Panama City Beach, Florida, United States, is a popular beach town for spring breakers since it is known as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It boasts a sprawling 43.45-km (27-mi) long sandy shoreline and is often touted as “The Spring Break Capital of the World”. It is also a great place to enjoy with family. And if you’re looking for the best places to stay in Panama City Beach, plenty of amazing options are available here - from top beachfront hotels to the best Vrbo beach houses with a pool. Now that you accommodation is sorted, go our and explore the city! Check out these fun things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida.
Events to look out for:
Seabreeze Jazz Festival: Every April, Panama City Beach transforms into a smooth jazz paradise thanks to Seabreeze Jazz Festival. It was nominated as one of the “Best Jazz Festivals” at the Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards. You’ll enjoy live performances from top artists, the iconic Seabreeze Jazz Cruise, and vibrant after-parties. With the perfect blend of music and beautiful beach scenery, it’s a weekend you won’t forget.
PCB Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival: If you’re a foodie, this event is a must. Enjoy local food trucks and craft beers, and listen to music to uplift your spirits. There are also several activities for all ages, so bring your little ones along too!
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Where to stay in Panama City Beach, Florida
Miles of sandy beaches, rolls of waves, and glorious Florida sun are only some of the things that await you in Panama City Beach. While the city is great for all types of visitors, it is generally a pleasant treat for families who are looking for an unforgettable vacation. The beautiful beaches alone provide plenty of things to do during spring break. Aside from beaches, you can also visit zoos, nature parks, waterparks, eco trails, and amusement and theme parks that your whole family can enjoy. While in the city, don’t forget to book accommodations that suit your needs. You can opt for kid-friendly resort rooms which come with access to the hotel’s amenities. If your family prefers private stays, you can book spacious condominiums where you can wake up to stunning views of the sea. There are also luxury apartments available right by the beach.
Here are our top recommendations on where to stay:
1. Go shopping at Pier Park
Best for: Shopaholics, families
What do locals do in Panama City Beach, FL? A couple of them go to Pier Park. It is an outdoor shopping complex that opened to the public in 2008 and people have been enjoying shopping and hanging out here ever since then.
It is quite popular with the locals and tourists alike. There are a total of 124 stores where you can find anything from jewelry to women’s clothes. Some stores that you will find are: Target, JCPenney, and Marshalls. There are lots of places to eat and relax as well. Last, but not least, there is a Grand IMAX theatre here, so be sure to catch a movie while here.
Pier Park
Address: 600 Pier Park Drive, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: Pier Park
2. Unwind at Camp Helen State Park
Best for: Nature buffs, families
This is one beautiful park, I have to say. It is a nice place to fish, kayak, have a picnic, swim or just walk and take in the natural beauty. The park offers some really breathtaking scenic views and that is why people enjoy hiking here or just spending the day at the park.
You may spot some interesting animals here as well. Be sure to stop here with family.
Camp Helen State Park
Address: 23937 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: Camp Helen State Park
3. Have fun at Escape Manor
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Group activity
If you are looking to enjoy an unforgettable experience during your visit to Panama City Beach, Escape Manor might be an ideal place for you and your loved ones. This establishment offers several escape rooms with different themes, from the asylum to the attic, which makes this one of the more unique things to do in Panama City Beach.
Some rooms can allow up to six players, but the attic room can allow up to eight players, so you can have some fun with your friends. The cabin room is unique as it does not offer any clues, making it perfect for those who are up for the challenge.
Escape Manor
Address: 430 Harrison Ave, Panama City, FL 32401, United States
Website: Escape Manor
Opening hours: 10am - 10:30pm (daily)
Price: 30 USD onwards
4. Get your adrenaline pumping at Scream Machine Thrill Ride at Panama City Beach
Best for: Watersports enthusiasts, group activity, families
Feel the thrilling ocean wind as you breeze through the water with a twin-engine jet boat by Scream Machine Thrill Ride. Describing itself as “a rollercoaster on water”, this ride is a perfect Panama City beach activity for thrillseekers and adventures alike.
With the speed that this boat is going, get ready to feel the saltwater splash on your body. It’s not always adrenaline-pumping activities and thrills, because the ride can also take you to some great sightseeing spots that you can enjoy in peace.
5. Bond with your friends and family at AXE Throwing
Best for: Group activity, thrill seekers
Thinking of what to do in Panama City Beach? Why not try some team-building activity or family bonding moment at AXE Throwing? Test your strength and dexterity down these lanes as you bond with your companions because nothing screams fun bonding than throwing an ax at a target while your companions cheer you on.
Don’t worry too much about your age or skill level as the venue has skilled ax-throwing coaches that will teach you the proper techniques of throwing!
