13 Best Things To Do In Panama City Beach, Florida

Do you imagine turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and endless sunshine?

Wondering what the best things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida.

Panama City Beach, on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is a sunny paradise. Every day feels like a vacation.

This coastal paradise has it all. It has thrilling activities, serene beaches, and a vibrant local culture. It’s a top spot for travelers seeking excitement and relaxation.

From the sparkling Gulf of Mexico to the busy boardwalks, Panama City Beach is full of hidden gems. Its charming eateries add to the charm.

This beach town has charm in every corner. It invites you to explore its beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

We’ll uncover the top beaches, must-visit attractions, and unique local spots.

So, are you ready to dive into the ultimate beach escape?

Let’s set sail for adventure in Panama City Beach!

Why You Must Visit Panama City Beach, Florida

The list of the best things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida, is never-ending.

But what makes this city stand out among other beach destinations?

Here are some key reasons why you must experience Panama City Beach at least once in your lifetime:

• Breathtaking beaches: Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of beautiful, pristine beaches. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to relax or want to take part in water sports, there’s a beach for everyone.
• Thrilling activities: Adventure seekers will find plenty of exciting things here. Try parasailing, jet skiing, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Delicious cuisine: Panama City Beach’s seafood and local food are top-notch. Its diverse restaurants will satisfy every craving.
• Family-friendly atmosphere: This beach town is not just for adults; it’s also a perfect destination for families with kids. From water parks and rides to mini-golf and marine shows, there’s no end to family fun.
• Stunning sunsets: Nothing beats watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico in Panama City Beach. The sky is painted with vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for romantic evenings.

Where is Panama City Beach, Florida?

The city of Panama City Beach is located in the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico. It is situated between Pensacola to the west and Tallahassee to the east.

The beach town is easily accessible by car, with major highways running through the area.

Visitors can also fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. It is 20 minutes from Panama City Beach.

Also, public transportation is available within the city, making it easy to get around.

When to Visit Panama City Beach, Florida

The best time to visit Panama City Beach is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny.

Peak tourist season is in the summer. Expect higher prices and larger crowds.

For a quieter experience, visit in April-May or September-October.

Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida

There are endless possibilities for fun and adventure in Panama City Beach.

Here are the top 10 things to do during your visit:

1. Saint Andrews State Park
2. Pier Park
3. Shipwreck Island Waterpark
4. Enjoy the beach
5. Gulf World Marine Park
6. ZooWorld Zoological Conservatory
7. Ripley’s Believe It or Not
8. Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
9. WonderWorks Panama City Beach
10. Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure
11. Conservation Park
12. Russell-Fields Pier
13. SkyWheel Panama City Beach

Saint Andrews State Park

Saint Andrews State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This park has diverse ecosystems, including beaches, dunes, and salt marshes. It offers endless outdoor activities.

You can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf.

Or explore the hiking trails that wind through the park and lead to beautiful lookout points.

The park has campsites for those who want to camp overnight and enjoy nature.

Saint Andrews State Park’s unique feature is its federally designated wilderness area. It is the only one in Florida.

Pier Park

The Pier Park shopping center is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

With 120+ stores, including major brands and specialty shops, there’s something for everyone.

The outdoor complex also features a movie theater, amusement rides, and frequent events such as concerts and festivals.

Pier Park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, or simply people-watching.

Don’t forget to take a stroll on the Russell-Fields Pier, one of the longest piers in the Gulf of Mexico, for breathtaking views of the coastline.

Overall, Pier Park is a must-visit for those looking for some retail therapy and entertainment in Panama City Beach.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Escape the heat and have some fun at Shipwreck Island Waterpark. This family-friendly attraction features water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more.

There are also designated areas for young children to play, making it a great option for families with kids of all ages.

The park also offers cabana rentals and food options on-site, so you can make a day out of your visit.

With its tropical theme and variety of attractions, Shipwreck Island is a popular spot for cooling off and having fun in the sun.

The main activities of the park are:

• The Great Shipwreck: A 500,000-gallon wave pool with six different wave patterns.
• Tree Top Drop: An adrenaline-pumping slide that drops you from a height of 65 feet.
• Pirate’s Plunge Racing Slide: Compete against your friends on this dual racing slide.
• Lazy River Adventure: Take a relaxing float down the lazy river and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Enjoy the Beach

Of course, a visit to Panama City Beach wouldn’t be complete without spending time on its beautiful beaches.

With 27 miles of pristine coastline, there’s plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.

The white sand and emerald-green waters make fora picturesque setting, perfect for a beach day.

For more adventurous activities, you can try jet skiing, parasailing, or paddle boarding.

But sometimes the best thing to do on the beach is simply lounge, read a book, and listen to the sounds of the waves.

Don’t forget to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico for a perfect end to your day at the beach.

Gulf World Marine Park

It’s not every day you get the chance to swim with dolphins or feed a sea lion, but at Gulf World Marine Park, you can do just that.

This interactive park has animal encounters and shows. You can learn about marine life and conservation efforts.

You can also visit the touch tanks and see unique species like penguins, flamingos, and alligators up close.

Gulf World aims to teach visitors about ocean conservation. It provides an unforgettable experience for all ages.

