Panama City Beach
You'll find two protected nature preserves nearby if you want to occasionally trade your flip-flops in for hiking shoes.
Soak in the sun in the daytime and party at night
Both nature lovers and partygoers love to live or vacation in Panama City Beach. Its location on the Gulf of Mexico accounts for miles of white sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters. You'll also find two protected nature preserves nearby if you want to occasionally trade your flip-flops in for hiking shoes.
Panama City Beach grew out of nearby Panama City. The population of Panama City Beach now stands at about 19,000, and it continues to grow. This area started experiencing a shift in real estate in the early 2000s. Luxury high-rise condos and expansive single homes now replace tired motels and some of the older homes.
The weather almost always cooperates, making this beachfront town an ideal destination for families, retirees, and vacationers.
WHAT TO LOVE
• Endless beaches and a variety of water activities
• Sunshine 11 months of the year
• A lot of opportunities to enjoy nature such as nature preserves like St. Andrews for hiking trails and flora and fauna display
• All kinds of shopping, including boutiques and specialty shops
• Great nightlife scene
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Beach by day, party by night.
DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING
You'll never get bored gazing at the ocean view while dining on the Panama City Beach waterfront. You won't get tired of the cuisine either since the restaurants offer many types of food. Enjoy the freshest seafood or a scrumptious sandwich at Bayou Joe's Marina and Grill. Through Deep Glow Technology, you'll feast your eyes on all kinds of sea life under the dock. Bayou Joe's also serves fantastic breakfasts.
If it's Mexican food you're craving, you won't find any place much more authentic than AuthentiKa Mexican Grille. The owner, Lucy Rodrigues, hails from Michoacán, and she uses recipes she learned from her grandmother. They also serve fabulous libations, including margaritas. Another great option for Mexican cuisine with a festive vibe is Los Antojitos.
If you're in the mood for pizza or another Italian classic, Ferruci Ristorante offers an intimate, comfortable setting with live music. And for a spectacular dining experience, don't miss the Saltwater Grill. Not only will you dine on delicious fresh seafood or a sizzling steak, but they also feature a 25,000-gallon aquarium with exotic creatures to help keep you entertained.
Shopping is a breeze in Panama City Beach. Pier Park North offers over 100 stores, eateries, and bars to keep up your shopping strength. On the waterfront, you'll find all kinds of boutiques and specialty shops, such as Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts. Check out the Salt Shed and Company for home decor and exotic plants. This store occupies a refurbished gas station from the 1970s.
THINGS TO DO
If you love frolicking in the sea and engaging in watersports, you'll appreciate the seemingly endless 27-mile shoreline. It's the perfect place for boating, paddle boarding, swimming, or simply relaxing. Panama City Beach also boasts an impressive nightlife scene. If you're in the mood for karaoke, why not try The Old Beach Bar? Check out the Lotus Café and Juice Bar if you like jazz and vocal jazz. The Salty Goat Saloon features local and touring bands, and they don't charge a cover!
If you're a country music fan, you'll want to give Tootsie's Orchid Lounge a visit. And for more family fun, head to Shipwreck Island Water park, Gulf World Marine Park or Ripley's Believe it or Not.
