Things to do in Panama City Beach, FL

PCB Golf Courses

Local courses include a top PGA school, beautifully landscaped country club fairways, challenging water holes and more. Contact the golf courses directly for reservations as preferred tee times are booked quickly.

 

St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park, located off Thomas Dr. three miles east of Panama City Beaches, was named by Travel Magazine as “The World’s Best Beach” in 1995. Well-known for its sugar white sands and emerald green waters, this former military reservation has over one-and-a-half miles of beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. Two fishing piers, a jetty, and a boat ramp provide ample fishing opportunities for anglers. Two nature trails wind through a rich diversity of coastal plant communities - a splendid opportunity for bird-watching. Those wanting to relax can sunbathe on the beach or enjoy a leisurely lunch under the shade of a picnic pavilion. Full-facility campsites, as well as primitive youth group camping, make this park a popular overnight destination. A concession offers snacks, souvenirs, and fishing amenities. Shell Island Boat Tours are available during the spring and summer.

 

From the park, you can also take a ferry trip to Shell Island, a pristine barrier island just across from the mainland. This 700-acre island is a peaceful spot for sunning or collecting shells.

 

Camp Helen State Park

Camp St. Helen State Park is a truly a hidden gem, Camp Helen is a beautiful daytime getaway destination. With its long and unique history, Camp Helen is sure to appeal to everyone.

 

Visit the lodge and relax in the rocking chairs as you look at Lake Powell, a rare coastal dune lake. Learn stories about the park's history or share some of your own. Visit the Visitor's Center and enjoy photos and memorabilia from the park's past, as well as wildlife displays! Enjoy a nice stroll down the nature trail, or simply take time to enjoy a walk on the beach. Camp Helen is also a great fishing spot, so bring your gear!

 

Camp Helen State Park Website

Gulf World Marine Park

Gulf World's daily shows featuring Dolphins, Sea Lions, Reptiles, Tropical Birds and other furry animals will amaze you. Pay one price and see all the shows and explore our indoor and outdoor tropical gardens showcasing penguins, sea turtles, alligators and flamingos. Our stingray petting pool is always a popular activity during your visit. Parking is free and we are open rain or shine.We offer many ways for you to get up close and personal with our animals. You can make a reservation for any of our interactive programs. Our Swim with a Dolphin program is a great opportunity to enter our million-gallon dolphin habitat and get eye to eye with these fantastic animals. The Trainer for a Day program is an all day program behind the scenes working with our trainers caring for our animals. Our Day Camps are filled with fun activities learning about different animals. Our Sea Lion & Dolphin Meet-N-Greet programs allow you to interact with our animals and trainers during training sessions.

 

Gulf World Marine Park Website

Pier Park

Pier Park Panama City Beach is a 900,000+ square foot Florida shopping center and entertainment hub located in the heart of this beachside city. Serving as the premiere Northwest Florida shopping destination, this mecca offers dining, specialty shops, attractions, The Grand movie theatre, events and more. Come get your feet wet with Panama City Beach shopping! 

 

Businesses recently added include Apricot Lane and Emerald Coast Olive Oil. Businesses opening in 2014 include Dave and Busters, Pita Pit and Chicken Salad Chick. Department Stores include: Target, Super Walmart, JCPennys, Dillards.

 

Pier Park Website

Shipwreck Water Park

Shipwreck Island Waterpark opened in the summer of 1983. The tropical theme waterpark is filled with attractions and food and beverage outlets to bring smiles to every member of your family. The twenty-acre park features lush landscaping, a professionally trained aquatics staff, and is one of the most hospitable attractions in all of North Florida. Shipwreck Island has been entertaining families for twenty-five years on Panama City Beach. Don’t settle for a sprinkle, come make a big splash at Shipwreck Island Waterpark. See you soon!

 

Shipwreck Waterpark Website

Wonder Works

WonderWorks challenges the mind, sparks the imagination and leads the way as the top interactive attraction. Through innovation, entertainment and affordability, WonderWorks turns fun upside down and inspires lasting memories for guests of all ages.

 

Wonderworks Website

Helicopter Tours

See Panama City Beach in a whole new light! From the crystal clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and amazing landscapes as far as the eye can see, this is the perfect activity for those looking for adventure. Panama City Beach is stunning at all hours of the day, but we have a soft spot for sunrise and sunsets. And from the point of view a helicopter provides? Sign us up!

 

Check out our friends at Panhandle Helicopter for a variety of options to make your helicopter tour a one of a kind experience. 

 

Panhandle Helicopter Website