Florida Vacations - Panama City Beach

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Panama City Beach

100 miles east of Pensacola, 100 miles south west of Tallahassee

Panama City Beach has traditionally been a vacation destination for millions not able, or willing, to patronize the more expensive vacation destinations in other parts of Florida. 

An old-fashioned family vacation is still possible here, with colorful amusement parks and arcades, miniature golf links, souvenir shops and a big, beautiful beach.

The unending strips of bars, amusement parks and old-fashioned motels still remain as a reminder of vacations in times past.

This vibrant and bustling destination now offers luxury resorts and condominium accommodation, hotels and a variety of inns and vacation rentals along its 20 miles (32km) of sand beach.

The appeal of a great beach, fishing, boating, wreck diving and golf have made Panama City Beach an increasingly popular vacation choice. Panama City Beach is a seasonal resort town with many restaurants and attractions closing between October and March. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Delta, Northwest and US Airways fly into Panama City/Bay County International Airport  located in nearby Panama City. Amtrak transcontinental service on Sunset Limited stops at Chipley, 45 miles (72km) north of Panama City. A trolley runs five times a day servicing the beach area. Taxi cabs are available throughout the area. Rentals of bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles are available.

Panama City Beach Vacation Highlights

The Miracle Strip Amusement Park is dominated by a 105-foot-high (32m) roller coaster but it's just one of over 30 rides, including a traditional carousel for the little ones. The adjoining Shipwreck Island Water Park offers water amusement for all ages and levels of stamina. Gulf World Marine Park features shows with talented dolphins and an assortment of marine creatures.

Zoo World Zoological & Botanical Park is an educational zoo and a participates in a species survival program to protect endangered species. There are over 350 species including orangutans and other primates, big cats, alligators and reptiles. The center features a walk-through aviary, a bat exhibit, and a petting zoo.

St. Andrews State Park at the east end of the beach has more than 1,000 acres of preserved pristine sand dunes. Picnic areas are are available on both the gulf beach and the Grand Lagoon. For anglers, there are jetties and a boat ramp and a nature trail for hikers and walkers. The area is home to foxes, coyotes, and a herd of deer. Overnight camping is permitted. 

The uninhabited nature preserve of Shell Island, a narrow barrier island accessible only by boat,  is a popular spot for shelling, swimming or just enjoying the beach. Access is via the Shell Island Shuttle. Several cruise boats go to Shell Island and some offer a glass bottom for viewing.

There is no shortage of rental boats available from the local marinas for exploring the local waterways. Jet boats, waverunners, inflatables, and other water sports equipment is available from several rental outlets. There are numerous cruises available. A favourite with children is the 2 hr swashbuckling tour on the pirate ship replica, Sea Dragon. The Glass Bottom Boat, based at Treasure Island Marina, provides a popular narrated educational tour that includes underwater viewing, dolphin spotting, bird feeding and a stop-over at Shell Island. 

There is fishing in abundance at Panama City Beach, ranging from charter boats, shared party boats and casting a line from the 2 local piers.  The waters off Panama City have more than 50 artificial reefs and shipwrecks that are a popular spot for diving and snorkelling. As with all the popular destinations in Florida, there is no shortage of golf courses. The area offers a variety of course layouts ranging from 72 hole championship play to 9 hole resort courses.

Other Regional Vacation Centers

Destin vacations::  Apalachicola vacations  ::  Pensacola vacations


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