This Panhandle city balances spring-break-worthy fun with elevated beach living.
Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast of the Florida Panhandle, Panama City offers 27 miles of pristine beachfront. With more than 100 access points, it’s easy to enjoy the soft white sand and gentle turquoise surf. The area is also a gateway to eco-adventures, from fishing experiences in St. Andrews Bay to nature hikes at the area’s two state parks. Plus, who can resist a day trip to the secluded Shell Island, where you can swim with bottlenose dolphins? Match all this with upscale shopping and dining for a relaxing stay in the Sunshine State.
Explore Panama City
- Historic Downtown Panama City
- Bay Point
- Panama City Beach
Historic Downtown Panama City
Overview
Enjoy old Florida charm in the form of National Historic Registry-designated buildings, art deco theaters and fresh-off-the-line seafood. The marina provides access to deep-sea fishing and dolphin tours, as well as serene water views.
Known For
Dining, History , Culture
Bay Point
Overview
The quiet community of Bay Point is largely residential, but for those in the know, this is the ultimate home base for golfing, tennis and ocean outings without the crowds. Most visitors stick to the resort area, but along the waterfront and marina you’ll find a scattering of tour operators ready to get you out on the ocean.
Known For
Golf, Tennis
Panama City Beach
Overview
Unwind on miles of wide-open white sand in this waterfront resort town on the Gulf of Mexico. Lean into kitschy Florida-style fun with opportunities to hand-feed alligators, swim with dolphins, ride a beachside Ferris wheel and drink cocktails at the dozens of bars up and down the beach.
Known For
Beaches, Shopping, Restaurants , Bars
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Visit Panama City for a Weekend of Florida-Style Fun
Visit St. Andrews State Park
Begin your day at a laid-back coffeehouse for an organic brew and some fresh banana pancakes. Spend the afternoon in St. Andrews State Park, where you can watch for local wildlife along miles of beachside nature trails. End the day slurping down ice-cold oysters at a restaurant overlooking the Grand Lagoon.
Pack a Picnic on Shell Island
Set sail for Shell Island, an uninhabited paradise set between the Gulf of Mexico and the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay. Here, you can opt to swim with dolphins or picnic on the dunes alongside deer and ghost crabs. Your day ends at Pier Park with fresh seafood and live country music.
Splash Around at Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Enjoy a slow morning at Panama City’s top vegan café before heading to Shipwreck Island Waterpark. Relax on the lazy river and test your mettle at the 65-foot-tall Tree Top Drop before you hit the shore for a game of beach volleyball followed by Gulf-fresh oysters and frozen piña coladas on the beach.