Every summer, visitors head to Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches to soak up the sunshine and play in the warm Gulf waters. But when temperatures rise, a little planning can make all the difference between a relaxing beach day and an uncomfortably hot one. Whether you’re lounging by the shore, taking a swim, or exploring the coastline near our Indian Rocks Beach vacation rentals, Plumlee Gulf Beach Realty is here to help you stay comfortable all season long. From staying hydrated to choosing the best time to hit the sand, here are five simple ways to stay cool at the beach this summer:
Time Your Beach Visit
One of the easiest ways to stay comfortable at the beach is to plan your visit during the cooler parts of the day. Afternoon temperatures along Florida’s Gulf Coast can become intense, so we recommend visiting in the morning or early evening for a more enjoyable experience.
- Early Morning: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM (Best for Relaxation & Shelling): The sand is still cool, the Gulf waters are calm and refreshing, and the beach is relatively uncrowded.
- Evening / Sunset: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Best for Views & Cooler Weather): By this time, the blazing afternoon sun has dipped, the air begins to cool down slightly, and you get to experience Florida’s famous vibrant sunsets.
2. Find a Shady Spot
No matter what time you head to the beach, you will need some shade to stay cool. There are a few natural shade areas along the region’s beaches, but we recommend bringing an umbrella or cabana to create your own shade. Bring your own equipment or rent an umbrella for the duration of your stay using our Plumlee Perks. These exclusive guest perks make it easy and convenient to rent everything you need for a comfortable, stress-free beach day. Plus, save by renting for your entire stay, instead of daily from other companies.
Umbrellas, beach chairs, carts, and towels can be rented and picked up at our Rental Office at 411 2nd St, Indian Rocks Beach, FL.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is the most important element of staying cool. The heat can make you lose fluid faster, so we recommend packing more water than usual and drinking it frequently. It not only helps you stay cool, but it also reduces your risk of dehydration. Bring a cooler with ice water to the beach, along with any other snacks or drinks you want for the day. Plumlee also has beach cart rentals available if you need an easy way to bring all your items down to the beach.
4. Use the Water to Stay Cool
You’re at the beach, so the best way to stay cool is simply jumping in the water. Even though the Gulf is known for its warm summer temperatures, it’s still refreshing and cooler than the air temperature. Spend time swimming with the family or cool off while enjoying exciting water activities like boating, surfing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. Staying active in and around the water is a fun and easy way to stay comfortable during your beach day.
5. Bring Cooling Gear
Packing the right beach gear can make a big difference in staying cool in the summer heat. Wear lightweight clothing over your swimsuit, or consider UPF-rated shirts or cover-ups for extra protection. A wide-brimmed hat is another great item that will give you some extra shade around your face and neck. You can also bring items like spray bottles and handheld fans for instant cooling relief.
Stay Cool in Your Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Rental
Stay in one of our Gulf-front vacation rentals and enjoy easy access to the Florida Gulf Coast beaches this summer. Take a break from the heat by returning to your rental to relax in the air conditioning, prepare meals together, or unwind while taking in the views from your private balcony. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of staying near the beach and access to our Plumlee Perks. Book with us today and find the perfect destination for your Florida beach vacation!
