Coastal Camping Legality: Where You Can and Can't Camp by the Sea

When it comes to coastal camping legality, the rules around sleeping on or near beaches are strict, inconsistent, and often misunderstood. Also known as beach camping rules, these laws determine whether you can pitch a tent, sleep in your car, or just lie under the stars with a view of the ocean—without getting fined or kicked off. It’s not just about being quiet or leaving no trace. In many places, it’s outright illegal—even if no one seems to care.

Take the UK, where wild camping is mostly banned in England and Wales, but allowed in parts of Scotland under The Countryside Code. Also known as wild camping UK, this distinction matters because what’s legal in the Highlands might land you a £100 fine on the south coast. Meanwhile, in California, some beaches let you sleep in your car overnight, but only if you’re parked in a designated lot with a permit. Other spots ban it completely, even if you’re just resting after a long drive. And don’t assume that just because you see tents or cars parked at dawn, it’s okay. Many people get caught because they assume silence equals permission.

It’s not just about tents and cars. beach camping laws also cover things like fires, alcohol, trash, and even collecting sand. In North Carolina, taking even a handful of sand is a violation. In Michigan, drinking on the beach can get you cited. These aren’t just suggestions—they’re enforced rules, often with steep penalties. The real issue? Most travelers don’t check local ordinances before they go. They assume if it’s public land, they can use it freely. That’s not how it works.

Even within countries, rules change by county, city, or even beach name. A spot that allows overnight stays one year might shut down the next due to erosion, wildlife protection, or noise complaints. That’s why relying on old blogs or Instagram posts is risky. What worked in 2022 might get you arrested in 2025. The safest approach? Always check official sources—county websites, park services, or local police. No one will give you a warning if you’re caught breaking the rules.

And yet, people still do it. Why? Because coastal camping feels like freedom. The sound of waves, the smell of salt, the quiet under the stars—it’s hard to beat. But that freedom comes with responsibility. Knowing the law doesn’t ruin the experience. It protects it. It keeps beaches open for everyone, including future trips. The posts below break down exactly where you can camp legally, what the penalties are, and how to plan a beachside stay without risking your trip.

Below, you’ll find real stories and rules from places like California, Michigan, North Carolina, and the UK—each with clear details on what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to stay out of trouble. Whether you’re thinking about sleeping in your car, pitching a tent on the dunes, or just wondering if you can bring a beer to the shore, the answers are here. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what you need to know before you go.