Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida: The Ultimate Guide

Panama City Beach (PCB) is one of Florida’s hidden gems. Situated on the Panhandle, this coastal city boasts 27 miles of soft, white sand beaches and clear, warm Gulf waters. Over the years, PCB has transformed from a Spring Break party destination to a family-friendly spot. While it still draws a younger crowd during spring, it’s now equally popular with families, couples, and nature lovers. If you’re searching for a laid-back beach destination with plenty to do, Panama City Beach might be just what you need. This guide should help you make the most of your visit to Panama City Beach. Whether you’re there for a weekend or a week, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Panama City Beach to keep you entertained!

Getting to Panama City Beach is straightforward, especially with Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), just about 20 minutes from the beach. The airport is small, which is actually a good thing. Short lines at security mean less waiting time, and you’ll be out and on your way in no time. Just keep in mind that there aren’t many dining options at the airport, so plan to eat before you arrive or wait until you’re in town.

You can fly into ECP from major cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Nashville, and Houston. Once you land, you’ll want to rent a car to explore the area comfortably. Shuttle services and ride-shares are available, but having your own wheels gives you more freedom to see everything PCB has to offer. Parking is generally easy to find, especially around the beach areas and hotels.

When it comes to accommodations, Panama City Beach has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a beachfront stay, Hyatt Place Panama City Beach is a great option. It’s a newer hotel right on the beach, offering beautiful views from private balconies. You can enjoy the pool, hit the gym, or grab a drink at the bar while the sun sets over the ocean.

If traveling with family, you might prefer a condo or a vacation rental with a kitchen. Many beachfront condos offer pools and direct beach access, perfect for longer stays. Some other great places to stay include Holiday Inn Resort or Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort, which offers a bit more luxury with spa services and upscale dining. Click here for more information about places to stay in Panama City Beach.

If you want to explore more of the Florida coast, check our blog here. 

Panama City Beach is all about enjoying the great outdoors, and there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy.

Boat Trip to Shell Island

If you want to get out on the water, a boat trip to Shell Island is a must. You can book a private boat charter or hop on a tour to this uninhabited island, which is part of St. Andrew’s State Park. The boat ride itself is exciting—you might even spot dolphins along the way! Once there, you can snorkel, swim, or just relax on the pristine, uncrowded beaches.

Relaxing on the Beach

Of course, no trip to PCB is complete without spending time on its beautiful beaches. The sand is soft, and the water is perfect for swimming. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing day, or try parasailing if you’re up for some adventure.

St. Andrew’s State Park

This is a nature lover’s paradise. St. Andrew’s State Park offers hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and some of the most serene beaches in PCB. Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and even alligators (at a safe distance, of course!). It’s a great spot for camping or just spending the day outdoors.

Camp Helen State Park

Located on Lake Powell, Camp Helen is a peaceful retreat with kayaking, paddleboarding, and more hiking trails. The lake is one of the few coastal dune lakes in Florida, and it’s shallow, making it perfect for families with kids. You can spend a few hours paddling on the lake or walking the quiet nature trails.

SkyWheel

For a unique view of the beach, take a ride on the SkyWheel. This massive Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of PCB from 187 feet in the air. It’s a fun way to get a different perspective on the area, and the climate-controlled gondolas mean you can enjoy it year-round.

Read this blog for more fun things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida!

Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in PCB.

Movies at Pier Park

Head over to Pier Park for some retail therapy or catch a movie at the Grand IMAX theater. It’s a great place to spend a few hours shopping, dining, or just staying out of the rain.

Arcade at Pier Park

Pier Park also has a fun arcade where you can challenge friends and family to games. It’s a great spot for kids and adults alike to enjoy classic arcade games or test your skills at modern ones.

Top Golf (coming soon)

If you’re into golf or just looking for a fun activity, Top Golf is coming soon to PCB. It’s a fun and interactive driving range experience, perfect for families or groups of friends. Keep an eye on their opening date if you’re planning to visit soon!

Dolly Parton’s Pirate Adventure Dinner Show (coming soon)

Another exciting addition to Pier Park is Dolly Parton’s Pirate Adventure. This interactive dinner show is set to be a major attraction, combining entertainment and a great meal. It’s a perfect family activity that will be worth checking out when it opens.

One of the highlights of visiting Panama City Beach is the dining. The local restaurants are all about fresh seafood and casual beach vibes.

Local Eats

For a quick and casual bite, try Diego’s Burrito Factory. It’s a local favorite for build-your-own burritos and tacos. Another must-visit is Grand Marlin, a waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for BBQ, check out Salty Sue’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty portions of smoked meats and classic sides.

Beachfront Dining

For dining with a view, head to Schooners or Sharkey’s. Both are located right on the beach and offer seafood with a Gulf Coast twist. Runaway Island is another great spot, with panoramic views of the ocean and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sunset dinners.

The great thing about Panama City Beach is that it can be as relaxing or action-packed as you want. Here are a few ideas for different types of trips:

For Families: Spend a day at St. Andrew’s State Park, take the kids to the arcade at Pier Park, and don’t forget the sandcastle-building lessons with That Sandcastle Guy.

For Couples: Book a sunset cruise or enjoy a romantic dinner at Grand Marlin. Spend time on the beach, take a quiet hike at Camp Helen, and relax on the SkyWheel.

For Solo Travelers: Rent a bike to explore the beach, hit the hiking trails at St. Andrew’s, or join a group on a boat trip to Shell Island.

You can tailor your trip based on your interests, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.

Panama City Beach offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re coming for the pristine beaches, the diverse dining scene, or the natural beauty of the parks, PCB has something for everyone. It’s an ideal spot for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo retreat. With so much to do and see, you’ll leave PCB relaxed, refreshed, and already planning your next trip back.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo