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Panama City Beach Travel Itinerary Guide
Travel guide: It’s all here in Panama City Beach. — find out things to do, where to stay, when and where!`
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Panama City Beach
The city of Panama City Beach FL is vibrant and full of energy and is a favorite spring break beach in the United States. The best Florida beaches Panama City!
With its prime location on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach FL offers gorgeous white sand beaches overlooking the brilliant blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This sunny beach town is known for the nearly 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches in Panama City and emerald green waters, making it a top destination for water sports like boating, fishing, jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving to explore underwater shipwrecks and artificial reefs. Families flock to attractions like Shipwreck Island Waterpark, Race City Go-Karts, Cobra Adventure Park, and Gulf World Marine Park to swim with dolphins.
Others come for world-class golfing at Bay Point Golf Course, Hombre Golf Club, or Camp Creek Golf Club. Pier Park offers excellent shopping and dining, while thoroughly modern vacation homes and high rise condos dot the shoreline, providing luxury accommodations.
Nightlife seekers can let loose at Spinnaker Beach Club or Club La Vela. With its stunning scenery, family-friendly atmosphere, exciting attractions, and abundance of activities on land and sea, Panama City Beach has rightfully earned its reputation as a premier Florida vacation destination. Welcome to Panama City Beach Panama City Beach!
Here are some of the best Panama City beaches in Florida:
- Gulf World Marine Park Beach – This public beach adjacent to Gulf World Marine Park is popular for its white sands and calm waters. This may be the best beach in Panama City.
- St. Andrews State Park – At the east end of Panama City Beach, this state park offers nature trails, fishing piers, and a mile of quiet, pristine beach.
- Shell Island – Only accessible by boat, this undeveloped barrier island is known for excellent shelling, snorkeling, and fishing.
- Beaches of South Walton – Just east of Panama City Beach, these 15 miles of beaches include Grayton Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and others. These are some of the best beaches Panama City.
- Pier Park Beach – Located next to the lively Pier Park shops and restaurants, this beach has events and volleyball.
- Camp Helen State Park – On the western end, this state park has wetlands, trails, kayaking, and a peaceful beach.
- Shired Island Beach – A bit off the beaten path, this quieter beach is next to Conservation Park for hiking and nature viewing.
- Deer Point Lake – North of the main beach, this 4,000 acre lake is ringed by sandy shores for swimming and watersports.
With its prime location on the Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach offers stunning beaches of powdery white sand and remarkably clear emerald waters perfect for recreation and relaxation. These are our Florida beach Panama City recommendations.
where to stay in Panama City Beach?
Discover our top picks for Panama City Beach hotels, a collection of our favorite hotels in Panama City Beach that we’re excited to share with you. Each hotel in Panama City Beach has been handpicked for a unique reason – whether it’s lavish amenities or unbeatable locations.
Ready to plan your Panama City Beach vacation? Connect with our Panama City Beach travel agency and get in touch with a travel artist who’s brimming with expert Panama City Beach advice on making your journey truly memorable. Your dream vacation in Panama City Beach awaits – let our savvy luxury travel advisors in Panama City Beach be your guide to a memorable Panama City Beach vacation.
If you’re looking for something different, use our exclusive partnership with booking.com to book hotels in Panama City Beach on your own, or get in touch with us to handle all of your hotel bookings in Panama City Beach for you! We are a full-service travel agency here to ensure your Panama City Beach vacation is memorable!
Looking For Top Budget Friendly Hotels in Panama City Beach?
Here are top 3 budget hotels as per Budget Traveler’s Choice.
This family-friendly high-rise hotel offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and sugar-white sands from its outdoor pool, pool deck, and many of the spacious guest rooms. Guests enjoy free hot breakfast buffet daily, free high-speed wifi, use of the modern 24-hour fitness center, and accommodations equipped with mini-fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, and LCD TVs. It’s conveniently located near attractions like Gulf World Marine Park, Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and Pier Park shopping and dining.
Situated directly on the beach along the coast of the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this 27-story high-rise Radisson has an oceanfront pool, lazy river, sundeck, beachside tiki bar, on-site restaurant, and spacious rooms with private balconies to enjoy the spectacular views. Guests consistently rave about the friendly and welcoming staff at this Panama City Beach hotel, as well as the property’s central location near attractions like ZooWorld Zoological & Botanical Conservatory, Coconut Creek Family Fun Park, and Pier Park.
