Where to Have Thanksgiving Dinner in Panama City Beach During Your Vacation
Thanksgiving in Panama City Beach is a holiday like no other. With stunning Gulf views, sandy beaches, and the relaxed charm of a coastal town, celebrating here feels both festive and refreshing. Instead of spending all day in the kitchen, many visitors opt to enjoy a meal out, letting local restaurants handle the cooking while they focus on what really matters: time with family and friends.
Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying a quiet holiday by the shore, PCB offers plenty of places that make Thanksgiving dinner in Panama City Beach a breeze. Below are a few local favorites where guests often spend their holiday. Pair your dinner plans with a stay in a private vacation rental from Vacations Perfected, and you’ll discover just how relaxing Thanksgiving at the beach can be.
Runaway Island
Runaway Island offers the laid-back atmosphere you’d expect from a beachfront restaurant, making it a comfortable spot for holiday dining. Families appreciate its casual yet inviting setting, perfect for enjoying a meal together without the formality of a traditional sit-down Thanksgiving. With its location right by the water, it provides a holiday experience that combines good food with an unforgettable backdrop. Guests can sit back, enjoy the view, and let someone else handle the hard work this Thanksgiving.

Granny Cantrell’s
For those who prefer a cozy, home-style setting, Granny Cantrell’s has long been a local favorite. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where a Thanksgiving meal feels comforting and familiar. Visitors who want their holiday to feel less like dining out and more like gathering around a family table often find this restaurant a perfect fit. Whether you’re visiting with kids, parents, or friends, Granny Cantrell’s offers a relaxed and approachable option for your Thanksgiving dinner in PCB.
Saltwater Grill
If you’re looking for an upscale setting with an elegant feel, Saltwater Grill delivers a dining experience that makes Thanksgiving feel a little extra special. The restaurant is known for its stylish atmosphere and welcoming service, creating the right balance of refinement and comfort. Many families and couples choose Saltwater Grill for their holiday dinner when they want something more elevated without losing the warmth of the season. With its inviting setting, it’s a wonderful place to share a holiday meal and make memories by the coast.
Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant
Few spots capture the essence of Panama City Beach like Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant. With its lively atmosphere and prime location by the water, it’s a favorite for visitors who want their Thanksgiving to feel fun and vibrant. Dining here combines the joy of the holiday with the unbeatable experience of a beachfront setting. Families and groups often enjoy Sharky’s because it feels festive, casual, and quintessentially “PCB.” Spending Thanksgiving with the sound of waves in the background is an experience unlike any other.
Why Spend Thanksgiving in PCB
Celebrating Thanksgiving in Panama City Beach gives you a chance to break away from the ordinary and embrace the beauty of the coast. Instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day, you can spend your holiday walking on the sand, watching the sunset, or gathering with loved ones in a relaxed atmosphere. Dining out at local restaurants means less stress and more time to focus on the people around you. With the Gulf as your backdrop, every moment feels extra special.

Why Book with Vacations Perfected
Pairing your Thanksgiving meal with the right place to stay makes all the difference. By booking with Vacations Perfected, you’ll enjoy a private vacation rental that feels like home while still offering the excitement of a getaway. Our rentals provide plenty of space for family gatherings, whether you’re planning a big holiday trip or an intimate escape. With fully equipped kitchens, you even have the option to prepare a few holiday favorites yourself if you’d like, then head out to a restaurant for the main event.
Vacations Perfected homes are thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. From cozy living spaces where you can unwind after dinner to balconies with stunning views, our rentals create the perfect holiday atmosphere. Booking directly with us ensures a seamless experience, personalized service, and the peace of mind that your Thanksgiving trip will be effortless from start to finish.
Make Thanksgiving Dinner in Panama City Beach Memorable with Us
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean long hours in the kitchen or complicated travel plans. In Panama City Beach, you can combine the joy of the holiday with the beauty of the coast. Enjoy a stress-free meal at local favorites like Runaway Island, Granny Cantrell’s, Saltwater Grill, or Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant, and then return to your private rental to continue celebrating in comfort.
This year, trade the traditional holiday hustle for sandy beaches, ocean views, and unforgettable memories. Book your Thanksgiving Panama City Beach rental with Vacations Perfected, and experience a coastal holiday that blends relaxation, celebration, and the magic of PCB.