be on? In order to have your bonfire, you must camp overnight on the island. Included with your campsite is the allowance of a small bonfire. Imagine your tent set up, the fire crackling, and the waves lightly lapping up against the shoreline. You really can’t beat the atmosphere!
Sullivan’s Island
This article was written by Julianne Aiello.