When we think of summer days, many of us think of lazy days at the beach—bright summer sun, water to cool off in, and fun times. But there is a lot more to do and see. Here is what an itinerary might look like for your summer in Panama City Beach.
Day 1: Get in the Water
Of course, the water is part of why you’re visiting Panama City Beach so don’t delay. Start off with a JetSurf adventure at JetSurf PCB. Their boards can reach speeds of 37 mph and the facility is located in an area with limited motor boating for safety.
Dining: Bayou Joe’s Marina and Grill and Uncle Ernie’s are great for casual fare on the waterfront. For a fun meal at a vintage counter-style seafood shop try the highly rated Gene’s Oyster Bar.
Day 2: Take a Dive
Another day in the water for you. Drive out to Saint Andrews State Park and learn how to scuba dive! Perfect for everyone from the uninitiated to the professional diver, these experiences are tailored to the state of the ocean at the time of your visit. Keep in mind that ocean conditions determine exact times of departure and dives.
If you have young children, try snorkeling instead. Dolphin and Snorkeling Tours Inc. offers a great tour of Shell Island where you can view dolphins and other sea life. You can also book a private charter for your family so you customize your experience.
Dining: From pizza to wings, Patches Pub and Grill has something for everyone. This casual restaurant won the Best of Bay awards from 2016 through 2020. If you’re looking for upscale, try The Grand Marlin, which features local seafood and has vegetarian/vegan options.
Day 3: Theme Park Tour
You may be a little waterlogged by now, so a trip on land might be exactly what you need for your Panama City Beach summer vacation. At Coconut Creek Family Fun Park, there is a huge walking maze and two jungle-setting mini golf courses, and they often have special deals going.
Get your Mario Andretti on at the go cart tracks at Race City, which claims the “fastest, tallest and steepest go kart track in all of Panama City Beach.” There are lots of rides for older and younger children, a sky coaster, indoor mini golf, a huge arcade, bumper boats and spinning bumper cars.
Dining: Chewie’s Kitchen is a highly rated casual dining restaurant for the whole family. If you are looking for some regional fare, try Dat Cajun Place or the Saltwater Grill, both well-liked.
Day 4: Nature, Museums and Shopping
Start off at St. Andrews State Park, where you can learn about local geography and wildlife on land as well as in the sea. Be sure to ask about Teddy the Hermit!
If you’re looking for a place to buy souvenirs and gifts for people back home, check out Pier Park. From Accessories on the Boardwalk and Brooklyn’s Dog Boutique to the Candymaker and Coastal Casuals, you can find something for everyone you had to leave behind on your summer journey to Panama City Beach.
Don’t need souvenirs? Then go to the ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory. You can feed alligators, pet a sloth, walk through their amazing aviary, and experience a giraffe close-up—very close up! Be sure to see the Lemur Experience, an interactive experience with the endangered Lemur (for 5 and up). And you’re in luck—the park doesn’t “charge extra for giraffe kisses.”
Don’t miss Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum. There are galleries, a 3D moving theater, laser race, mirror maze and exhibits of the strangest record-holdings in the world.
Dining: After all this activity you’re going to be hungry, so feed yourself well at Copper Tap Grill, Alice’s on Bayview or Ferrucci Ristorante if you’re in the mood for modern Italian.
Day 5: Back on the Water
No trip to Panama City Beach is complete without a trip to Gulf World Marine Park. This park offers lots of different interactive programs. Want to be pushed up from the water by dolphins or hold their fins while they pull you through the water? This is the place for you.
Once you’re all dried off and are ready to relax, Paradise Adventures offers a sunset catamaran trip around the coast. You can also book a private tour or simply rent your own boat for a more exclusive experience.
Dining: After your catamaran trip, try The Shrimp Boat, or for more upscale tastes take a drive to g. Foley’s or Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant. For sushi lovers, Fin’s Japanese Sushi & Grill is a big favorite. All are highly rated.
A trip to Panama City Beach is one you won’t forget, so make sure you book with the experts at Vacations Perfected to get the best for your money on your summer in Panama City Beach. Contact us today!