Book Tours : AXE Throwing
6. Tour around on an e-bike adventure
Best for: Couples, group activity, sports enthusiasts
One of the best ways to tour around this town is to embark on a biking adventure, offering tourists uninterrupted views of the natural landscapes of Panama City Beach. You can experience the culture of the place by exploring the historic area of St. Andrews, where you can find a waterfront farmers’ market.
The Panama City Publishing Company & Museum can also be part of the itinerary, making this two-hour tour ideal for those who want to witness the town’s rich history.
Book Tours : Panama City Small-Group E-Bike Tour
7. Visit Panama City Beach Winery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Foodies, couples, group activity
Wine enthusiasts can surely have a great time at Panama City Beach Winery. This local winery produces high-quality natural fruit wines and offers complimentary wine tastings to its visitors.
Not only that, but the establishment also offers refreshing wine slushes with unique flavors, such as mocha, key lime, and banana. If you are planning to visit to buy a gift for your special someone, you can opt for the packaging with a message in a bottle to make it more special.
Panama City Beach Winery
Address: 8730 Thomas Dr #1103B, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, United States
Website: Panama City Beach Winery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
8. Catch a performance at Todd Herendeen Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Group activity, partygoers
Todd Herendeen Theatre can offer travelers a unique experience, showcasing live performances all year round. You can choose to buy a ticket for a dinner show, or you can also opt to just watch the show.
The performances are tributes to the rock and country music icons, such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison. From November to December, you can watch Christmas shows performed by the talented artist and the band.
Todd Herendeen Theatre
Address: 8010 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States
Website: Todd Herendeen Theatre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 3pm; Sat: 5:30pm - 7pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 27.95 USD onwards
9. Enjoy water activities at Water Planet
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Water Planet on Saturday, September 10, 2016
Best for: Families
This is a smaller, yet fun marine park in Panama City Beach. You can swim with dolphins here as well, but what is unique about this specific place is that is offers Dolphin Therapy Programs for children with special needs as well as emotionally challenged and fragile children. These kids get to interact with the beautiful dolphins and these programs are designed to make them feel comfortable doing so. It is nice to see the care and love put into these programs.
Water Planet
Address: 5709 N Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: Water Planet
10. Flip, hop and bounce at Just Jump Trampoline Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
New day, same great place to play! #JumpPCB #TrampolinePark #SafeFunClean
Posted by Just Jump Trampoline Park - Panama City Beach, FL on Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Best for: Group activity, sports enthusiasts, families
Head to Just Jump Trampoline Park for a day of energetic activities. This gigantic indoor facility features an open jump space, obstacle course, dodgeball court, basketball court, airbag jump and several other activities. However, make sure you carry trampoline grip socks to bounce safely. Else, you can purchase them on-site.
There is also a virtual gaming section where you can cool off between all that bouncing, jumping and flipping. The Kiddie Area offers safe yet fun activities for children up to six years of age. They can rollick in the kid-specific trampoline, foam pit and climbing walls.
Just Jump Trampoline Park
Address: 11220 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Website: Just Jump Trampoline Park
Opening hours: Mon - Tue, Thu: 10am - 8pm; Wed: 11am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm
Price: Starting at 13.50 USD
11. Splash into fun at Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Families
This is a fun waterpark for kids and families that is a popular tourist attraction. For little kids there is a shallow pool named Tadpole Hole. The older kids will enjoy the tipping bucket and the large pool. You will also find a few family slides and challenging slides. Last, but not least, for those who want to relax there is a lazy river and a wave pool here.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Address: 12201 Hutchison Boulevard, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: Shipwreck Island Waterpark
12. Race against the clock at Area Z51 – Zombie Escape
Best for: Group activity, indoor activity
Venture into a world of mystery at Area Z51 – Zombie Escape. It is the ultimate teamwork activity, where everyone is locked inside a zombie-themed escape room. The team has to solve a series of mind-twisting puzzles and uncover hidden clues before time’s up to save themselves from a zombie attack.
Beverages are included so you can keep refreshed - all you need to do is go there and have fun!
Book Tours : Area Z51-Zombie Escape
13. Be awed by the attractions at WonderWorks
Best for: Families
When you are in Panama City Beach, you will notice an upside-down building. This is the place called WonderWorks, which is a really great attraction for families. It is an indoor amusement and theme park, a laser tag center and a historical landmark that offers more than 100 interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike.
Some of the exhibits you will find here include: an imagination lab, a physical challenge zone and a light and sound zone. You will have loads of fun exploring the many interactive exhibits at this place.
WonderWorks
Address: 9910 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: WonderWorks
14. Visit Shell Island
Best for: Beachgoers, adventure seekers
This is a natural, undeveloped island that lies between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. The sand dunes here are about seven miles (11.2 kilometers) long. The world’s highest concentration of bottle-nosed dolphins resides in this beautiful island, so be sure to pay them a visit as well as the various wildlife.
