Do you need to know all the best things to do in Panama City, Florida? I’ll help you plan the perfect beach getaway!
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I don’t know about you, but Panama City has always been a go-to beach getaway!
I live in Nashville, TN, and Panama City for us was always where everyone went for Spring Break.
Since then, I’ve gone there and the surrounding beaches numerous times.
If you want to party on Spring Break it’s a great place to go – but even if you want to go for a vacation another time of year it’s still the perfect place to get some relaxation and fun in!
If you’re planning a vacation – whether with friends, family, or a significant other – I hope this list helps you have the absolute best time!
Best Things To Do In Panama City, Florida!
1.) Soak Up The Sun On Panama City Beach!
Well, let’s start with the most obvious! I’m quite sure the whole reason you planned your trip to Panama City probably had something to do with laying on the beach.
When I go with friends we will take snacks, drinks, towels, or chairs and layout while listening to music from a speaker we brought.
It’s seriously so great for the soul!
We also love cooling off in the water, and we personally love bringing some floats for some added fun!
Here are my go-to bring-alongs for laying out on the beach:
2.) Visit St. Andrews State Park & Shell Island
If you want to explore some quieter beaches, I would highly suggest heading to St. Andrews State Park.
You’ll be able to go kayaking, snorkeling, or even fishing.
From there you can also take a shuttle to Shell Island. It’s absolutely stunning and you’re sure to see lots of wildlife! Shell Island is pretty untouched – making it that much more amazing, but just know in advance because there are no restrooms or concession stands! Come prepared with everything you may need.
3.) Take a Dolphin Boat Tour or a Sunset Catamaran Sail
Any chance to be out in farther into the water, I take! Luckily Panama City has a ton of opportunities to get out into the water.
Dolphin tours are great and if you are traveling with kids they are sure to love watching the dolphins jumping through the water!
Sunset sails are absolutely beautiful and so romantic if you want to do something special in the evening with your significant other.
If you’re worried about motion sickness, just put on one of these motion sickness patches before getting on board just to be safe!
4.) Spend Some Time In Pier Park
Pier Park is a must see in Panama City!
There’s so much to do – tons of shopping, restaurants, and fun activities (Laser Tag, IMAX theatre, a Dave & Busters for arcade game).
Spending a day or even one of your evenings at Pier Park is the way to go.
5.) Explore Gulf World Marine Park
This is a good one for anyone, but especially if you are traveling as a family!
At the Gulf World Marine Park, you can swim with dolphins, watch shark feedings, see sea lions, penguins, and so much more!
6.) Rent a Bike
Another one of the best things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida is to rent a bike! There are so many great trails and sidewalks that are beautiful for taking rides down right by the water.
I recommend taking a stroll down Front Beach Road or riding some trails in Conservation Park.
I like taking a phone holder for the bike to put my map on and be able to see where I’m going while I ride while not being too distracted.
7.) Watch the Sunset From Russell-Fields Pier
You absolutely have to see the sunset on the Gulf Coast! It’s a stunning view.
One of the best places to do this is from Russell-Fields Pier. It does cost $4 but you get access to the pier for the whole day. And the sunset is absolutely breathtaking.
8.) Eat Seafood of Course!
As you all know I LOVE seafood, so anytime I’m closer to an area I can get it fresh I of course eat it as much as possible.
Some great places to try are Hunt’s Oyster Bar, Shooners, or The Grand Marlin. All are amazing! But pretty much anywhere you go you’re sure to find some great seafood on the menu!
Panama City is not just a spring break destination – it can be great during any time of the year and can be great with kids or significant others.
There are so many great things to do, and in my opinion, these are some of the best things to do in Panama City, Florida.
I hope you have an amazing vacation at your beach getaway!
This post was all about the best things to do in Panama City, Florida!
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