Memorial Day was literally a wash-out, so tourism officials are counting on a big turnout for the Fourth to get back on track. Those "Vacancy" signs in front of beach hotels could soon be reading "No Vacancy." Lee Ann Leonard, GM of By the Sea Resorts, says, "We're already sold out at one of the three hotels and very few rooms away from selling out at the other two hotels."

Debbie Woodham, GM of the Holiday Terrace Motel, says "We plan on being completely full for the weekend and actually for the whole month." Panama City Beach businesses make 40% of their annual revenue in June and July. And the July 4 weekend plays a huge part.

Dan Rowe, Bay Co. TDC President, says, "We believe this weekend is going to be one of the biggest of the summer travel season." While local motels aren't sold-out across the board, Rowe says it's getting close. Some have dropped room rates to entice visitors. That full house will translate into tourists spending money and taking-in the Independence Day festivities. Rowe says, "They'll come here, eat out in the restaurants, spend money in our stores, and just really help drive our economy."

Unlike the Memorial Day weekend, a promising weather forecast could be the reason people are flocking to the beach. Leonard says, "I think that Memorial Day was a disappointment and bad for everyone's morale. This is sort of the boost that we need that people are still traveling, they are still going to come for those holiday weekends."

Early arrivals say they're gearing up for a big weekend. Alexis McGee-Watts from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, says, "Just enjoy the local people, and the beach, and hopefully see some fireworks while we're here."

Tourism officials hope their experience here will make them repeat customers. Thursday, NewsChannel 7 heard reports of bumper-to-bumper traffic along the Hathaway Bridge. That's a welcome sight for tourism officials, but not for drivers.