Muir Beach Bonfire

Collect some wood, grab a few blankets and a guitar, and get to secluded, bonfire-friendly Muir Beach. Redwood Creek spills into the Pacific here, and rugged bluffs to the north and south protect the beach from any serious buffeting; the wide-open sands stretching past gentle breakers provide a dramatic seaside locale. Arrive early—at least a couple of hours before sunset—to snag one of the designated bonfire pits; then take your time roasting marshmallows and howlin' at the moon (and if it howls back, that's the coyotes singing along). At nine o'clock, park rangers will pay a visit, remind you that the beach is closing, and put out your fire. (Note: If there's no park ranger, make sure to put out your own.) In the event of untimely rain or fog, just scoot a minute down the road to the Pelican Inn. You can warm up by the fire in the classic Tudor-style pub, tip a few pints, and howl some more.

Pelican Inn, 10 Pacific Way, Muir Beach; (415) 383-6000.

Muir Beach closes about an hour after sunset (nine o'clock in the summer months). Directions: From Hwy. 101, take the Hwy. 1 exit and head north. Continue up the highway for 6 miles, and look for a sign marking the left turn for Muir Beach.