Offering affordable rates just steps from the beach, this charming retro motel in Panama City Beach provides a relaxed and nostalgic beach getaway. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and sundeck, free parking, and comfortable accommodations with new flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Suites have fully equipped kitchens. The location is convenient to area attractions like Shipwreck Island Waterpark, ZooWorld Zoological Park, and Pier Park shopping and dining. With its great location, amenities and old-fashioned hospitality, Summer Breeze Motel is a long-standing favorite for beach vacations.
Looking For Top Luxury Hotels in Panama City Beach?
Here are top 3 budget hotels as per Luxury Traveler’s Choice.
Wake up to postcard-worthy views of the Gulf of Mexico’s sparkling emerald waters and the white sand beaches of Panama City Beach from this modern beachfront hotel. Guests love relaxing by the outdoor pool and poolside tiki bar, as well as the free continental breakfast, free wifi access, 24-hour fitness center, and contemporary rooms appointed with plush Hyatt Grand Beds, 37-inch flat screen TVs, mini-fridges, and balconies. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
Situated on a pristine stretch of beach, this upscale resort offers elegantly appointed one- to three-bedroom beachfront condominiums, a lagoon-style pool with cascading waterfall, full service spa and salon, beachside Tiki Bar, and championship golf course. Guests enjoy breathtaking views of the emerald green waters.
Combining luxury with the natural beauty of Panama City Beach, this upscale Marriott vacation ownership resort sits on the coast of the St. Andrews Bay. Guests stay in beautifully appointed one and two bedroom villas featuring full kitchens, washer/dryers, and furnished balconies with stunning views of the bay or grounds. Onsite amenities include the circular infinity pool, poolside tiki bar, fitness center, kids activities program, and access to the adjacent Sheraton Bay Point Resort’s restaurants, spa, and Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. With its tranquil setting, upscale accommodations, onsite amenities, and nearby beach access, Marriott’s Legends Edge provides the perfect oceanside getaway.
where to eat in Panama City Beach?
Uncover the best restaurants in Panama City Beach. We have researched three of the best places to eat in Panama City Beach. These made our list for a number of reasons: they could have delicious food in Panama City Beach, be awesome Instagrammable restaurants in Panama City Beach, or be a high-end restaurant in Panama City Beach that can’t be missed!
Obviously, the culinary scene in Panama City Beach is second-to-none, and we can’t include all restaurants in this list so if you want other restaurant recommendations in Panama City Beach, contact one of our luxury travel artists (luxury travel advisors for Panama City Beach) to help plan your full vacation itinerary in Panama City Beach. We are a travel agency dedicated to providing memorable experiences in Panama City Beach.
Top three Restaurants in Panama City Beach: Journey Connected Expert’s Choice
This lively beachfront restaurant and bar has been a Panama City Beach institution since 1978, located right on the sugar-white sands next to Pier Park shopping and entertainment complex. Schooners is famous for its fresh local Gulf seafood like grilled shrimp, fried oysters, and seafood platters, as well as signature tropical drinks like the Last Mango in Paris and Bushwacker. Live music plays daily at the band stage over the sand dunes, with nightly beach bonfire parties at sunset. It’s a top choice for a fun, casual beach dining and drinking experience.
Situated in the historic St. Andrews neighborhood overlooking the Grand Lagoon marina, Firefly is a romantic fine dining spot known for its incredible sunsets. The menu features fresh pan-seared Gulf seafood like snapper and grouper, aged Black Angus steaks, and an extensive wine list with over 200 selections. Save room for homemade desserts like key lime pie and bread pudding. The cozy ambiance, waterfront views, and impeccable service make Firefly a special occasion destination. Reservations are recommended to secure outdoor patio seating.
Family-owned Andy’s Flour Power on Front Beach Road serves monster “yardbird” fried or grilled chicken sandwiches layered with slaw on house-baked buns, juicy half-pound Angus burgers, fresh entree salads, and sweet potato fries. There’s an extensive list of craft beers on tap, along with gluten-free and vegan options. Dine indoors or outside on the covered garden patio lined with twinkly lights. Andy’s laidback surf-inspired atmosphere and hearty comfort food makes it a must after a long day Panama City Beach.
what to see in Panama City Beach?
