Panama City Beach, Florida, is located in the Florida Panhandle along the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico. The white sugar-sand beaches of Panama City Beach are considered some of the most beautiful on earth, and the countless restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shops, and family-friendly attractions do well to complement the natural beauty of this top southern destination.

With an average of 320 days of sunshine a year. Use those sunny days to try some of the top things to do in this former college Spring Break capital. Beach trips, fishing, and watersports are some of the most popular activities for travelers, but these outdoor excursions are only a fraction of the offerings in PCB. Theme parks, museums, and a bustling entertainment district provide food and fun for the entire family. If you’re on a kid-free getaway, Panama City Beach’s nightlife is legendary! Whether searching for a place to relax, or a hip spot to mingle, there are countless dance clubs, music venues, and totally chill beachside bars to choose from. For families, couples, and best buds alike, Panama City Beach offers an excellent choice for an unforgettable getaway.

Geography

Panama City Beach is located along Florida’s Panhandle, bordering the Gulf of Mexico. The main highways and roads that run through the city are U.S. Route 98 and Florida State Road 30. It takes about 6 hours to drive from Daytona Beach, 5.5 hours from Tampa, and 5.5 hours from Orlando.

Neighborhoods

Historic Downtown Panama City is the heart of the city, combining its historic charm with a vibrant business district. There are tons of fantastic boutiques, antique shops, and dining options here.
The Historic St. Andrews area is a charming neighborhood teeming with marina activity. Home to the Shrimp Boat restaurant, it features some of the best nightlife and dining in the area. You can explore historic buildings, take a stroll in Bayside Park, or grab a drink at one of its fine establishments.
Glenwood is a neighborhood with a rich history and culture. It has an active recreation center and is filled with charm and personality.

Top Places to Visit

M.B. Miller County Pier

Sitting directly above the Gulf of Mexico waters, the M.B. Miller County Pier offers locals and tourists alike a glimpse into why Panama City Beach has grown to become a top U.S. destination. Fish for native Gulf species like the Redfish, Gulf Flounder, Spanish mackerel, or Blacktip Shark, or simply stroll the massive waterfront as you wait for a chance to catch the sunset over the emerald waters.

Pier Park

Pier Park is a 900,000 plus sq ft shopping and entertainment complex. Experience the best shopping Northwest Florida has to offer with retail shops selling goods in fashion, jewelry, sporting goods, games, home décor, and more along with restaurants and entertainment including an IMAX theater! If looking for a change of scenery, take a short drive to Miramar Beach, Florida, and visit the Silver Sands Outlet Mall. This 110-store premium mall is fitted with the latest and greatest designer outlets offering factory discounted pricing.

State Andrew’s State Park

The park is located just outside of the city and is a beautiful natural reserve brimming with hiking trails, fantastic bird-watching spots, and numerous opportunities for biking. There are also water activities available such as kayaking, fishing, and scuba diving

Climate

Enjoy a vacation filled with sunshine during your stay in Panama City Beach! Northwest Florida typically is graced with an average of 320 days of sunshine a year. Mid-Western and New England residents, as well as many foreign visitors, find themselves unprepared for the warm, humid climate producing hot, hot, summers, and no dry season. The warm season lasting May 24th to September 30th, produces an average temperature of 83.5 degrees Fahrenheit, while the “cold season”, lasting November 30th to March 5th, cools even the bravest beachgoers with an average daily temperature of 56 degrees (and a low of only 46 degrees)! Be prepared to dress in layers in the late fall, winter, and early spring, and peel those layers down to a bathing suit when May comes around.