Find the Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach Florida with Mom

Panama City Beach offers a blend of coastal charm and vibrant activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip with your mom. From sun-soaked beaches to unique shopping experiences, this thriving locale provides countless ways to unwind, connect, and explore.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Panama City Beach. Let’s delve into the many opportunities awaiting you in this beloved Florida destination.

Shopping at Pier Park

Pier Park is a lively hub of retail therapy and entertainment. Located in the heart of Panama City Beach, this bustling complex offers a wide range of stores, from popular brands to boutique shops. Here, you’ll uncover everything from stylish apparel at Old Navy and Sephora to playful gifts at Toy Kingdom and Build-A-Bear Workshop. If your mom loves unique finds, the Good Dog Boutique offers specialty pet items that celebrate the joy of four-legged companionship. Foodies can stop by Pepper Palace to discover bold flavors, spices, and gourmet sauces to add to their cooking at home. Shopping at Pier Park is more than just a retail experience. Amid the shopping spree, you can enjoy scenic views, grab a bite at nearby eateries, or simply stroll hand-in-hand, savoring the lively ambiance. It’s a perfect way to combine leisure with some quality time.

Visit Duplin Winery

For a refined yet approachable activity, Duplin Winery offers mom-friendly relaxation coupled with an exploration of Southern-crafted wines. The inviting atmosphere of the winery is perfect for unwinding after a busy day in Panama City Beach. Here, you can enjoy elegant wine tastings guided by their knowledgeable staff. Sampling the award-winning selections of Duplin wines is a journey through flavor and history. You’ll have the opportunity to try at least eight preselected wines during a tasting, or opt for a wine flight featuring four different options for a shorter experience. Pair these notable wines with gourmet crackers, charcuterie boards, dips, and handmade fudge to complete the indulgence. Events like Music Bingo and Trivia Nights encourage laid-back moments of joy, whether your mom enjoys a competitive challenge or simply soaking in the lively vibes over a delicious glass of wine. Duplin Winery combines charm, relaxation, and memorable experiences all in one destination, making it a must-visit on your Panama City Beach itinerary.

Take a Trip to Shell Island

Exploring Shell Island is a treat for nature lovers and an excellent escape from the bustling main beaches. A short trip from Panama City Beach, FL, allows you to step into a tranquil world of crystal-clear waters, sugar-white sands, and thriving wildlife. Completely unspoiled and free of commercial development, Shell Island offers a pristine landscape for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and other outdoor activities. Shell Island showcases Florida’s biodiversity, with animal residents like deer, ghost crabs, and sea turtles calling the area home. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting the nesting shorebirds that dot the dunes and scrub forest. In the surrounding waters, a pod of bottlenose dolphins is known to frequent the area—a magical sight for visitors lucky enough to catch a glimpse. For easy access, the Shell Island Shuttle operates from Panama City Beach and offers an efficient transportation option, allowing visitors to bring coolers and beach gear on board. Various rentals are also available to enhance the experience, from kayaks to paddleboards. Whether it’s catching some sun or snorkeling in the turquoise waters, Shell Island makes for a serene yet activity-filled day trip that you and your mom can cherish.

Have a Spa Day

Sharing a spa day with your mom is an excellent way to reconnect and enjoy a moment of tranquility together. Panama City Beach, FL, is home to many luxury spas and wellness centers where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. Whether it’s alleviating travel tension or simply immersing yourselves in peaceful surroundings, spa services provide an intimate and refreshing bonding experience. Combine the day with other relaxing activities, like a lingering beachfront walk or yoga on the shore, for a truly restorative outing.

Enjoy Beachfront Dining

Dining in Panama City Beach blends coastal freshness and delectable flavors, offering mom-approved options across various venues. For a culinary experience that incorporates stunning views, visit Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar. Combining fresh Gulf seafood, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere, Sharky’s delivers a lively yet relaxing environment to enjoy a flavorful meal. The Grand Marlin stands out with a commitment to freshness, offering menus that change daily based on local catches. This restaurant prides itself on scratch-made dishes and high-quality ingredients to elevate your dining experience. Alternatively, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House is recognized as a family favorite and serves iconic dishes alongside unparalleled beach scenery. With such varied beachfront dining options, an evening meal along the shore allows you to soak in the sounds and sights of the Gulf while treating your mom to unforgettable flavors.

Browse Local Shops at Little Village

Little Village encompasses the soulful charm of Panama City Beach through its collection of fair-trade goods, handcrafted items, and artistic merchandise from around the globe. This waterfront venue offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that serves as a break from the sun and sand. Your mom will appreciate the thoughtful inventory, much of which supports ethical wages and community improvement programs. Whether browsing distinctive trinkets from local artists or purchasing items with a meaningful connection to global communities, Little Village epitomizes the joy of gifting and mindful shopping. Shopping here feels purposeful and inspired, making it a rewarding activity that fosters connection through shared appreciation for creativity and fairness.

Have a Paint Party with Beach Art Group

Creative activities like painting offer a chance to connect over shared accomplishments and tap into artistic expression. Beach Art Group hosts engaging paint parties suitable for moms and their families, with no prior experience necessary. With step-by-step guidance from experienced instructors, attendees can create their own art treasures using provided supplies. From family bonding to bachelorette events, this group brings painting to life no matter the occasion. Bring your favorite beverages and snacks, then dive into a world of color and creativity. Engaging in the arts creates lasting memories and gives you something tangible to take home—a piece of Panama City Beach to cherish long after your visit.

Panama City Beach Condo Rentals with Beachscapes

Your trip with mom becomes even more enjoyable with accommodations that provide home-like comfort in this Florida destination. Panama City Beach condo rentals through Beachscapes offer ideal lodging for maximizing convenience and creating a cozy retreat after a full day of activities. Our vacation rentals in Panama City Beach often feature beachfront access, well-appointed interiors, and proximity to the area’s top attractions. Staying in one of our condos in Panama City Beach, Florida, ensures your downtime feels as restorative as your adventures, enhancing the overall experience of your vacation.

Beachscapes specializes in providing spaces that suit your travel needs while reflecting the charm of the destination itself. Whether you want to watch the sunset from a private balcony or prepare a home-cooked meal for your mom, these rentals allow you to personalize your stay and create unforgettable moments together. For anyone wondering about the best things to do in Panama City Beach, this family-friendly city effortlessly delivers lasting memories, particularly when shared with someone special. Whether it’s your first time visiting or a return to this beautiful destination, Panama City Beach remains an exceptional place to celebrate the bond between mother and child.