Discover our top picks for Panama City Beach attractions and activities, a curated selection of our favorite experiences in Panama City Beach that we’re excited to share with you. Each one has been carefully chosen for its unique charm, cultural significance, or fun activities in Panama City Beach. Ready to plan your Panama City Beach vacation? Connect with our experienced travel experts who are eager to plan your Panama City Beach vacation.
Your dream vacation in Panama City Beach awaits – let our savvy Panama City Beach travel advisors be your guide to a memorable Panama City Beach holiday. As a trusted Panama City Beach Travel Agency, we’re here for you! If you’re seeking something different, take advantage of our exclusive Panama City Beach partnerships to book attractions and activities in Panama City Beach independently, or simply get in touch with us, and we’ll handle all of your Panama City Beach itinerary planning for you! These are the top five things to do in Panama City Beach.
top things to do in Panama City Beach
Here are top three recommended activities by our travel experts
Panama City Beach, Florida
The Scream Machine is an exciting jet boat ride departing from Panama City Beach that zooms across the water at high speeds, making sharp 360-degree turns and nose dives that feel like a rollercoaster on the water. Riders can soak up the sun and get splashed by the surf as they zip past sights along the coastline. This thrilling boat ride is perfect for adventure seekers looking for an adrenaline rush. Multiple daily departure times are available to fit any schedule. The Scream Machine is best suited for older children and adults seeking a fun-filled day enjoying the sights and thrills of Panama City Beach from the water.
from $74.95
Panama City Beach, Florida
This private 7-hour sailing tour on a luxury 50-foot yacht accommodates up to 12 guests for a half or full day adventure. Guests can sunbathe on the bow and relax in the comfortable aft seating area, luxury salon, and indoor cabins. The tour sails through scenic Grand Lagoon spotting dolphins, stops for shallow water snorkeling to view marine life, and visits remote beaches. Guests enjoy complimentary beverages including soda, beer, water, and rum punch. This all-inclusive sailing excursion provides a private and luxurious way to experience Panama City Beach’s beautiful emerald coastline.
from $795.00
Panama City Beach, Florida
This 3-hour catamaran cruise departs Panama City Beach and sails to Shell Island, known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and wild dolphins. The spacious, stable catamaran deck offers a comfortable ride and has paddle boards, snorkel gear, and a waterslide for enjoying the island. Passengers can relax on the deck and watch for dolphins swimming in their natural habitat. A range of departure times are available for this family-friendly sailing and snorkeling adventure to Shell Island off the coast of Panama City Beach.
from $52.43
Panama City Beach, Florida
This 2-hour catamaran cruise departs in the evening and sails through the Grand Lagoon, past elegant coastal homes and St. Andrews State Park while passengers enjoy live music. The tour provides opportunities to see dolphins swimming and jumping in their natural habitat as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. Passengers can take in the beautiful sunset views, relax on the comfortable catamaran, and participate in games and dancing when the boat returns to the dock. This evening sailing tour combines scenic views, dolphin sightings, and entertainment.
from $52.43
Panama City Beach, Florida
This 2-hour beginner scuba diving experience in Lower Grand Lagoon is perfect for those who have never been underwater before. No prior experience or swimming skills are required. A PADI instructor leads small groups of friends or family through fundamental scuba skills and an introduction to the local marine environment. All necessary gear is provided including wetsuits, tanks, masks, and regulators. Complimentary GoPro photos and videos are included to document the experience. This tour offers a simple, safe way to try scuba diving for the first time and discover Panama City’s underwater world.
from $99.00
You can book these things to do in Panama City Beach from Journey Connected Travel Agency in Florida, browse all Viator Panama City Beach, Florida attractions, or let one of our travel planners take care of the booking for you!
Panama City Beach transportation
Whether you need a ride to the Panama City Beach airport or transportation after your flight, these are our recommendations for Panama City Beach airport shuttle service and airport cars that provide convenient and reliable ground transportation in Panama City Beach.
