— AREA GUIDE —

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is one of the Emerald Coast’s many gems and some would say it shines the brightest!

This city offers 27 miles of sugar-sand beaches that meet the sparkling Gulf of Mexico. It’s no surprise that cruising, fishing, and water sports are popular here. Inland, it’s restaurants, shopping, and attractions galore!

If you’re looking for inspiration to make the best of your own trip to Panama City Beach, you’ve come to the right place.

Best Restaurants in Panama City Beach

Foodies will absolutely be in heaven here! Narrowing down the best restaurants in Panama City beach is no easy feat but here are a few favorites.

Pineapple Willy’s

When not just tourists but also locals flock to a restaurant, you know you’re in for a treat. Pineapple Willy’s is one of the premier restaurants in the area, located right on the beach!

Seafood reigns supreme here, with everything ranging from fresh oysters to po’ boys. The ribs are a local favorite, as well!

Enjoy a frozen daiquiri while you revel in the sun, sea, and sand all around Pineapple Willy’s.

The Wicked Wheel Bar & Grill

It’s hard to decide whether the food or the decor at Wicked Wheel is better, though let’s settle on it being a glorious tie.

Wicked Wheel is an eccentric eatery with lots of vintage decor and furnishings, with a huge focus on motorcycles and hot rods.

This is one of the best restaurants in Panama City Beach if you’re hungry for fried chicken. The wings here are especially amazing!

Firefly

Looking for something a bit more intimate? Among Panama City Beach restaurants, Firefly is one of the best places to bring that special someone. This restaurant is also super popular with families and groups who want to go a bit fancier.

Here you’ll find a mix of steakhouse dishes and seafood, including an extensive (and delicious) sushi menu!

Things to Do in Panama City Beach

It’s honestly hard to get bored here; there are so many cool things to do in Panama City Beach. The sun hardly ever stops shining and the good times never stop rolling!

Cool Down at Shipwreck Island Waterpark

A visit to Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the perfect way to keep cool on a sweltering summer day. Family fun is the name of the game here!

You can make your way down a lazy river or raging river, then try the waterslides and zipline before going to the wave pool or the mini-golf courses. There’s also a dedicated toddler pool for the little ones.

Explore St. Andrews State Park & Shell Island

St. Andrews State Park is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of beachfront in the area. The real gem here is Shell Island. Though not really an island, this 700-acre stretch of untouched beach is like a slice of heaven on Earth.

The waters around Shell Island are fantastic for swimming and snorkeling. St. Andrews State Park overall is also great for camping, having some awesome campground facilities.

Be Wowed by the Oddities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Interested in more quirky things to do in Panama City Beach? The exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum range from odd to spooky to awe-inspiring.

Here you’ll find a number of mind-bending attractions, in addition to the classic Ripley’s Odditorium, with all the weird artifacts on display.

Events in Panama City Beach

As a major Gulf Coast destination, there are events in Panama City Beach year-round. Whenever you visit, you can be sure there’ll be something going on!

UNwineD (March, April)

The Gulf Coast takes food and drink festivals seriously; UNwineD is no exception. In either March or April each year, PCB invites visitors from all over to spend the weekend tasting wine, craft beer, and other liquor.

You won’t be left with an empty stomach, though, as local restaurants and chefs also take part in the festival; you can sample their fare.

Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam (June)

If you’re looking for music-related events in Panama City Beach, look no further. The Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam is the city’s largest music event, held in June each year.

This four-day music festival brings in the biggest names in country and southern rock, so tickets always sell out fast.

Also, patrons who are active or retired members of the military get access to an exclusive tent with extra perks and amenities.

New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop (December)

Anywhere on the Emerald Coast would make a fantastic place to ring in the new year but Panama City Beach is no doubt one of the best!

The New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop takes place in Pier Park, the city’s premier shopping and entertainment district.

The whole celebration starts around 5:30 pm, with live music, games, and activities. There are actually two ball drops, one at 8 pm and the other at midnight!