Vacation Tips – How To Handle a Crowded Beach

This time of year, not only Panama City Beach, but many other beaches, can be very crowded with people wanting to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand.  I mean, why not, it’s why they’re vacationing at the beach, right?  That’s why you’re there and it’s what you’ve been waiting on for a long time, BEACH TIME!

When visiting a popular vacation area, it might be hard to find that perfect spot away from the crowds or even hard to find a place to put your chairs and umbrellas out.  There are some things you can do, however, that might make your beach time more enjoyable and a little bit less crowded.

Best Time of The Day To Avoid Crowds

• Early Morning: This can be the best time to enjoy a less crowded beach.  It’s quiet and serene and all you’ll hear are the sounds of the breaking waves and all that nature has to share with us.  You might end up having the beach all to yourself if you’re lucky.
• Late Afternoon/Early Evening: As those that have spent the better part of their day on the beach and they start to go back to their accommodations, you’ll find that the beach is relatively empty again.  This is the perfect time to witness beautiful skies, full of color, and maybe even a beautiful sunset.  To me, this is one of the most beautiful and peaceful times to be on the beach.

Plan A Good Time to Go When Beaches are Less Crowded

• Local Events/Holidays: Avoid busy times of the year, like spring break, holiday weekends, local festivals, concerts or events that are popular in the area you want to stay.  People tend to come in larger numbers during these times, so consider that when making your plans for your next beach vacation.
• Off-Peak Season: If there’s any way you can do it, plan your vacation during off-peak season. Not only will you avoid large crowds, as tourist numbers are lower during that time, you might enjoy milder weather. At Premium Beach Condos, we find that the best time to take advantage of fewer crowds, lower rates, and GREAT weather is May and September. Check out our website to see all of our beautiful properties and plan your next off-peak trip!
• Consult With Locals: You can also consult with local hotels or vacation rental managers for their advice on when it would be a good time for less crowded beaches.  They have some good insight and they can help you to plan your next vacation.
• Travel Blogs: Travel blogs that are specific to the area you are planning to take your vacation can be a huge help. They not only offer tips such as this blog, but they have a wealth of knowledge of other interests in the area, such as restaurants or “things to do”.  Check out our other blogs at Premium Beach Condos and you’ll find all kinds of interesting information that might help you plan your next trip to Panama City Beach.

Making Lemonade Out of Lemons

• Make Your Own Little Space: If you find that you’re still unable to avoid a crowded beach, you can make your own little piece of heaven.  Bring your chairs and portable umbrella and find a less busy spot on the beach away from the crowd.  Even bring your own snacks and drinks to create a picnic. When you’ve created your own space with comfortable seating, delicious snacks, and cold drinks, it can make you feel as though the beach is less crowded.  Chairs are restricted in some areas, but since tents can be placed in front of or behind the beach chair services, don’t forget to be considerate of others while setting up and try not to block the view of others.
• Look Into Other Areas On The Beach:  Walk the shoreline and look around you.  You might just find a more secluded spot away from the crowds where you can set up camp and enjoy a less crowded space.
• Leave No Trace:  Be sure to check the ordinances when taking in umbrellas and/or tents while you’re at the beach.  The Leave No Trace ordinance in Bay County states that all personal items will be removed and disposed of if left on the beach between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. CST. These items include, but are not limited to, tents, chairs, toys, umbrellas and coolers. Please, be sure to leave only footprints in the sand!

Safety Is Priority

• Watch Those Belongings: If you’re setting up at the beach, try to choose a spot that is far from the waterline. Sand space that existed earlier in the day will be taken over by water as the tide comes up. That means your  belongings and valuables will get wet or, worse, be washed out with the tide.  Plan ahead and consider a waterproof bag of some sort to secure items (i.e. cell phones, cameras) that can be damaged by water.
• Watch Your Surroundings: Even in the most beautiful place in the world, you should always be aware of those around you. Large crowds can often pose a threat if they get unruly and rowdy. Make sure you don’t leave valuables in plain sight, you just never know who might be interested in borrowing them. Of course, keep an eye on the youngin’s also, as they could get lost in a crowd very quickly on a crowded beach.
• Stay Hydrated: I know this has nothing to do with crowded beaches, but it’s an important tip that I wanted to share as a reminder. Even if you have the best intentions, dehydration can occur, especially if you’re having fun in the sun and surf.  Some signs to look for to know if you’re dehydrated are:  Thirst, flushed skin, headache, fatigue, increased body temperature, weakness, and dizziness.  If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, drink a few bottles of water (or some of the lemonade you made out of lemons) and get out of the sun and heat.

If you’re looking for a vacation rental and would like to take advantage of the off-season months and less crowded beaches, we’re here to help at Premium Beach Condos. The sunsets are spectacular any time of the year!!