Bonfires Are in My Blood! Plus Where to Go in Charleston to Build Your Own Beach Bonfires

A beach bonfire in Charleston is always fun, although they can’t match the glory of the bonfires my family set on our land on Johns Island as we were clearing it.¹ Here’s my brother and sister on the left, and I’m on the right, in front of one of those family bonfires. We certainly couldn’t toast marshmallows around this one²:

But back to beach bonfires! Here’s where to go, along with the rules and numbers to know before you light up:

1. Folly Beach

Folly Beach is one of the most popular spots for beach bonfires in Charleston, and for good reason. The wide sandy beach, scenic views, and laid-back atmosphere make it ideal for gathering around a fire. To have a bonfire here, you’ll need a permit, which can be obtained from the Folly Beach City Hall.

Rules:

Bonfires are allowed from October through March (no summer bonfires).
You must have a permit, which costs around $25.
Fires must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter.
Fires must be at least 25 feet from any dune or structure.
The fire must be extinguished before leaving.
Only wood or charcoal is allowed (no plastic or treated wood).

Contact:
Folly Beach City Hall: (843) 588-2447
Website: Folly Beach City

2. Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms offers a beautiful stretch of beach for those looking to enjoy a cozy bonfire by the sea. Similar to Folly, you’ll need a permit for a bonfire here. The island’s relaxed vibe makes it a great spot for families or groups of friends looking for a memorable evening by the fire.

Rules:

Fires should be at least 25 feet from vegetation and structures.
Bonfires must be kept within a 3-foot diameter.
Permits are required and are available through the Isle of Palms Public Safety Department.
The fire must be completely extinguished before leaving.
Only clean wood or charcoal is permitted.

Contact:
Isle of Palms Public Safety: (843) 886-6522
Website: Isle of Palms Government

3. Kiawah Island

For a more secluded experience, Kiawah Island offers an idyllic location for a bonfire. The island’s pristine beaches provide a peaceful setting for a fire, though access is typically limited to residents and guests of the resort.

Rules:

Bonfires are allowed with a permit from the Kiawah Island Resort.
Fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter.
All fires must be at least 50 feet away from vegetation or structures.
Clean wood only is allowed (no treated wood or trash).
Bonfires must be extinguished before leaving.

Contact:
Kiawah Island Resort: (800) 654-2924
Website: Kiawah Island Resort

4. Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island offers a quieter, more private beach experience for your bonfire. Like the other beaches, a permit is required, but this beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, intimate gathering around the fire.

Rules:

You’ll need a permit from the Seabrook Island Public Safety Department.
Bonfires must be kept small (3-foot diameter maximum).
Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structures or vegetation.
Only wood or charcoal is allowed for burning.
The fire must be completely extinguished when leaving.

Contact:
Seabrook Island Public Safety: (843) 768-9147
Website: Seabrook Island

5. Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is another fantastic spot for a beach bonfire, known for its stunning views and peaceful ambiance. The rules here are pretty similar to the other beaches, but you’ll need to check with the local authorities for specific permits and regulations.

Rules:

A permit is required for bonfires.
Fires must be no more than 3 feet in diameter.
Bonfires are only allowed on the beach, not on dunes or near vegetation.
Only wood or charcoal is allowed for burning.
All bonfires must be extinguished before leaving.

Contact:
Sullivan’s Island Town Hall: (843) 883-5744
Website: Sullivan’s Island

General Bonfire Rules to Keep in Mind:

All fires must be attended at all times.
You are responsible for cleaning up the area after your bonfire.
Never leave your fire unattended.
Fires must be fully extinguished before leaving the area—use water and sand to ensure it’s out.

Whether you’re planning a big party or a quiet night under the stars, Charleston’s beaches are the perfect place to make memories around a bonfire. Just make sure to get your permit and follow the rules, and you’ll be all set for a memorable evening by the water!

Beach bonfire photo by Michał Mancewicz on Unsplash

Dad always had to call the Fire Department to let them know. ↩︎
There’s a ton of lumber in this family bonfire from the old farmhouse we had to pull down when we bought the property. It was over a hundred years old and had been vandalized beyond repair. So we saved out as many of the beams and bricks as we could and put them in the house Dad built for us. ↩︎