This Gulf Coast city in Florida is known for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and family-friendly attractions like Gulf World Marine Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark.
Panama City, Florida, sits along the Gulf of Mexico. You can walk on the white sandy beaches of St. Andrews State Park, take a boat trip to Shell Island, or explore the city's four historic neighborhoods. The city's location on the coast makes it popular for fishing and water activities.
Exploring St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park covers 1,200 acres on the eastern edge of Panama City. The park has 1.5 miles of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. You can swim in the clear waters, hike through pine forests, or fish from the jetties. Birdwatchers will see many species here, with over 300 types of birds spotted throughout the year. The park has camping facilities for those who want to stay overnight and spend more time in nature.
Discovering Shell Island
A short boat ride from St. Andrews State Park takes you to Shell Island, a 7-mile long barrier island with no development. This stretch of land is popular among nature lovers and beachgoers. You can collect seashells, snorkel in the clear waters, or relax on the quiet beaches. The island has various wildlife, including dolphins that often swim close to shore. Remember to bring supplies as there are no facilities on the island.
Exploring Historic Neighborhoods
Panama City has four distinct historic neighborhoods: St. Andrews, Millville, Glenwood, and Downtown Panama City. Each area has its own character. In St. Andrews, you'll find a fishing village atmosphere with waterfront restaurants and shops. Millville shows the city's industrial past. Glenwood has historic homes and tree-lined streets. Downtown Panama City is the center of the city's cultural and commercial activities, with many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
At the Panama City Center for the Arts, you can see rotating exhibits by local and regional artists. The Bay County History Museum teaches visitors about the area's past, from Native American settlements to the present day. The Panama City Publishing Company Museum is in a building that once printed the city's first newspaper and gives insight into local history. These places help you understand Panama City's past and artistic community.
Water Sports and Outdoor Activities
Panama City's coastal location makes it good for water sports. You can kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski in the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay. You can go on deep-sea fishing trips to catch grouper, snapper, and other Gulf fish. The city's marinas have dolphin-watching tours where you can see these marine mammals in their natural habitat. On land, the city has several parks and nature trails where you can hike, bike, or enjoy the Florida sunshine.
Savoring Local Seafood
Fresh seafood is common in Panama City's restaurants. Local places serve Gulf shrimp, oysters, and fish caught daily. At Uncle Ernie's Bayfront Grill, you can eat seafood dishes while looking at St. Andrews Bay. The restaurant also has non-seafood options, including steaks and Italian dishes, with dinner prices from $15 to $25. Many waterfront restaurants in the St. Andrews area serve fresh seafood with views of the water.
Getting to Panama City
You can reach Panama City by car using U.S. Highway 98. If you're flying, the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Once in the city, renting a car is a good idea to explore the surrounding areas. The city is spread out, so having your own transportation will make it easier to visit different neighborhoods and nearby places like Panama City Beach.
