Private Beach Bonfire in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Imagine relaxing around a warm fire on the sands of Carmel Beach, the sound of crashing waves in the background, marshmallows roasting to perfection, and stars twinkling overhead. That’s essentially what the Private Beach Bonfire in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers—a charming, intimate experience designed for small groups looking for a memorable outdoor escape. This tour, offered by Carmel Boho Picnics, is a cozy 3-hour adventure that combines natural beauty, good company, and a touch of luxury.

What immediately stands out is how personalized this experience feels. It’s a private setup, accommodating up to six guests, making it perfect for couples, families, or small friend groups who want a relaxed, meaningful time without the crowds. We love how the setup includes everything you need—fire pit, cozy blankets, gourmet s’mores basket, and even a speaker for your playlist. The serene environment and thoughtful touches really elevate this from a typical beach outing.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the timing constraint on Carmel Beach, which only permits propane fires between 4 pm and 10 pm. For those seeking the rustic charm of a wood fire, Pebble Beach options are available upon request but come with an extra step in planning. This experience is best suited for those craving a laid-back, personalized evening with a focus on quality over quantity.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind with loved ones, this tour offers an authentic, relaxed way to enjoy Carmel’s beautiful coastline. Let’s break down what you can expect and how to make the most of this experience.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private setup for up to 6 guests, ensuring intimacy and flexibility.
• All-Inclusive Setup: Fire pit, fuel, blankets, speaker, gourmet s’mores basket, and wine opener provided.
• Timing & Location: Propane fires allowed on Carmel Beach from 4 pm-10 pm; wood fires available in Pebble Beach upon request.
• Dog & Kid Friendly: Carmel Beach is pet-friendly, making it a great outing for families with dogs.
• Optional Enhancements: Hot cocoa and charcuterie available on request, adding a gourmet touch.
• Approximate Cost: $525 per group, which offers a personalized experience with all essentials included.

The Experience Breakdown

Setting the Scene: Carmel Beach or Pebble Beach?

The tour begins at Carmel Boho Picnics, conveniently located at 22924 Scenic Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea. You’ll be greeted and given the details of your private setup, which is designed to keep things simple yet special. Carmel Beach typically hosts the bonfire, renowned for its soft sands and stunning coastal views. Remember, propane fires are only permitted here between 4 pm and 10 pm, making this ideal for an early evening or sunset experience.

For those craving a more traditional wood fire, arrangements can be made for bonfires in Pebble Beach. This might be worth considering if you’re seeking that rustic aroma and crackle of real flames. However, keep in mind that Pebble Beach options often require prior notice and may involve an additional cost or arrangement.

What’s Included

The setup provides everything you need for a cozy beachside gathering: a propane fire pit, fuel, chairs, plush blankets, a wine bottle opener, a portable speaker, and a gourmet s’mores basket. We particularly appreciated the thoughtfulness of the gourmet smores, which elevate the experience beyond a simple snack.

The Atmosphere

Once settled, you can customize your experience. Guests have raved about how the provided speaker allowed them to enjoy their favorite playlists, adding a personal touch to the ambiance. The blankets and chairs create a comfortable space to relax and socialize. The fire provides warmth and a focal point, while the sound of waves adds a soothing backdrop.

It’s worth noting that Carmel Beach is dog-friendly, so bringing along furry friends is no problem. However, accessibility might be an issue for some travelers—there are stairs (around 15) and a sand ramp to access the beach, which could be tricky for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns.

The Gourmet Smores & Add-ons

The gourmet smores basket is a highlight, with reviewers mentioning how delicious and well-presented it was. Plus, hot cocoa and charcuterie can be requested, giving this experience a more upscale feel. The inclusion of a wine bottle opener means you can bring along your favorite bottle, turning this into a relaxed wine and dessert evening.

Timing & Duration

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which is ample time to unwind, take photos, chat, and enjoy the sunset if you arrive early enough. The timing is flexible within the allowed hours, making it easy to plan around sunset or later in the evening.

Cost & Value

At $525 per group (up to 6 people), this experience offers a personal, all-inclusive package that’s perfect for small groups seeking intimacy. Considering the cost of similar private experiences, this is quite reasonable, especially when you factor in the quality of the setup, the gourmet food, and the flexibility of location and timing.

Authenticity & Unique Touches

While this isn’t a guided tour with interpretive elements, the personalized setup and the chance to craft your perfect beach evening make it stand out. Many reviewers appreciated the attention to detail and how the whole experience felt like a custom event rather than a generic rental.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating an anniversary, small family groups, or friends looking for a memorable night out. If you enjoy outdoor settings and appreciate gourmet touches, you’ll love the gourmet s’mores and optional charcuterie. It’s also perfect for dog owners wanting a pet-friendly activity with scenic views.

Practical Tips

• Book well in advance—most guests schedule their experience about 2-3 months ahead, especially if they want a weekend spot.
• Arrive a little early to settle in, especially if you want to catch sunset views.
• If you prefer a real wood fire, make sure to request this in advance.
• Bring along a favorite playlist to enhance the ambiance.
• Remember that the beach access includes stairs or a sand ramp, so pack accordingly if mobility is an issue.
• Consider adding hot cocoa or charcuterie as a way to elevate the experience further.

The Sum Up

The Private Beach Bonfire in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a wonderfully curated way to enjoy California’s stunning coastline in a highly personalized setting. Its all-inclusive package means you can relax without worrying about logistics—just bring your vibe, your favorite drinks, and your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want an intimate escape, this experience truly captures the magic of Carmel’s beaches.

While the cost might seem steep at first glance, the combination of exclusivity, quality provisions, and scenic location makes it a good value for those seeking a memorable and stress-free night by the sea. The availability of optional extras like hot cocoa and charcuterie ensures you can tailor the experience to your tastes, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

This bonfire tour is a charming, relaxed way to connect with loved ones amid breathtaking surroundings—perfect when you want a bit of luxury, a lot of nature, and plenty of good conversation.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children and dogs?
Yes, both children and dogs are welcome. Carmel Beach is pet-friendly, making this a great outing for families with pets.

How long does the bonfire last?
The experience lasts around 3 hours, giving you ample time to relax, enjoy snacks, and take in the scenery.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own wine or beverages. A wine bottle opener is provided, and you can request hot cocoa or charcuterie as add-ons.

What if I want a wood fire instead of propane?
Wood fires are available in Pebble Beach upon request. Make sure to specify this when booking, as it may require prior arrangements.

Is the beach accessible for everyone?
The beach can be accessed via stairs or a sand ramp. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so consider mobility needs when planning.

What is included in the price?
The package includes a propane fire pit, fuel, chairs, blankets, a speaker, gourmet s’mores basket, and a wine bottle opener. DInner is not included.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 64 days in advance, especially for weekends or peak seasons. Early booking helps secure your preferred date and time.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate beach experience with plenty of comfort and gourmet touches, this private bonfire is a lovely way to enjoy Carmel’s coast. It’s simple, charming, and genuinely suited for those who want a personalized night under the stars.