Things To Do & Attractions In Panama City Beach Florida

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Experience the great outdoors of Panama City Beach.

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Where sand meets the surf, you’ll find it all.

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Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails – and great views await.

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Panama City Beach in 60 seconds

Panama City Beach Weather

Quick Facts

Average water temp at the beach is 73 degrees.

Nearest Airport

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport

Panama City Beach Events

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PANAMA CITY BEACH

Q: What are some things to do in Panama City Beach?

A: PCB offers everything from relaxing on 27 miles of sugar‑white sand, to exploring St. Andrews State Park, diving offshore wreck sites, visiting Gulf World Marine Park, enjoying nightlife at Pier Park, live music, deep‑sea fishing charters, eco‑tours, and even Dolly Parton’s new Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show launching in May 2025

Q: Where is Panama City Beach located?

A: On the Gulf of Mexico in Florida's Panhandle, in Bay County—about 3 miles west of Panama City and east of Destin.

Q: What county is Panama City Beach in?

A: Bay County, Florida.

Q: Where can you find seafood in Panama City Beach?

A: Pier Park waterfront restaurants, Captain Anderson’s Marina, local docks, and classics like The Shrimp Basket and Sharky’s Beachfront Cafe—they serve Gulf‑fresh, locally caught seafood

Q: How far is Panama City Beach from Destin?

A: Approximately 45–50 miles west via US‑98, about a 1‑hour scenic drive along the Emerald Coast.

Q: Are dogs allowed on Panama City Beach?

A: You can bring your dog to certain areas. This is a great resource for checking which locations and hours you can bring your furry friends.

Q: What are the beach hours for Panama City Beach?

A: Public beach hours vary by season and local ordinance; generally early sunrise to sunset. Pier Park and businesses have extended hours, especially during summer. Check our Panama City Beach Guide for updated information.

Q: What is the water temperature in Panama City Beach?

A: Ranges from around 65°F in winter to 85°F+ in summer—perfect for swimming in late spring through early fall.

Q: What is Panama City Beach known for?

A: Its emerald Gulf waters, long sugar‑white dunes, offshore dive wrecks, huge dolphin populations, vibrant seasonal festivals, and family‑friendly coastal culture. - Wikipedia.

Q: What are some festivals and events in Panama City Beach?

A: Year‑round festivals include:

Gulf Coast Jam (early June, country music)
Seabreeze Jazz Festival (late April)
Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest (October)
Thunder Beach motorcycle rallies (May & October)
Mardi Gras & Music Festival (February)
Food Truck & Craft Beer Fest, Ironman Florida, New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop and holiday events like Beach Home for the Holidays

Stay up to date with our Events page.

Q: When is the best time of year to visit Panama City Beach?

A: For warm beach weather and great events, April through June is prime. Fall (Sept–Oct) is great for cooler temps and festivals, but you’ll want to watch for storm season.

Q: Can you swim with dolphins in Panama City Beach?

A: Yes! Several local operators—like Dolphin Seafari, Salty Dogs, Blue Dolphin Tours—offer guided dolphin‑swim and snorkeling excursions in wild bottlenose dolphin pods, complete with safety briefings and equipment provided.

Q: Where are some snorkeling and diving spots in PCB?

A: Top diving/snorkeling areas include the shipwreck reefs offshore, and Shell Island/Andrews Inlet around St. Andrews State Park. Many guided tours incorporate both snorkeling and dolphin‑spotting.

Q: Are there eco‑tours or nature trails near Panama City Beach?

A: Yes. St. Andrews State Park (3 miles east) provides coastal trails, kayaking, birding, and guided boat/tour programs. Shell Island ferry trips showcase protected dunes and wildlife in a low‑impact way.

Q: What are some kid‑friendly attractions in PCB?

A: Gulf World Marine Park (dolphin shows, rehab exhibits), Man in the Sea Museum (diving history), waterparks like Shipwreck Island, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. Plus family zones at festivals and interactive beach events.

Q: Are there any ghost stories or legends about Panama City Beach?

A: While there’s no famous ghost lore tied to PCB directly, the old “Haunted House” ride at Race City amusement park was known locally for creep factor. As always, locals will whisper about “something strange at dusk” near dune paths, but nothing documented or tourist‑branded today.