These Panama City Beach car services have drivers that will pick you and drive you directly to the airport terminal or hotel. These are the best Panama City Beach airport taxi and Uber services to get you to the airport in Panama City Beach on time with no stress. These Panama City Beach shuttle services and ‘transportation near me’ help avoid the hassle of parking and expensive parking fees; book these Panama City Beach airport shuttle service in advance.
Contact us today to schedule Panama City Beach airport shuttle near you and relax on your next trip or click the links below to book on your Panama City Beach airport transfers on your own.
plan a Panama City Beach vacation
Help Planning A Vacation to Panama City Beach With A Top Travel Agency
Journey Connected proudly presents a free three-day Panama City Beach travel guide, meticulously curated to showcase the finest attractions in Panama City Beach and the best Panama City Beach experiences. Unveil the magic of one of the world’s most visited cities, exploring top landmarks in Panama City Beach and delving into hidden gems. Indulge in the Panama City Beach culinary scene with recommendations for the best restaurants in Panama City Beach, enhancing your journey through this enchanting destination.
From Panama City Beach in the summer to the festive allure of Panama City Beach in the winter, this guide captures Panama City Beach seasonal delights. Embark on a seamless adventure in one of the best cities to visit in the world, leaving no top things to see and do in Panama City Beach unexplored. Your vacation to Panama City Beach awaits – an epitome of the best places to visit in the world.
Use our Panama City Beach travel guide or contact our luxury travel agency Panama City Beach, and let us plan your next Panama City Beach vacation! If you’re looking for a great weekend trip, visitors can drive Atlanta to Panama City Beach or from many other nearby cities for a fantastic weekend in Panama City Beach!
Download our travel guide for planning a trip to Panama City Beach.
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Elevate your next journey with expert vacation planning that turns every trip into an unforgettable adventure! Stop wasting time and money—trust our professionals to book your travel and create the perfect, personalized itinerary just for you.
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Panama City Beach travel blogs
Enjoy our Panama City Beach Travel Blogs Full of Panama City Beach Travel Information
Our Panama City Beach travel blogs offer insider tips, inspiring stories, and helpful Panama City Beach advice to make your next vacation in Panama City Beach the best one yet. Written by our team of passionate Panama City Beach travel experts, our blogs cover a range of information about traveling in Panama City Beach and must-do activities in Panama City Beach. You’ll discover new places to explore in Panama City Beach and learn insider secrets about old favorites.
Our travel writers and Panama City Beach travel advisors provide detailed Panama City Beach guides with Panama City Beach recommendations on where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to get around in Panama City Beach. Whether you are an expert on Panama City Beach or just starting to plan your vacation to Panama City Beach, let our travel guides and blogs be a partner to you. You’ll find engaging articles, beautiful Panama City Beach photos, and practical information in our collection of fun and informative travel blogs. Reading our Panama City Beach blogs is the next best thing to being there yourself!
When you’re ready to plan your Panama City Beach vacation, contact one of our expert Panama City Beach travel advisors and let Journey Connected travel agency provide you a custom Panama City Beach travel itinerary for your vacation!
Panama City Beach FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Panama City Beach
Three to four days in Panama City Beach (PCB) is typically enough to enjoy its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Here’s how you can make the most of your time:
Day 1: Beach and Relaxation
- Spend your day at the iconic Panama City Beach with its sugar-white sand and emerald waters.
- Enjoy a beachfront meal at a local seafood restaurant.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
- Visit St. Andrews State Park for snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking.
- Take a dolphin-watching tour or a boat trip to Shell Island.
Day 3: Local Attractions
- Explore Pier Park for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Visit family-friendly spots like Ripley’s Believe It or Not or WonderWorks.
- End the day with a sunset cruise.
Optional Day 4: Extra Exploration
- Enjoy water sports like paddleboarding or parasailing.
- Explore nearby towns like Seaside or the 30A coastal communities.
Journey Connected can help you book accommodations, activities, and create a personalized Panama City Beach itinerary tailored to your interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, our experts will make your trip seamless and unforgettable!
Yes, Panama City Beach (PCB) is absolutely worth visiting! Known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, PCB is a fantastic destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Here’s why it’s worth the trip:
1. Gorgeous Beaches
Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of stunning coastline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The clear, warm waters make it a prime spot for water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
2. Outdoor Adventures
The area is ideal for nature lovers, with opportunities for dolphin tours, deep-sea fishing, and exploring St. Andrews State Park or Shell Island. The Gulf waters are teeming with marine life, making it great for scuba diving and eco-tours.
