Fun in Panama City Beach Year-Round: Your Ultimate Guide
Unmissable Activities in Panama City Beach, Florida: A Top 12 List
Panama City Beach isn't just known as a spring break spot. This dynamic city offers fun for all types of travelers, whether you're visiting with family, friends, or seeking a quiet, romantic escape. Plus, with 27 miles of stunning Gulf coast shoreline, you'll find some of Florida's most beautiful, popular beaches right here.
We've curated recommendations that are within Panama City Beach proper. Remember, Panama City, a residential area, is a separate entity worth discovering. Ready to explore? Here's our guide for different types of groups:
Panama City Beach For Families
Kick off with a Sunshiny Breakfast
Start your day with a scrumptious meal at Andy's Flour Power, a casual, kid-friendly breakfast and lunch spot adored by locals and tourists alike. Don't forget to grab a cinnamon roll or vibrant pistachio muffin from their delightful bakery case.
Make Memories at Pier Park
Imagine a mall merged with an amusement park and restaurant district, and it's all situated just off the beach. That's Pier Park in a nutshell! With attractions like laser tag, mini golf, the Skywheel, shopping from local stores and major retailers like Target, and family-friendly restaurants—from Five Guys to Margaritaville—you can easily spend an entire day here. Plus, catch a movie at the IMAX Grand Theater if it's a rainy day.
Spot Dolphins on a boat tour
Spend time out on the water and search for friendly dolphins with tour companies like Coastal Wildlife Adventures. You can even take a private sunset cruise or swim with these incredible creatures. For larger groups, the Sea Screamer, a 73-foot boat, is a thrilling option.
Discover St. Andrews State Park
While the main beach is family-friendly, it tends to get crowded. Instead, head to St. Andrews State Park, a pristine shorefront with over a mile of soft sand and shimmering turquoise water, away from hotels and buildings. The park offers picnic areas, a playground, nature trails, bathrooms, and a lagoon area with a shallow section perfect for young swimmers.
Panama City Beach for Girlfriend Get-togethers
Beach Time and Brunch
The stunning beaches here are a must-visit. Start your day with a waterfront brunch at Barefoot on the Beach or grab a cup of coffee and doughnuts at Thomas' Donut and Snack Shop to enjoy on the beach.
Discover Local Shops on the Decor By The Shore Trail
While Pier Park offers plenty of shopping, wander along the independently-owned stores specializing in home items on the Decor By The Shore Trail to find unique treasures and support local businesses.
Happy Hour on a Floating Tiki Bar
No vacation is complete without a cocktail, and Crusin' Tikis takes it to the next level by offering floating tiki bars for you and your friends to cruise around the Grand Lagoon, embellishing your drinks as you take in a gorgeous sunset or lounge on a sandbar.
Savor Local Seafood
With an abundance of fresh seafood caught locally, treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Saltwater Grill, known for its massive saltwater aquarium, exquisite dishes such as crab cakes and blackened snapper, and over-the-top seafood towers. Capt. Anderson's, voted a top seafood restaurant by our readers, offers stuffed Florida lobster and a menu of Greek-style dishes cooked over an open hearth, including Grouper Imperial.
Panama City Beach for a Romantic Weekend
Kayak among Nature at Camp Helen State Park
Experience the outdoors by renting a tandem kayak and paddling around the scenic Lake Powell, the largest coastal dune lake in the state. The nearby trails offer peaceful nature walks.
Pamper Yourselves at a Spa
Serenity Spa at Bluegreen's Bayside Resort offers couples massages and luxurious treatments, along with access to a sauna, whirlpool, eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation lounge. You can even buy a day pass to linger longer.
Watch Sunset at the Pier
Across from Pier Park is the beautiful Russell-Fields City Pier, an enchanting spot to catch the sunset. Stroll the 1,500-foot walkway and breathe in the breathtaking views of the sea and sky.
Indulge in a Special Dinner
Firefly is the go-to place in town for a special occasion or romantic dinner. With a magical ambiance at night, you'll feel like you're in a fairytale as you savor Gulf grouper, Australian rack of lamb, or a bone-in ribeye, accompanied by a couple's toast to a magical vacation.
For a weekend by the sea that's full of fun, romance, relaxation, and lasting memories, Panama City Beach offers the perfect escape.
- To elevate your home decor, visit the stores on the Decor By The Shore Trail in Panama City Beach, where you'll find unique treasures and support local businesses.
- Experience the serene beauty of Panama City Beach with a couple's massage at Serenity Spa at Bluegreen's Bayside Resort, offering access to a whirlpool, eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation lounge.
- For a romantic dinner, consider Firefly, known for its magical ambiance and to-die-for dishes like Gulf grouper, Australian rack of lamb, or bone-in ribeye, ideal for a special occasion or date night.
- For those seeking a tranquil beach escape, consider applying for the 12063103687abb49eb5dc29e321de2d8 credit line, allowing you to plan a stress-free trip to the stunning beaches of Panama City Beach, Florida.
- To create a memorable moment with your loved one, take a sunset kayak tour among nature at Camp Helen State Park, renting a tandem kayak to paddle around the picturesque Lake Powell and adore the breathtaking views.