Things To Do
in Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach, located in Florida, is a popular resort town known for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It offers a wide range of water sports and recreational activities such as snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. The town is also home to vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs along the iconic Front Beach Road.
Visitors can enjoy family-friendly attractions like Gulf World Marine Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk on the soft white sands of the beach. Enjoy the morning sun and maybe grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café.
Spend your afternoon at the local amusement park, enjoying rides and games. Don't forget to try some classic beach food like hot dogs and funnel cakes.
As the sun sets, relax at one of the waterfront restaurants with a stunning view. Indulge in fresh seafood while listening to live music.
Get your adrenaline pumping with water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Rent your equipment at one of the local shops.
Take a guided boat tour to explore the nearby islands and look for dolphins. Bring your camera for some memorable photos of the beautiful scenery.
Wind down with a sunset cruise on the Gulf. Enjoy snacks and drinks while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters
- Diverse recreational activities, including water sports and fishing
- Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants
- Family-friendly attractions, such as amusement parks and aquariums
- Pleasant weather, especially during the summer months
- Easy access to nature parks and wildlife areas
- Crowded during peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and congestion
- Limited nightlife options for those seeking a quieter experience
- High humidity and temperatures in the summer can be uncomfortable
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during the Atlantic hurricane season
- Environmental concerns, such as beach erosion and pollution
- Some areas may lack sufficient public transportation options
Best Activities in Panama City Beach
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful sandy beaches of Panama City Beach and search for shells, sea glass, and other treasures along the shore.
Paddle through the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico or the calm bays to enjoy the stunning scenery and marine life.
Enjoy fishing from the beach, piers, or charter a boat for deep-sea fishing in the Gulf waters.
Discover the underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the clear waters, exploring coral reefs and marine habitats.
Bike along the dedicated bike paths that run parallel to the beach, taking in the beautiful views of the coastline.
Get a bird's-eye view of Panama City Beach by soaring high above the water while being harnessed to a parachute.
Explore the trails and enjoy the wildlife in this beautiful state park that offers a mix of forest and coastal habitats.
Try stand-up paddleboarding in calm waters, ideal for beginners and those wanting a fun workout on the water.
Take a relaxing sunset cruise to witness the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico.
Join a guided tour or go on your own to observe local wildlife, including dolphins, birds, and other marine animals.
Tours
Uncover the best of Panama City Beach with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Panama City Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the chance to photograph wildlife such as dolphins and shorebirds.
Offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a popular spot for sunset photography.
Accessible only by boat, this natural barrier island offers pristine beaches and unique wildlife, providing ample photo opportunities.
A great location for capturing nature and wildlife, including swamps, pine flatwoods, and a variety of bird species.
Food in Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential dish in Panama City Beach, the grouper sandwich features fresh grouper fillets served between slices of bread, often with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. Head to local seafood shacks like Hook'd Pier Bar & Grill or Bayou Bill's Crab House to savor this local favorite.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the tangy and sweet flavors of Key lime pie, a beloved dessert in the region. Visit popular spots like Uncle Ernie's Bayfront Grill or Dee's Hang Out for a delightful slice of this iconic treat.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Panama City Beach better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Grand Lagoon Waterfront Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. Enjoy street food from food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, creating a delightful feast for the senses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When at the beach, it's important to respect the personal space of others. Avoid setting up your towels or umbrellas too close to someone else's setup, and always clean up after yourself to help keep the beach environment pleasant for everyone.
Panama City Beach has a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Swimwear is appropriate for the beach, but when visiting restaurants or shops, consider wearing cover-ups or casual clothing to show respect for the local culture and dining standards.
Residents and visitors alike appreciate friendly interactions. A simple 'hello' or a smile can go a long way. Being polite and courteous to those around you helps create a welcoming environment.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Panama City Beach with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Panama City Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In Panama City Beach, it is customary to tip service workers such as restaurant staff, bartenders, and hotel employees. The standard tipping rate is generally between 15% to 20% of the total bill. For exceptional service, tips can be higher. In bars, rounding up the bill or tipping $1 to $2 per drink is common.
Payment practices in Panama City Beach typically include the use of credit and debit cards, which are widely accepted. Cash is also used, particularly for smaller vendors and tips. Many establishments may add a service charge for larger groups, so it's advisable to check the bill before applying a tip.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Panama City Beach.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Panama City Beach with warm temperatures, moderate crowds, and various spring events and festivals.
Peak tourist season with hot temperatures, crowded beaches, and vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities.
Quieter time to visit with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and opportunities for fishing and fall events.
Mild winter weather, lower accommodation rates, and opportunities for bird watching and indoor attractions.
Panama City Beach at Night
Hiking in Panama City Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful state park offering various hiking trails along with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Situated on the border of Bay and Walton counties, this park features scenic trails that meander through diverse ecosystems including coastal dunes and wetlands.
A natural area with numerous trails ideal for hiking, kayaking, and observing wildlife in the rich, diverse environments around Econfina Creek.
A 19-mile paved trail that runs along Scenic Highway 30A, ideal for walking, jogging, and biking while enjoying lovely coastal views.
A short trail leading through a forested area, offering a peaceful nature escape and a chance to see various animal habitats.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Panama City Beach through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Panama City Beach by plane.
Located approximately 17 miles northwest of Panama City Beach, ECP serves as the primary airport for the area, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 82 miles west of Panama City Beach, PNS handles a variety of domestic flights as well as some international routes.
Located about 100 miles east of Panama City Beach, TLH primarily serves domestic flights, connecting the region with major U.S. cities.
Approximately 47 miles west of Panama City Beach, VPS offers a range of domestic flights and is a key airport for tourists heading to the Emerald Coast.
Located around 190 miles northeast of Panama City Beach, JAX is a major airport serving the Jacksonville area and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Panama City Beach, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group that includes individuals of various backgrounds, primarily from Latin American countries.
A smaller yet notable demographic in Panama City Beach, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A minority group in Panama City Beach, representing various Asian nationalities and cultures.
Individuals identifying with multiple races, reflecting the increasing diversity in the area.
Includes Native American, Pacific Islander, and other ethnicities not specifically categorized.
The Soul of Panama City Beach
Discover the essence of Panama City Beach through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport played on the sandy beaches, with tournaments and casual games frequently held.
With favorable waves, surfing is a common activity for locals and tourists alike in Panama City Beach.
Both deep-sea and shore fishing are popular due to the plentiful marine life in the Gulf of Mexico.
A thrilling water sport that allows participants to explore the beautiful coastline at high speed.
Popular for exploring underwater reefs and wrecks, offering a unique experience in the rich marine environment.
An enjoyable way to explore the coastal waterways and bayous, often seen as a family-friendly activity.
Gaining popularity for its accessibility and the chance to enjoy the scenic views while gliding over the water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panama City Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors with vegetarian or vegan preferences can explore restaurants like Liza's Kitchen and Lotus Cafe, which offer dedicated menus with a variety of plant-based options, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Travelers with gluten-free dietary needs can find accommodating menus at places like Firefly and Saltwater Grill, providing a range of delectable gluten-free dishes amidst elegant settings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Panama City Beach with these cultural adventures.
