Your Complete Guide to Summer Fun in Panama City Beach

Summer is here and it's time to start planning your next beach vacation. If you're looking for a destination that offers miles of pristine sugar-white sand, crystal clear water, and a variety of activities, Panama City Beach, Florida is the perfect spot for you. Whether you're traveling with your family, friends, significant other, or flying solo, this city has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll give you a complete guide of the most popular summer activities and things to do in Panama City Beach.

Hit the Beaches

The main attraction in Panama City Beach is its beaches. The great part about the beaches here is that there are so many to choose from. If you're looking for a quieter spot, head to St. Andrews State Park, where you can explore nature trails, enjoy the scenic views, and sunbathe on the white sand. On the other hand, if you're looking for a party atmosphere with plenty of bars and restaurants, head to Pier Park or Miracle Strip Beach – both destinations offer a lively environment with lots of beachfront entertainment. You can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and jet skis at most beaches if you don't have your own.

Enjoy Water Sports

With its warm, clear waters, Panama City Beach is the perfect spot to try some water sports. Parasailing, kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling are just some of the activities you can enjoy here. If you're looking for something more relaxing, go for a sunset dolphin watching tour.

Take a Dolphin Cruise

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience during your Panama City Beach vacation, we highly recommend taking a dolphin cruise. These cruises will take you out into the Gulf of Mexico where you'll get to witness these beautiful creatures up close and personal. Many of these cruises also offer sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and even fireworks viewing cruises, making them a perfect addition to any summer itinerary.

Explore Nature

If you're a nature lover, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of places to explore in Panama City Beach. Visit the Conservation Park, which has over 24 miles of hiking, biking, and bird-watching trails. Take a boat tour to Shell Island, where you can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other wildlife. You can also visit Gulf World Marine Park or the Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise for a day of family-friendly fun.

Visit Theme Parks and Attractions

When you're not at the beach, there are still plenty of things to do in Panama City Beach. Shipwreck Island Water Park is a great spot for kids and adults alike. For thrill seekers, there's the Cobra Adventure Park with zip lining, go-karts, and mini golf. Visit WonderWorks, an interactive museum that focuses on science, or Ripley's Believe It or Not, a bizarre museum filled with oddities from around the world. Last but not least, you can take a spin on the SkyWheel, a 200-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the coastline.

Enjoy Shopping and Dining

No vacation is complete without some shopping and dining, and Panama City Beach has plenty to offer. Pier Park is a popular outdoor mall with over 120 stores and restaurants. Head to the historic St. Andrews district for local shops and eateries. You can also grab some fresh seafood at local favorites like Capt. Anderson's, Runaway Island, or Schooners.

Conclusion

Panama City Beach is an excellent summer vacation destination that offers plenty of things to do for all ages. From lounging on the beach to trying new water sports, exploring nature parks, visiting unique theme parks and attractions, and dining on fresh seafood, you'll never run out of fun activities in this Florida gem. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable summer adventure in Panama City Beach!