Okay folks, so last month I got fed up showing up at Ben Bay Beach with elbow-to-elbow crowds ruining the vibe. Grabbed my sunscreen and stubbornness, decided to figure out when this place actually empties out. Here’s how I cracked it:
The Early Bird Shuffle
Woke up at stupid o’clock last Tuesday – like 5:30 AM kinda stupid. Dragged myself there by 6 AM. Parked RIGHT by the sand entrance – no circling for spots. Water looked crazy calm, just a couple photographers and some yoga folks doing downward dog. Had the whole left side of the bay to myself for nearly two hours. Major win.
But hey, not everyone wants sunrise. Tried again around “normal people” time – rocked up at 9:45 AM. Mistake. Tour buses were unloading like ants on sugar. Had to park halfway down the road. Sand was already crunchy with towels.
Lunchtime Gamble
Next attempt: Wednesday at 12:30 PM. Figured maybe beachgoers leave for lunch? Nope. Crowd just shifted. Families under umbrellas, teens blasting music. Felt like a mall parking lot. Water was warm though – small win. Choked down my sandwich while dodging frisbees.
Golden Hour Magic
Persisted. Took Friday off work just for science. Rolled in at 4:15 PM. Magic. Sun wasn’t murder-level hot anymore. Half the crowd vanished – families packing minivans, tour groups herded onto buses. Stayed till 6 PM. Water still warm, space to spread my towel, zero queue for the outdoor showers. Perfection.
The Weekend Showdown
Had to test Saturdays. Big nope. Went three weekends straight:
- 10 AM Saturday: Pure chaos. Couldn’t even see the sand between towels.
- 2 PM Sunday: Worse. Parking attendants laughed when I asked about spots.
- 5:30 PM Sunday: Cleared out decently! But sharks were feeding near shore (lifeguard yelled everyone out). Wildcard.
Final verdict? Weekdays rule. Pack your coffee for sunrises or chill for late afternoons. If weekends are your only shot? Go late Sunday or pray for rain.
Been doing weekdays at 4 PM since. Brings back that secret-local feeling. Now shhh – don’t blow up my quiet spot.
