No campfire is complete without some games to keep your company laughing, and when conversation starts to simmer, whip out your fold-up checkers set (you planned for this moment), throw Frisbees along the crashing waves, or play a round of telephone after the age-old classic charades. With a set-up this cozy you may even be tempted to sleep in the sand. Attire? Simply complete the summer vibe by throwing a sweatshirt over your bathing suit. And when the sea breeze picks up and the warm rays are exchanged for moonlight, you’ll want to be able to wrap yourself up like a human burrito no matter how big the fire is. Whatever theme you choose for decor, make sure to bring ALL the blankets, no one’s ever complained about being too cozy. Grab those bohemian tapestries from Pier 1 Imports in Newport Coast – thick beach towels or thin bamboo mats, the aesthetic choice is yours. Whether it’s towels in the sand or foldable canvas camping stools get creative! Nobody likes lounging without any support.

In order to ensure a good time, the second essential step is to stage your space! Make sure the sand around the fire pit is anything but dull as you set the scene for a long transition from a day of play to a balmy evening under the stars. A side note: fire pits are demarcated for wood-use and charcoal-use only so make sure you know which fuel you’ll be using before you swing by the store. So, before you plan the most amazing bonfire gathering the county’s ever seen, make sure you procure the most pivotal element – the fire. When in doubt – make a day of it! Park your stuff at the pits, tan in the sun, hop in the waves, repeat. It’s first-come, first-served and people claim bonfires early in the morning and stay there until late in the evening. may sound a little early, take a local’s advice and get there as soon as you can, especially during the summer months. Bonfires on Big Corona and Balboa Beach are available 6 a.m.

Corona del mar beach bonfire