The main attractions of the park are:

• Dolphin Swim Adventure: A 30-minute interactive experience in which you can swim and play with dolphins.
• Sea Lion Meet and Greet: Meet, feed, and learn about sea lions during this 20-minute encounter.
• Educational Shows: Watch shows about dolphins, sea lions, and tropical birds. Learn about their behaviors and habitats.

ZooWorld Zoological Conservatory

The ZooWorld Zoological Conservatory is home to over 260 animals, including exotic species from all around the world.

This zoo focuses on conservation and education. It offers guided tours and interactive experiences with its animal ambassadors.

You can also hand-feed giraffes, get up close to lemurs, or take a safari ride through the park.

With its intimate setting and diverse collection of animals, ZooWorld is a must-visit for any animal lover.

Also, your visit will help support the zoo’s conservation efforts and care for their animals.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum is a quirky and entertaining attraction that will leave you amazed and fascinated.

With over 500 exhibits, including shrunken heads and a life-size Transformer made from car parts, there’s much to discover. They include the world’s tallest man.

The museum has interactive experiences and mind-bending illusions. They will entertain you.

It’s a fun activity for all ages and is great for those looking for something different to do in Panama City Beach.

Coconut Creek Family Fun Park

For some friendly competition with family or friends, head to Coconut Creek Family Fun Park.

This mini-golf course has two themed courses. They feature waterfalls, caves, and tropical plants.

After your game, you can check out their giant outdoor maze or try your hand at the ropes course and zip line.

Coconut Creek also has a small animal exhibit where you can feed and interact with goats, rabbits, and other animals.

It’s a fun-filled attraction that will bring out your competitive spirit in a beautiful setting.

WonderWorks Panama City Beach

The upside-down exterior of WonderWorks is just the start. It is an interactive science museum with a fun, unique experience.

Inside, you can explore over 100 hands-on exhibits. They cover space, natural disasters, and physical challenges.

There are also thrilling rides, like a 360-degree roller coaster simulator and an indoor ropes course, to enjoy.

WonderWorks is a great place to learn and have fun at the same time, making it a popular attraction for families and school groups alike.

The highlight? You can bring the excitement home by purchasing some of their science kits and experiments that are available in the gift shop.

Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure

The newest attraction in Panama City Beach is Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure, a unique escape room.

Your group has 60 minutes to solve puzzles in an immersive environment. You must find the legendary treasure of “Wongo.”

It’s a challenging and exciting activity that will test your teamwork and problem-solving skills.

With its pirate theme and detailed set design, Swampy Jack’s is a must-try for fans of escape rooms or those looking for something different to do.

Conservation Park

The Conservation Park in Panama City Beach is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

This 2,900-acre preserve offers over 24 miles of hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the diverse wetlands and forests.

You can also kayak or canoe the waterways. It will give you a closer look at the wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and various birds.

The park also has picnic areas and observation decks where you can take a break and appreciate the beauty of this natural sanctuary.

Don’t miss visiting the Education Center, where you can learn about the park’s conservation efforts and get tips on how to protect our environment.

Russell-Fields Pier

Standing at 1,500 feet long, the Russell-Fields Pier is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing in Panama City Beach.

You can rent fishing equipment and purchase bait on-site, making it easy to spend a few hours casting a line into the Gulf of Mexico.

But even if you’re not an angler, the pier offers stunning views of the beach and ocean, making it a great spot to take some photos or watch for dolphins.

The pier also hosts various events throughout the year, such as live music concerts and fireworks shows.

It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a unique view of Panama City Beach’s coastline.

SkyWheel Panama City Beach

The SkyWheel is a towering observation wheel that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and Panama City Beach’s skyline.

At 200 feet, it’s among the tallest Ferris wheels on the Gulf Coast. It’s a must-visit for thrill-seekers and anyone wanting a new view of the city.

The gondolas are climate-controlled, so you can enjoy the ride in comfort no matter what time of year you visit.

For an extra-special experience, consider booking a VIP flight with glass-bottom floors and extended ride time.

Best Beaches in Panama City Beach, Florida

As mentioned earlier, Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of stunning beaches. Here are some of the best ones you should visit:

• St. Andrews State Park: This state park is a must-visit for beach lovers. With its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, it is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
• Shell Island is an unspoiled paradise. It has pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. You can only reach it by boat or ferry.
• Panama City Beach: The namesake beach of the city offers plenty of space to spread out and relax. It’s also a popular spot for water sports and beach activities.
• Carillon Beach: This serene beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace.

Top Attractions in Panama City Beach, Florida

Aside from its stunning beaches, there are plenty of other attractions to discover in Panama City Beach.

• Pier Park: This outdoor mall has shops, restaurants, and entertainment. You can also catch live music performances here throughout the year.
• Shipwreck Island Waterpark: Cool off from the Florida heat at this family-friendly water park with slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more.
• Gulf World Marine Park: Get up close and personal with marine animals like dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays at this interactive park.
• Shell Island Dolphin Tours: Take a boat tour to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat on Shell Island.
• Panama City Beach Winery: Sample and purchase local wines at this charming winery, which is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Final Thoughts

The attractions mentioned above are just a small selection of what Panama City Beach has to offer.

This beach has it all. It has family-friendly activities, unique experiences, and outdoor adventures.

So next time you plan a trip to Florida, make sure to include some of these fantastic attractions in your itinerary.

They will entertain and thrill us. They will also help conserve our planet’s wildlife.

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