Panama City Beach is a favorite destination for families and vacationers looking to enjoy a mix of sun, sand, and fun activities. With its 27 miles of coastline and a variety of attractions, it offers endless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to spend the day on the water, explore local nature spots, or enjoy thrilling shows, planning a trip to Panama City Beach is an exciting endeavor. To make the most of your vacation, it’s important to know what to prioritize and how to prepare.
Here’s a guide to help you plan a fun-filled trip to Panama City Beach, packed with entertainment, adventure, and everything in between.
1. Choose the Best Time to Visit
One of the first steps in planning your trip is deciding when to go. Panama City Beach offers warm weather year-round, but certain seasons may be better depending on your preferences.
If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, visiting in the spring or fall is ideal. During these times, the beaches are less crowded, and the weather is still perfect for outdoor activities. Summer is the peak season for beachgoers, as the hot weather draws in families, but it also means more crowded beaches and attractions. If you’re looking to avoid the high season, consider visiting outside of the summer months or plan your activities in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat and crowds.
2. Experience the Thrill of a Live Performance
A trip to Panama City Beach wouldn’t be complete without taking in some of its top-notch entertainment, and one of the newest attractions, opening in 2025, is the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. This exciting experience is perfect for families, offering an immersive show filled with pirates, mermaids, acrobatic stunts, and even pyrotechnics.
The Panama City Beach show will feature a combination of exciting performances, live music, and a delicious dinner, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages. Modeled after the successful shows in Myrtle Beach and Pigeon Forge, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show promises to be a hit in Panama City Beach. As the third location of this thrilling spectacle, it’s set to provide unforgettable entertainment for vacationers. With a mix of action-packed stunts, sea battles, and even a few songs written just for the show, it’s something the whole family can enjoy.
3. Explore St. Andrews State Park
If you’re a nature lover, you won’t want to miss St. Andrews State Park. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling beaches, with over 1,200 acres of natural beauty to explore. It’s perfect for families looking for a day of outdoor fun, whether you’re into hiking, picnicking, or just relaxing by the water.
The park’s beaches are ideal for swimming, and the clear waters are great for snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails that wind through the park, offering glimpses of local wildlife and stunning scenery. St. Andrews State Park is also a great spot for fishing, with piers and jetties where anglers can try their luck catching a variety of fish. Whether you spend the day exploring the park’s natural beauty or lounging on its secluded beaches, it’s a great addition to your Panama City Beach itinerary.
4. Plan a Day of Watersports
Panama City Beach is famous for its clear, warm waters, making it the perfect place for water activities. Watersports are a must if you want to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for something fun to do with the family, there’s a watersport for everyone.
For those seeking a thrill, try parasailing for a bird’s-eye view of the beach or rent a jet ski to zoom across the water. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking offer a relaxing way to explore the coastline. Many local rental shops offer equipment for all skill levels, and some even provide guided tours for a more structured experience. Booking your watersports in advance is a good idea, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a spot.
5. Visit Pier Park for Shopping and Entertainment
No trip to Panama City Beach is complete without a visit to Pier Park. This massive outdoor shopping and entertainment complex is the go-to spot for families and tourists alike. Whether you want to spend the day shopping, grab a bite to eat, or catch a movie, Pier Park has something for everyone.
Pier Park boasts a wide variety of stores, from well-known brands to unique local boutiques. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs or treat yourself to a little shopping spree. If you’re hungry, the area is packed with dining options ranging from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, offering everything from seafood to classic American cuisine. After a day at the beach, Pier Park is the ideal spot to unwind with some shopping and entertainment.
6. Try Local Seafood and Restaurants
One of the highlights of any trip to Panama City Beach is the chance to sample the local seafood. Known for its fresh catches and casual dining atmosphere, the area offers plenty of options to suit any taste or budget. Whether you’re in the mood for oysters, shrimp, or the catch of the day, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a delicious meal by the water.
Many of the restaurants in the area pride themselves on serving up seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico. Some popular spots offer a more relaxed, family-friendly environment, while others provide a more upscale dining experience. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Gulf Coast oysters, served in a variety of styles, from raw to grilled. For those who prefer something other than seafood, there are plenty of other cuisines to choose from, including Southern comfort food, BBQ, and international fare.
7. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour
A dolphin-watching tour is one of the most popular family-friendly activities in Panama City Beach. The Gulf of Mexico is home to a large population of dolphins, and many tour operators offer boat trips that allow visitors to get up close to these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Tours are available throughout the day, but many visitors opt for early morning or sunset trips to catch the dolphins when they are most active. Some tours even offer snorkeling, allowing you to dive into the clear waters and experience marine life firsthand. These tours are great for all ages, making them a fun and educational experience for the entire family.
In conclusion, a trip to Panama City Beach offers a perfect blend of fun activities, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re exploring nature, catching a show, or indulging in local seafood, the variety of things to do ensures there’s something for everyone. With a bit of planning and packing the right essentials, your vacation to Panama City Beach will be filled with lasting memories and plenty of exciting experiences.