How to Beat the Beach Crowds This Summer

There’s no denying it. Summertime along the Emerald Coast can be very busy. Today, we share tips to make your beach vacation more enjoyable even when the area is congested. Apply some of these pieces of advice to your trip itinerary and beat the crowds this summer! 


Eat dinner early.

Beating the crowd means you must be the first to arrive! We recommend eating an earlier-than-usual dinner to avoid long waits. In addition, we highly suggest making reservations for any evening meals that you plan on eating at local restaurants. If this isn’t ideal for you, book a condo that includes a full kitchen so that you are able to cook for your family and have dinner on your own time.  


Travel at off times.

If you do want to leave the beach, drive throughout the Emerald Coast when there are the fewest amount of people on the roads. Traveling first thing in the morning is best if you want to shop, grab a bite at a local eatery, or just soak up the sites. Also, weekdays are much less crowded than weekends.


Have patience.

If you are stuck in traffic, embrace the surroundings. Enjoy the scenery or pull off to a nearby attraction and check it out. The traffic can be frustrating, but having patience will make the situation much more bearable! If you are traveling with children, bring toys or entertainment with you to keep them occupied.


Book a condo with a central location.

Research what you want to do before you book your trip and find accommodations close to where you would like to spend most of your time. For example, The Inn at Crystal Beach not only has a restaurant and a bar on site, but it is also within walking distance to local restaurants, the white sand beaches, and the Destin Commons. Even if the place you choose is not within walking distance to attractions, restaurants, and shopping you’d like to go to, a shorter drive will make for a more enjoyable experience.  


Know the hidden gems.

If you want to spend your vacation on less-crowded white sand beaches, enjoy them at local state parks. These areas usually have fewer people than nearby beaches because a small fee is charged for entrance to the park. The fee is worth it to have more space to yourself and to have restrooms conveniently located nearby. Local state parks with beautiful beaches include Grayton Beach State Park, Henderson Beach State Park, and Gulf Islands National Seashore.


Get out on the water.

Rent a boat, kayak, paddleboard, or whatever water vessel you prefer to get away from the crowds on the beaches. This allows you to still soak up the sun, while not have to lounge with other families only a few feet away.

Published on Friday, June 14, 2019