Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

There are so many ways to enjoy the sand and surf of Grover Beach, but perhaps the most quintessentially Grover way is to spark up the beach bonfire. If you would like to capture those sunset memories and then warm your toes by the fire, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your step-by-step guide on what to drive, what to pack, and what to know for your Grover Beach bonfire.

Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

Yep, Grover Beach is one of the few beaches in California where your car is allowed on the actual sand. What kind of car do you need to drive on the beach? Excellent question. Ideally, your vehicle should have all-wheel drive. That said, all street-legal vehicles are allowed onto the sand at your own risk. If you don’t have AWD, stay on the hard-packed sand to avoid getting stuck and needing a tow. Drive to the beach entrance at the west end of Grand Avenue and check in at the State Parks kiosk. It’s $10 per vehicle for a single day use pass.

Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

Of all the spots on the Central Coast, Grover Beach and our neighboring Oceano Dunes are known for their unpretentious, chill vibes. This is a place where you are truly welcome to let loose and have some fun. That said, there are a few written and unwritten rules to abide by: The speed limit when driving on the beach is 15 mph. There will be kids and pets around. Be careful in your big truck, OK? Fires must be no more “than three feet in diameter and two feet in height,” according to California State Parks. Use clean wood only. Do not bring old pallets full of nails, furniture or any treated/painted wood out here. The ultimate rule: Be cool. Grover Beach may be low-key, but she appreciates a respectful guest. Give neighbors some space, don’t crank your music too loud, and keep things on the up and up.

Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

One of the best parts about driving on the beach is that you can bring all your gear with ease! Here’s what you need to pack for the perfect beach bonfire: Essentials: Firewood Matches or lighters Layers for warmth Seating like camp chairs or blankets Trash bag Bonus Fun: Snacks, s’mores supplies and other food Drinks of your choice A camp shovel to dig out a nice hole for your fire Music from a speaker or acoustic guitar Beach toys or a frisbee Towels if your kids wanna get wet (brr!) Glow sticks or other light-up accessories for the kids

Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

Once the fire’s going, it’s just you, the stars and the sound of the waves doing their thing. Tell a few stories, toast a few marshmallows, maybe share a blanket with your dog or your crush. No schedule, no shoes, no problem.

Grover Beach

Grover Beach, California, United States

Once you’re all thoroughly filled with magical memories (and marshmallows), it’s time to pack everything up. Grab your trash bag and get the whole family involved in making sure you leave no scraps behind. Important step here: Extinguish your fire completely, and DO NOT bury it. Although dousing your fire with sand is a great way to put it out, you do not want to completely bury hot embers. They will stay warm under the sand and can lead to injuries for innocent walkers the next day.