How is the Beach in Panama City? Discover A 2023 Review

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach is a popular vacation destination for people of all ages. Known for its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand, this beach is a paradise for beachgoers. With plenty of activities and attractions, visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, shopping, and dining options.

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How is the Beach in Panama City?

Thankfully, Panama City Beach faired well during this last Hurricane season and is in great shape. Panama City Beach’s signature 27 miles of pristine white sand shoreline are all still with restaurants, bars, hotels, fun activities like snorkeling, parasailing, and tons of parks to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or an exciting adventure on the water, Panama City Beach has it all. The beach is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. For those seeking more of an adrenaline rush, jet ski rentals and parasailing are available.

With over 27 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the beach. The sand is soft and powdery, and the water is warm and inviting. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere or a more lively party scene, Panama City Beach has something for everyone.

Location and Accessibility

Panama City Beach is located on the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle. It is a popular vacation destination during certain times of the year for people from all over the world. The beach is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus.

If you are traveling by car, Panama City Beach is located just off of Highway 98. There is plenty of parking available, but it can get crowded during peak season. If you are flying in, the nearest airport is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, which is about 20 minutes away from the beach. There are also several shuttle services that operate between the airport and the beach.

If you’re driving in, check out our article on the best road trip routes through Florida.

Once you arrive at the beach, there are several public access points. These access points are marked with signs and are easy to find. Some of the access points have parking available, while others require a short walk from nearby parking areas.

If you are staying in one of the many hotels or resorts in the area, most offer shuttle services to and from the beach. Some hotels even have private beach access for their guests.

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Beach Quality

Panama City Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, which attract visitors from all over the world. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. The water is warm and inviting, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities.

The beach is also quite wide, providing plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the sun and sand. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a more lively area with plenty of activity, you’ll find what you’re looking for on Panama City Beach.

In addition to its natural beauty, the beach is also home to a variety of amenities and facilities.

There are numerous beachfront restaurants and bars, as well as public restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, and there are plenty of water sports and activities to choose from, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

Overall, the beach quality in Panama City is excellent, making it a top destination for beach lovers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an action-packed adventure on the water, you won’t be disappointed with the beaches in Panama City.

Activities and Attractions

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Panama City Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. But there’s more to do here than just sunbathe and swim. Here are some of the top activities and attractions to check out:

  • St. Andrews State Park: This park is a must-visit for nature lovers. It offers hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. You can also take a shuttle boat to Shell Island, a barrier island with pristine beaches and wildlife.
  • Gulf World Marine Park: This marvine park is perfect for families. You can watch dolphin and sea lion shows, get up close and personal with stingrays, and even swim with dolphins.
  • Pier Park: If you’re looking for shopping and entertainment, Pier Park is the place to go. It has over 120 stores, restaurants, and attractions, including a movie theater and an amusement park.
  • Shipwreck Island Waterpark: Cool off from the heat at this waterpark, which has over 20 water attractions, including a lazy river and a wave pool. It happens to be one of our top picks for the best water parks in Florida.

Aside from these attractions, Panama City Beach also has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, especially in the downtown area.

Overall, there’s something for everyone in Panama City Beach. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, you won’t be disappointed.

Accommodations and Dining

Panama City Beach offers a wide range of accommodations and dining options to suit every budget and taste. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone.

Accommodations

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If you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront experience, Panama City Beach has plenty of options. The Sheraton Bay Point Resort offers stunning views of St. Andrews Bay and features a private beach, golf course, and spa. The Hilton Panama City Beach Resort is another popular choice, with its oceanfront location and spacious rooms.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options available. The Beachside Resort Panama City Beach offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price, while the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Panama City Beach is a great choice for families.

Dining

Panama City Beach is known for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants that serve up fresh catches of the day. One of the most popular is Captain Anderson’s, which has been a local institution since 1967. The restaurant serves up a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, shrimp scampi, and lobster tail.

For a more casual dining experience, try the Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant. Located right on the beach, the restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Another popular choice is the Runaway Island Beach Bar & Grill, which features live music and a menu that includes seafood, burgers, and tacos.

No matter what your taste or budget, Panama City Beach has plenty of options for accommodations and dining. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a casual seafood shack, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.

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Conclusion

Overall, Panama City Beach is a great destination for beach lovers. The beaches are clean, the water is clear, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or get active with water sports, there’s something for everyone.

One thing to keep in mind is that the beaches can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot. Additionally, some areas of the beach may be more crowded than others, so it’s worth exploring different sections to find the perfect spot for you.

If you’re planning a trip to Panama City Beach, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated. The sun can be intense, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to take precautions to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.