Also, here you can snorkel, fish and bird watch or just enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. If you do plan to spend the day, be sure to pack a picnic lunch.
Shell Island
Address: 3601 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Website: Shell Island
15. See the animals at Zoo World
Best for: Families, group activity
This is a zoo and wildlife sanctuary where you can get hands on with wild animals and get close up to the many exotic creatures from around the world that reside here. Basically, you will have a chance to see animals in their natural environment and you can also play with them. I mean you can actually do really fun things here like kiss a giraffe, hug a lemur, hold an alligator or even pet a porcupine! If you want to, that is.
Zoo World
Address: 9008 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: Zoo World
16. Interact with marine life at Gulf World Marine Park
Best for: Families, nature buffs
If you’re looking for interesting Panama City Beach activities, then make your way to Gulf World Marine Park. This is a marine park like Sea World, but not as big, where you can swim with the dolphins, interact with them and also spend the night at the marine park. Also, there are daily live shows to enjoy. There are also turtles, birds, harbor seals and penguins here.
This place hosts special events on Halloween, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to name a few. A really fun place to interact with beautiful creatures.
17. Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise
Best for: Couples, group activity
For a romantic activity to do with your partner, how about embarking on a Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise in Panama City Beach? Hop aboard a lovely catamaran and enjoy a cruise on Grand Lagoon while taking in gorgeous sunset views.
Watch pods of dolphins swim by, listen to the beautiful music onboard, take in views of elegant homes and sail past St. Andrews State Park. Hold your partner close and enjoy a magical evening on this two-hour cruise.
Book Tours : Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
18. Embark on an eco tour
Best for: Adventure seekers, group activity
For a fun day out on the water, book this Cold Spring Eco Tour that lets you explore the beauty of Cypress Springs. Choose from a kayak, canoe or paddleboard to make your way to Cypress Springs across Holmes Creek.
Once there, your guide will provide you with all snorkeling equipment, including underwater scooters which take all the effort out of snorkeling so you can be relaxed and take in all the marine life views. A sandwich lunch and drinks are also included in this tour.
Book Tours : Cypress Springs Eco Adventure
19. Try out various beach adventures
Best for: Thrill seekers, group activity, families
Those looking for adventurous activities to enjoy in the water should consider joining Panama City Beach Adventure Catamaran Sail. This catamaran adventure combines sailing with water activities like snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and more.
Sail to Shell Island and enjoy splashing about and having fun on a giant trampoline, a see-saw ball, a water slide, a climbing wall, and more.
20. Check out Ripley's Believe It Or Not
Best for: Group activity, families
A popular tourist attraction in almost any city that it is located in, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not is a must-visit spot in Panama City Beach too. With a quirk exterior resembling a ship sinking into the ground, the museum can be spotted from afar.
Inside, all manner of odd objects and artifacts are on display, including Titanic memorabilia, weird animal and human skeletons, artwork and wax figurines. You can also check out a mirror maze, a 7D-theater, a laser race challenge, and more.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not
Address: 9907 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States
Website: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 10.99 USD onwards
21. Spend a day outdoors at Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Families, nature buffs
For a fun day out with your family in Panama City Beach, visit Coconut Creek Family Fun Park. Spread across a large area, this beautiful park has many places to explore, enjoy or simply relax in. The highlight, however, are two 18-hole mini-golf courses and a giant maze.
Enjoy a round of golf in beautiful green surroundings or find your way out of the maze. The latter attraction is perfect to play individually or as a team too. You can also take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped park that has a lake, bridges, waterfalls, and more.
Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
Address: 9807 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States
Website: Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
Opening hours: 9am - 11:30pm (daily)
Price: 13.50 USD onwards
22. Explore Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade's adventures
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Group activity, families
Immerse yourselves in an adventure at Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade. This stunning rainforest-themed indoor establishment features an indoor 18-hole miniature golf course, where visitors of all age groups can putt away to their heart’s content.
The unique neon, glow-in-the-dark ambience adds to the appeal as animal statues and other jungle elements come to life. While the golf course’s front section is styled in a jungle rainforest theme, the rear section follows a Jurassic rainforest decor. Additionally, you can enjoy arcade gaming at the Nerf gun simulator or Skee-Ball.
Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade
Address: 9129 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Website: Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 10pm
Price: Starting at 13.95 USD
23. Complete the challenges at Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Families, group activity, indoor activity
The family-owned Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze is a must-visit. Here, you can bumble along in a world of illusions and special light effects at the glow-in-the-dark Mirror Maze. To add to the difficulty and fun, you can try mastering the maze blindfolded.
