In addition to Panama City Beach’s renowned seafood restaurants, the town is also home to many fun family attractions. Visitors can try dolphin tours, pirate cruises, go-kart racing, rollercoasters, bowling, and mini golf. There are also interactive museums and the Frank Brown Park complex hosts several fun events. And when you’re not in the mood for wine, you can always stop by the Grand Marlin bar for some shucked-to-order oysters!
For dinner, head to one of the many ocean-side restaurants. The award-winning Pompano Joe’s has been a Panama City Beach favorite since 1995. This restaurant’s Seafood Gumbo is a must-try dish, and there are other seafood joints nearby, including Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House. There’s plenty of seafood in Panama City Beach, so make sure to try a variety of dishes.
Fishing is an important part of vacationing in Panama City Beach, and you can try your luck fly-fishing in St. Andrews Bay or trolling the Gulf of Mexico. Although there’s some fishing in the summer and fall months, the best time to catch a big catch is during the Spring and Fall. If you’re into hiking, kayaking, or biking, don’t miss the St Andrews State Park, just over a mile south of the city’s beach. You’ll see a pristine world that was once untouched by development.
Pier Park has something for everyone. For families, there’s a large beachfront amusement park called Pier Park. You’ll find everything you need from ice cream to furniture. You can also take the kids on a ride on the SkyWheel, a 170-foot-tall Ferris wheel. You can even get a glass-floor VIP gondola for four. The kids’ activities are endless and can be enjoyed any time of day.
The beaches in Panama City Beach are plentiful, with many popular spots. Camp Helen State Park and St. Andrews State Park being just a couple of popular beaches. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a variety of water sports at most beaches. If you’re not up for a full-on water adventure, you can also make use of one of the many pools found at Panama City Beach hotels. Whether you’re looking for a quiet swimming pool or a large resort pool, there’s bound to be a pool for you.
For a truly unique experience, consider a dolphin and snorkel tour. Located near the largest bottlenose dolphin population in the world, this tour company is the only one in Panama City Beach that guarantees sightings. And the company’s owner is a dedicated environmentalist. Unlike other Panama City Beach tour operators, Dolphin and Snorkel Tours doesn’t feed dolphins – it’s a surefire way to disturb the natural eco-ecosystem of the animal.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, skydiving from 14,000 feet is another exciting option. Skydive Panama City Beach offers a safe, controlled environment for new and experienced skydivers. The breathtaking views and the food at Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant make it an unforgettable experience. When you’re done adrenalin-pumping activities, head to Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant for a delicious meal.