Discover the Best Panama City Beach Florida Attractions

Panama City Beach, Florida, is a gem along the Gulf of Mexico, with 27 miles of pristine coastline. Known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of activities, this destination offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities or looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Panama City Beach has it all.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Panama City Beach, FL, and help you find the ideal Panama City Beach vacation rental.

St. Andrew’s State Park

Located on the eastern edge of Panama City Beach, the park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. With the Gulf of Mexico on one side and St. Andrews Bay on the other, visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and much more. The park has a mile-and-a-half of pristine beaches ideal for fishing and swimming. For those who prefer staying dry, hiking trails through pines, dunes, and coastal plant communities provide a scenic adventure. The park also offers a campground for overnight stays, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers.

Shell Island

If you’re looking for an untouched paradise, Shell Island is the place to be. This seven-mile-long barrier island remains undeveloped, offering a rare opportunity to experience a beach as nature intended. Shell Island is accessible by shuttle, private boat, or kayak, making the journey part of the adventure. The island is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, ghost crabs, sea turtles, and a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the shorebirds nesting in the dunes. Families can enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. The Shell Island Shuttle provides transportation and allows for beach equipment rentals, making for a perfect day trip.

Pier Park

Pier Park is the heart of entertainment in Panama City Beach. It offers some of the best Panama City Beach, Florida, attractions for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination. The SkyWheel features a 200-foot observation wheel, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and a ropes course. Dave & Buster’s combines dining, gaming, and sports viewing, and the Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze provides a fun and challenging head-to-head experience. Shopping options are abundant, with stores like Forever 21, Target, and Marshalls, and dining choices range from casual eateries to seafood venues like Hook’d Pier Bar and Grill and The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House. Pier Park is a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

A premier family attraction, Shipwreck Island Waterpark delivers a day filled with aquatic fun. The park offers three million gallons of water attractions, including a 500,000-gallon wave pool, a lazy river, and thrilling water slides like Tree Top Drop and Free Fall. For younger children, the Tadpole Hole provides interactive play areas. Other exciting adventures include the Rapid River Run, Zoom Flume, and Skull Island. Season passes are available, providing unlimited summer access and discounts on food and merchandise. Don’t miss the refreshing treats and beverages scattered throughout the park to keep you cool.

Duplin Winery

For a more adult-centered activity, visiting Duplin Winery is a delightful experience. Wine tastings are a highlight, allowing guests to sample at least ten preselected Duplin wines. Each tasting, priced at $16, includes a gourmet cheese dip, homemade gourmet crackers, and a glass of wine. Though the winery does not have a full-service bistro, it offers charcuterie boards, gourmet crackers, and fudge for a scrumptious snack. The knowledgeable associates will walk you through the flavors and history of each wine, making for an informative and enjoyable experience.

Gulf World Marine Park

Gulf World Marine Park is a fantastic attraction for families and marine life enthusiasts. Rain or shine, visitors can enjoy daily shows and exhibits featuring bottlenose dolphins, harbor seals, African penguins, stingrays, and rough-toothed dolphins. The park offers interactive exhibits, and the VIP package allows guests to view all exhibits in one visit. The bottlenose dolphin show is particularly captivating, showcasing an array of flips, leaps, and twists. Many dolphins at Gulf World have been born at or rescued by the marine park, adding a heartwarming aspect to the visit. The sea lion and rough-toothed dolphin show is both charming and funny, often leaving visitors with lasting memories.

Zoo World Zoological Park

Zoo World Zoological Park is a great option for families looking to take a break from the beach while still enjoying outdoor activities. The zoo houses fascinating exotic animals, including giraffes, alligators, lemurs, and more, offering close encounters that are sure to intrigue kids and inspire an interest in science and nature. Interactive experiences such as petting a sloth, snuggling with a lemur, and meeting an alligator provide memorable moments. The free-flight aviary, where exotic birds fly around visitors, and the animal feeding experiences, where guests can feed alligators, giraffes, or budgies, create unforgettable interactions. The Feed Everyone Combo package allows you to feed all three animals for just $10.

Panama City Beach Condo Rentals with Beachscapes

Vacation rentals are another excellent option for accommodation in Panama City Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront house, a cozy condo, or a luxury family home, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your needs. Our Panama City Beach condo rentals provide a more private and personalized experience, often equipped with full kitchens, outdoor spaces, and exclusive beach access. Here at Beachscapes Vacation Rentals, we ensure a scenic and relaxing stay, with many properties located close to popular attractions and dining spots. Panama City Beach, Florida, offers an abundance of attractions and activities that cater to all interests and ages. From the natural beauty of St. Andrew’s State Park and Shell Island to entertainment hubs like Pier Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark, there’s no shortage of family-friendly things to do in Panama City Beach. With various accommodation options, including condos in Panama City Beach, Florida, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place to stay. Our Panama City Beach vacation rentals promise a memorable and enjoyable vacation for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the endless possibilities this coastal paradise has to offer.