Panama City
The ocean is calling, and what better way to answer than by heading out to Panama City, Florida. Located in Florida's Panhandle and practically surrounded by azure waters, Panama City offers a 20-mile stretch of snow-white sand and calm, bright blue tides. Diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing are just off the shoreline, while golf courses keep that view in sight. Hop on the trolley and explore all of Panama City's districts, where you will be presented with a dizzying display of contemporary shops, restaurants, and galleries to delight and tickle your senses in the warm Florida sun.
Panama City's slogan refers to "The World's Most Beautiful Beaches" due to their unique alabaster beaches lining the city, but there is so much more to Panama City than this. There are also gorgeous hiking trails to behold and eco-tours that will have you skimming across salt marshes or snatching up a pair of binoculars to see a heron take to the sky.
Your day will be chock-full of cool, embracing water, culinary treasures pulled right from the sea, sunsets to behold, and it's all just one private flight away.
Panama City at a Glance
Since 1885, Panama City has been booming in the industrial sector, including shipbuilding and shipyards, and has always been known for throwing its doors wide open to visitors and residents alike. It is one of the fastest-growing cities between Tallahassee and Pensacola because so many new residents have been settling on the beachside to lay down roots. The city's affordable housing and family-friendly environment also lends itself as attractive to tourists looking to make their getaway permanent.
But if you are just planning a visit, you are not alone. Panama City sees visiting tourists all year, no matter the season. If you are planning your Panama City trip, try and aim for May through October. That late spring through early fall is the perfect weather for exploring the city, the wilderness, and the beachlines of Panama City. Unless you are planning to party with the Spring Break crowd, avoid March and April, as this is their biggest uptick in beach-goers.
Panama City's Location Located on St Andrews Bay, Panama City is nestled in the Florida Panhandle and along the Emerald Coast. The city limits expand a 35.4 square mile area, but beyond that, there are parks, marshlands, and beaches left to explore. It has a humid subtropical climate with short, mild winters and long, hot and humid summers. So, you will not have to wait out winter too long before jumping into those turquoise waters!
When flying into Panama City, Northwest Florida Beaches International will greet you just 14 miles north from its epicenter, so you will not have too far to drive before you can relax on those famous porcelain beaches.
Panama City Attractions
Banish 'boredom' from your dictionary, because while you are in Panama City, FL, you will have your pick of exciting adventure, sunbathing relaxation, and a city that comes alive from sunup to sundown. On the beach you can enjoy the surf, or hit the water for parasailing, diving, deep-sea fishing, boating and so much more, such as planning a trip to Shell Island, so named for all the beautiful shells you can collect for souvenirs. Or, walk down Russell-Fields pier to catch a sunset that cannot be matched.
Explore hiking trails in Camp Helen Park or enjoy music back in the city at either Aaron Bessant or Frank Brown Parks. Explore the "Oyster Trail" for fresh-caught and shucked oysters and then take a walking tour through Historic St. Andrews. Shop until you drop in Pier Park's open-air complex and then dine out at the Saltwater Grill or Anderson's Seafood Market before checking out the sparkling nightlife Panama City has to offer.
Hickory Head
Straw Bay Islands
Brush Islands
Rattlesnake Head
Red Bull Island
Alys Beach
Audubon Island
Pitts Island
Oliver Stadium
Martin Islands
East River Island
Round Timber Island
Poley Islands
Mccabe Island
Jersey Islands
Rocky Head
Buck Head
Red Bug Island
Cowford Island
Hicks Head
Lynn Haven Golf Course
Raffield Island
Boggy Head
Crash Island
Restaurants in Panama City