Chair & umbrella set ups

Question

Is there multiple rows of beach chairs & umbrellas in front of most condominium buildings even in September? I’m looking for someplace that only has 1 row at the max.

Answer

In Destin, Florida, the setup of beach chairs and umbrellas in front of condominium buildings can vary significantly depending on the property and the time of year. September is technically off-peak compared to the busy summer months, but it’s still a popular vacation period because of warm weather and fewer crowds than July or August.

Generally speaking, most larger condos and resorts will have multiple rows of rental chairs and umbrellas during the high season. By September, some properties scale back slightly, but it’s not uncommon to still see 2–3 rows in front of popular buildings, especially those directly on the beach. Smaller or more private condos, boutique resorts, and vacation rentals may only have a single row or none at all, giving a quieter beach experience.

If your goal is to avoid multiple rows of chairs and have a more open beach experience, you’ll want to focus on smaller properties or rentals that are known for a more private feel.

Smaller vacation rentals or boutique condos – Units away from large resort complexes often have only one row of chairs or let you bring your own setup. Check reviews and property descriptions to confirm.
Southside or less crowded areas of Destin – Beaches further from the main public areas like James Lee Park or near Holiday Isle can be quieter with minimal chair setups.
Private beach access rentals – Some rental properties provide direct beach access without a full commercial rental setup, meaning fewer chairs and umbrellas.

Tips to maximize your chance of a less crowded beach:

Contact the property manager directly and ask specifically how many rows of chairs they maintain in September.
Consider booking a first-floor unit or one with direct Gulf access; these often have limited setups in front of the building.
Be prepared to arrive early in the day to secure a good spot, even if there’s only one row, as it can still fill up quickly in popular areas.

In summary, if you want only a single row of chairs and a quieter beach, focus on smaller condos, private rentals, and less trafficked parts of Destin, and confirm directly with the property. Larger resort buildings often maintain multiple rows, even in September, so they are less ideal for the setup you’re looking for.