3. Family-Friendly Attractions
PCB offers plenty of activities for all ages, including Pier Park, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, WonderWorks, and Gulf World Marine Park. Kids and adults alike will find something to enjoy.
4. Vibrant Nightlife
From beachfront bars to live music venues, PCB has a lively nightlife scene perfect for those looking to unwind after a day in the sun.
5. Affordability
PCB is a budget-friendly destination with a range of accommodations, dining options, and activities that make it accessible for travelers looking for value.
Journey Connected can help plan your trip to Panama City Beach, arranging everything from accommodations to custom itineraries. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or family fun, we’ll make your visit to PCB seamless and memorable!
Panama City Beach (PCB) can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, but the experience depends on when you visit and where you go. Here’s what to expect:
Peak Seasons
- Spring Break (March–April): PCB is a hotspot for spring breakers, so expect large crowds, lively nightlife, and a bustling atmosphere.
- Summer (June–August): Summer brings families and tourists, especially to popular spots like Pier Park and the main beaches. While it’s busier, there’s still plenty of space to enjoy the shoreline.
Quieter Times
- Fall (September–November): Fewer crowds and warm weather make this one of the best times to visit.
- Winter (December–February): The area is much quieter, appealing to snowbirds seeking a peaceful escape.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
- Visit St. Andrews State Park or Shell Island for a more secluded beach experience.
- Arrive early in the morning to secure a prime spot on the beach.
- Explore less-touristy areas, such as smaller beaches or nature trails.
Journey Connected can help you plan your Panama City Beach trip, choosing the best time to visit and crafting a custom itinerary that balances relaxation with adventure, ensuring a perfect experience for your travel style.
Hurricane season in Panama City Beach runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak months typically being August through October. While storms can occur, it’s important to note that not every year sees significant hurricane activity in the area, and many travelers still enjoy great weather during this time.
If you’re planning a trip during hurricane season, you can take a few precautions to ensure a stress-free vacation:
- Check Weather Forecasts: Keep an eye on tropical weather updates as your trip approaches.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations.
- Flexible Plans: Book accommodations and activities with flexible cancellation policies.
Journey Connected specializes in creating customized travel plans to help you navigate concerns like weather while ensuring you have the best experience possible. As a full-service travel agency, we handle everything from booking accommodations and flights to designing expert-crafted itineraries tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re visiting during peak season or the quieter months, we’ll make your trip to Panama City Beach seamless, enjoyable, and worry-free!
Panama City, Florida, stands out as a unique destination in the U.S. for its stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and rich mix of outdoor and cultural experiences. Here’s what makes it special:
1. World-Class Beaches
Panama City Beach is famous for its sugar-white sand and emerald-green waters, stretching over 27 miles along the Gulf of Mexico. The calm, clear waters make it a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
2. St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island
This natural gem offers a tranquil escape with pristine beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities to see wildlife. Nearby Shell Island, a barrier island, is a must-visit for snorkeling and spotting dolphins.
3. Family-Friendly Fun
Panama City Beach is packed with attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not, WonderWorks, and Gulf World Marine Park, making it a top destination for families.
4. Vibrant Local Scene
The city blends small-town charm with lively attractions, offering plenty of waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and seasonal festivals like the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam.
5. Outdoor Adventures
In addition to water sports, visitors can enjoy activities like deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and eco-tours through the area’s natural habitats.
Journey Connected specializes in creating tailored travel plans for destinations like Panama City. As a full-service travel agency, we handle everything from booking accommodations and activities to designing expert-crafted itineraries that match your travel style. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, romantic escape, or adventure-filled trip, we’ll make your visit to Panama City seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable!
Are you tired of travel plans that don’t live up to your dreams?
Elevate your next journey with expert vacation planning that turns every trip into an unforgettable adventure! Stop wasting time and money—trust our professionals to book your travel and create the perfect, personalized itinerary just for you.
Tired of travel plans that fall short?
Elevate your journey with expert, personalized vacation planning for an unforgettable adventure.
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