How to Avoid Crowds on Clearwater Beach Florida

As one of the more popular beaches in the world, Clearwater Beach can sometimes be an extremely crowded place. Fortunately, with just a few tips from a local resident, you can easily avoid the crowds and enjoy your day in the sun.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Swimsuit
• Suntan lotion
• Sunglasses
• Flip Flops or sandals

1. Start your day in the early morning. Most tourists don't make it to the beach until almost noon. By this time, the Florida sun is almost unbearable. Do your sunbathing between 8:30am and noon to avoid the crowds and the afternoon sun.

2. The public parking lots fill up quickly, which can make finding a parking space difficult. Getting an early start will almost ensure you a good space.

3. Avoid setting up camp directly in front of major hotels or Pier 60. These are high tourist areas and are always crowded.

4. Weekdays are always a better choice than weekends. Tuesday or Wednesday mornings offer a nearly deserted beach.

5. The area directly north of Pier 60 is used to set up rental cabanas. Given the extra cost, most tourists stay away from this area, leaving lots of open beach.

6. Avoid planning trips on holidays such as Easter, Labor Day or Memorial Day. As you might imagine, these are high season and are extremely busy times. As odd as it might seem, the summer months are considered the 'low' season because of the high temps.

Tips & Warnings

• Sunscreen in a must! The Florida sun can burn in as little as 15 minutes.
• There are lots of beach side restaurants that offer shade and good food.
• The concession stand at Pier 60 offers food, ice cream, bathrooms and various beach toys and necessities.
• Pay the extra fee to go all the way to the end of Pier 60. It's usually just fisherman and is less crowded.
• Don't park in hotel parking lots. They will have your car towed.
• The Florida sun can heat up the interior of your car to incredible temps. Don't leave anything that might melt inside your car.
• Don't walk on pavement, sidewalks or other paved areas without shoes. You WILL burn your feet.

Resources

• Clearwater Beach website

[soulmates]

on 8/16/2008 Great advice sometimes I feel like a sardine in a crowded beach.