The Best Water Activities to Stay Cool this Summer in Panama City Beach

Summer is in full swing and if you are looking for a way to cool off, Panama City Beach is the place to be! With miles of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, there are plenty of water activities to keep you busy.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of our favorite water activities that are perfect for travelers and families. From swimming and sunbathing on the beach, to kayaking and dolphin tours, there is something for everyone in Panama City Beach!

Beach Activities

One of our favorite water activities is swimming on the beach. Panama City Beach is ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States, and it’s easy to see why! The sand is soft and white, and the water is crystal-clear. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.

Swimming in the ocean and enjoying the calm waves is one of the most popular and relaxing things to do on the beach. With over 27 miles of coastline, there is plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the waves.  We recommend the beaches at Panama City Beach & Pier, St. Andrew's State Park and Schooner's.

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before you head out, and be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

If you are looking for a more active beach experience, there are plenty of options for that as well:

Bodyboarding and Surfing

Bodyboarding and surfing are two popular water sports in Panama City Beach.  Not only will you have a thrill riding the waves, but surfing is also a very active sport that is great for your health as it involves all the muscles in your body. If you have never tried either of these before, there are plenty of places to rent equipment and take lessons.

Kayaking

Another great water activity is kayaking. Several hotels and condominiums have kayak rental companies at their facilities where you can rent a kayak for the day. This is a great way to explore the coast and get some exercise. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, and a hat.

Jet Skiing

For those who want a more thrilling experience, jet skiing is a great option.  Riding the waves on a jet ski is a great way to get your adrenaline pumping.

There are several companies that offer jet ski rentals, and you can even take a tour to explore the Gulf of Mexico coast or to visit Shell Island. This is a great activity for couples or groups of friends. Just be sure to follow the safety rules and wear a life jacket.

Parasailing

For those who want to see Panama City Beach from a bird’s eye view, parasailing is a great option and an experience like no other. The gentle floating and stunning views make it worth every penny!

Parasailing is an activity that allows visitors of all ages to experience the beauty of paradise from a new perspective. Vacationers strap themselves onto tow boats, where they are then held aloft by captured air cushions while enjoying their view in what resembles giant parachutes.

There are several companies that offer parasailing tours, and it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Dolphin Tours

One of our favorite water activities is taking a dolphin tour.  A Panama City Beach dolphin tour is truly an experience you won’t want to miss out on. There are numerous tours catering specifically for locals and visitors alike, taking guests into the best locations where they can see schools of playful dolphins! This is a great way to see the dolphins up close and learn about their behavior.

From half-day adventures that allow enough time at each site as well as full days with multiple stops throughout these beautiful waters. It's a great and memorable way to spend time with family or friends.

Scuba Diving

For those who are looking for an adventurous water activity, scuba diving is a great option. Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world and see things you’ve never seen before. There's nothing quite like diving into the Gulf waters and having a first hand look at the marine life and shipwrecks at the bottom of the ocean floor.

You don't have to be an expert to scuba dive. There are several companies in Panama City Beach that offer scuba diving lessons, and they will provide all the equipment you need. Also, there are several dive sites that are perfect for beginners, so just make sure to take a beginner’s class and follow the safety rules.

photo: shipwreck island waterpark

Water Parks

If you’re looking for a more thrilling water activity, Panama City Beach has several water parks that are perfect for travelers and families. These parks have slides, pools, and other activities for kids of all ages.

Shipwreck Island Water Park is one of the most popular water parks in the area. With slides, pools, and a lazy river, there is something for everyone. You can enjoy the Great Shipwreck, which features an impressive 17th century sailing vessel replica and has its own zip line into one of three blue lagoon pools, or try out other slides like Rapid River Run or Zoom Flume.

Gulf World Marine Park is another great option for those looking for a more educational experience. At Gulf World, you can learn about the marine animals and wildlife in the Gulf of Mexico, as well as enjoy the several daily shows and exhibits. Though the main attraction at Gulf World Marine Park, which is sure to cool you off, is the unique experience of swimming with the dolphins. There are different packages available to interact and swim with the dolphins, so depending on what you’re looking for, there is surely an option for you!

Summary

There are plenty of great water activities to keep you cool this summer in Panama City Beach. So, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience or something more relaxed, there is definitely an activity for you.  From swimming and sunbathing on the beach, to kayaking and dolphin tours, there is no shortage of fun water activities to keep you cool all summer long.

Get out there and enjoy the water this summer! Panama City Beach has something for everyone.