Else, consider challenging your loved ones to a thrilling combat game in the Bazooka Ball section. Laser Tag and Laser Vault sections are other spots where you can activate your stealth mode and pave your way to victory.
Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze
Address: 701 S Pier Park Dr #107, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Website: Emerald Coast Mirror Maze and Laser Craze
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm
24. Participate in XD Darkride Experience Pier Park's immersive movies
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Best for: Thrill seekers, families, group activity.
Thrill seekers can stimulate their senses at XD Darkride Experience Pier Park. This unique multi-sensory facility combines sound and visual effects to create adrenaline-pumping experiences. These are short interactive 7D movies featuring rapid motion seats, special light effects and wind machines that immerse the visitor into the movie.
The kid-friendly Los Banditos movie is a fun interactive experience as you negotiate through the life-like scenery of the Wild West. Else, consider heading for the fearsome Zombies or power-packed Road Fighters experience.
XD Darkride Experience Pier Park
Address: 701 S Pier Park Dr #153, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Website: XD Darkride Experience Pier Park
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 11.99 USD
25. Visit Fun-Land Arcade & Snack Bar for family enjoyment
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY to all of our Funland friends, especially to those Veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. If you are visiting the beach this weekend, make sure you stop by Funland!
Posted by FunLand Arcade and Snack Bar on Sunday, May 29, 2016
Best for: Families, indoor activity
Indulge in family-friendly fun at Fun-Land Arcade & Snack Bar. This arcade centre opened its doors in 1953 and has since been a popular attraction for visitors across various age groups. There are more than 100 arcade games as well as children’s rides here. Your little ones can whirl on the indoor carousel as you challenge your loved ones to a game of air hockey or pinball.
The vintage section features video game favourites that the older ones will certainly enjoy playing. Pacman, Pop-a-shot, Galaga and Guitar Hero are some of the other games you’ll find here.
When the hunger pangs kick in, you can head to the snacks section and relish some delicious fare. The shrimp platter and chocolate-vanilla swirl soft serve cone are the top must-try items here.
Fun-Land Arcade & Snack Bar
Address: 14510 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Website: FunLand Arcade and Snack Bar
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 7:30am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 7:30am - 11pm
26. Kick up the competition at Rock’It Lanes
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Boasting the best bowling lanes in Bay County and the only bowling family fun center on the beach!
Posted by Rockit Lanes on Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Best for: Group activity, families
You’ll find bowling, arcade gaming and roller skating under one roof at Rock’It Lanes. While you can bowl over your buddies at the multiple alleys, don’t forget to catch the special glow-in-the-dark ROLL! A Laser Light Show that takes place after 10pm daily.
Alternatively, consider heading to the arcade zone for a session of Pac-Man, Hyper Shoot or Mega Stacker, among others. Kids can also entertain themselves by playing games such as Jelly Lab. If roller skating is your thing, you can head to the rink to showcase your skills.
The sports bar on-site is the perfect spot to grab some refreshing drinks and a bite when you take a break. Don’t forget to try the tasty Rock’it hot wings, chef’s salad with grilled chicken breast and homemade hamburgers here.
Rock’It Lanes
Address: 513 N Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Website: Rock’It Lanes
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 2am; Sun: 11am - 2am
27. Satisfy your foodie soul at Chewie’s Kitchen
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Best for: Foodies
While your hotel with an in-room kitchen enables you to prepare delicious meals, here’s another place to check out for when you want to take a break from food preparation. Chewie’s Kitchen is known for its gourmet sandwiches, salads, and more.
If you are looking to enjoy delicious food while you are here, you can head to this American restaurant and order Chewie’s royal roast beef sandwich, which comes with slow-cooked prime rib, melted provolone cheese, and rosemary red wine gravy. You can also enjoy a lighter option, like a Greek salad, or enjoy the establishment’s soup of the day. If you are visiting with your kids, Chewie’s Kitchen offers kiddie meals, such as chicken fingers and grilled cheese.
Chewie’s Kitchen
Address: 9952 Hutchison Blvd UNIT 200, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States
Website: Chewie’s Kitchen
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Some last words about Panama City Beach, Florida
Panama City Beach, Florida, is a fun city that has a beautiful beach. Known also as the Emerald Coast, this is certainly is a place where you can spend the whole day just relaxing on the beach. But, Panama City Beach has much more to offer and see. Whether you’re looking for family attractions or things to do in Panama City Beach for free, you are sure to find them all here. The places mentioned here provide fun for all ages, so be sure to enjoy the town with family and/or friends.
Just don’t forget to check the cozy cabins, cheap hotels, and Airbnb vacation rentals available in the area for your accommodation needs.
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