Panama City Beach
The big, bright beach town at the west end of the coast: miles of white sand, Gulf-front condos, Pier Park and an island you can only reach by boat.
Beach days, boat days and plenty to do after dark
Panama City Beach stretches along Front Beach Road between the Gulf and West Bay, with Thomas Drive and the Grand Lagoon at its east end. Days here are made for the beach, the water and the parks. Nights mean seafood, shopping and entertainment at Pier Park.
It’s the easiest base for families and first-timers, and the airport is close by. It also makes a good jumping-off point for day trips east along U.S. 98.
- Best for
- Families, big groups, first-time visitors and anyone who wants beach days and boat days
- Don’t miss
- Shell Island via St. Andrews State Park
- Getting here
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
Where to spend the day outside
St. Andrews State Park
Nature trails, fishing spots and paddleboard and kayak rentals, plus the shuttle boat that runs out to Shell Island.
Shell Island
An undeveloped barrier island across the mouth of St. Andrew Bay, loved for shelling and clear water. Plan a day trip.
Camp Helen State Park
Trails, a quiet beach and paddleboard and kayak rentals, near Lake Powell on the western edge of town.
Russell-Fields Pier
Also called City Pier. Walk out over the Gulf or bring a rod and fish, right next to Pier Park.
Frank Brown Park
The city’s big park and festival grounds, home to Gulf Coast Jam each spring.
Family favorites
Gulf World Marine Park
Dolphin, sea lion and penguin shows, plus a sea turtle adoption program.
PCB Wheel
Ride the 200-foot enclosed observation wheel for big Gulf views, then try the mini golf and ropes course nearby.
Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
Find your way through the Gran Maze labyrinth, then play a round on the miniature golf course.
Shows & games
The Grand IMAX theater, the Pirate’s Voyage dinner show and Dave & Buster’s.
Shop, eat, repeat
Pier Park
An open-air shopping, dining and entertainment hub with more than 120 stores, including Target, Dillard’s, JCPenney and Old Navy, plus restaurants and nightly entertainment.
Pier Park North & Pier Park West
More shopping just across U.S. 98, with Dick’s Sporting Goods, Rooms to Go and The Fresh Market for groceries.
Captain Anderson’s
A long-running seafood restaurant and waterfront market overlooking the Grand Lagoon marina.
Thomas Donut & Snack Shop
A walk-up donut and snack stand that has been a Front Beach Road tradition since 1971. Grab a box on the way to the sand.
