If you are traveling to the California Coast from an inland destination, chances are that you have never experienced a bonfire on the beach. What a great and unique experience and one of the best ways to remember a trip to Monterey County. Although Southern California seems to get all of the press on great beach destinations, the Monterey Peninsula has some of the finest beaches and they are largely uncrowded. 

If you are coming to the Monterey Bay area as a couple, you can settle down on the sand with a comfy blanket and roaring bonfire and enjoy a little picnic while watching the sunset. As a family, it is a great "bonding" activity of telling stories, playing beach games and roasting s'mores during the day or just after dinner to watch the sunset. 

Bonfires are legal in the following locations: Carmel Beach south of 10th Avenue, Bird and Seal Rock beaches at Pebble Beach, and Asilomar, Monterey and Carmel State Beaches. The bonfires must be "warming fires" no larger than two feet by two feet by two feet, and are only allowed until 10pm. Pallets are not allowed as part of a bonfire, as the nails left behind may injure other beach visitors. Glass bottles are not allowed on the beach, for the same reason. Though you will often see bonfires on Monterey's beaches, the city of Monterey explicitly states that no bonfires are allowed on city of Monterey beaches. Check whether you're on a city or state beach before building your fire!

If you prefer to hire someone to build your bonfire for you, Romantic Room Designs will set the whole thing up so you don't have to worry about buying wood, building a fire etc.. Although they specialize in romantic bonfires for two (they have a great surprise proposal package), they also can customize a bonfire for the family. Carmel has the best sand and view of the sunset.

Keep in mind that the weather is best in September - mid November. Evenings can get a bit chilly so if you do a bonfire just make sure to bring a light/moderate weight jacket with you.  The next best weather months are from May - August. Even during the winter months, temperatures rarely fall below 50 degrees - a great time to snuggle together.