How busy at Beach Access 49 along Oleander?

Question

Hi everyone! We're planning a family trip at the end of July and a rental house we're considering is right next door to the Beach Access 49 walkway on Oleander Drive. I've never been to PCB. How busy are these access points? Is the beach out front going to be particularly crowded? Will we have lots of people walking by our outdoor seating all day? It's not a deal-breaker, but it would be nice to know ahead of time.

Thanks for any advice you have.

Answer

Beach Access 49 along Oleander Drive in Panama City Beach is a fairly popular spot, especially during peak summer months like late July. The area is more residential compared to the main public beaches, so it tends to attract families staying in nearby rentals rather than large crowds from hotels or tourist hotspots.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

The beach right at Beach Access 49 can get moderately busy during mid-day on weekends, but it’s usually not as packed as the major access points near Pier Park.
Weekdays tend to be quieter, with mainly neighbors, rental guests, and locals using the access point.
You may have some foot traffic near your rental property, as families often walk to and from the beach, but it is typically manageable and not continuous.
The water and sand area is wide, so even when a few families are present, there’s plenty of space to spread out without feeling crowded.

Additional considerations:

Parking near Access 49 can be limited if more than a few families show up at the same time, so having private or nearby rental parking is advantageous.
The residential street means there is occasional street traffic, but nothing like the heavily trafficked tourist areas.
If you prefer very quiet times, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for visiting the beach.

Overall, Access 49 offers a nice balance between convenience and a more private beach experience. You’re likely to see a few families walking by, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming or disrupt your outdoor seating enjoyment.