How to Beat the Heat in Panama City Beach, FL This Summer
Going to Panama City Beach during the summer months is also the best time to head to the beach, get a tan, and take your board out in the surf. But we can admit, it gets a bit hot and humid in the Sunshine State between June and September. Sometimes, you just need to chill out, cool off, and take some time out of the sun. We think the best way to do so is to hit the beach, grab some ice cream, and indulge in a nice beer during happy hour.
Head to the Beach
One of the main reasons you came to Florida has to be because of the breathtaking beaches. Chill out on the miles and miles of white sand, getting a tan in the process. We love setting up an umbrella, undoing our beach chairs, and building a sandcastle with our kids. Plus, once we get too hot, just run in the water to cool off!
We love going to Panama City Beach and Pier, which is located right on the Gulf of Mexico, providing clear and blue water that is just perfect for pictures. Plus, you can get the breeze coming off of the water to help keep you cool while you are sunbathing on your towel. We also love that it is super centrally located, so you can literally walk here right from your high-end condo or apartment on the water.
Another ‘cool’ spot to chill out on a hot summer day is Shell Island. We love taking a half-day or full-day trip here to escape the hustle and bustle of the rest of the Sunshine State. Head here to rent a kayak and paddleboard in the breeze, chill in a canoe with your partner, or kayak along the small waves. You can even see incredible wildlife like the green sea turtles and coral reefs beneath the clear surface.
For those who want to have some more open space for themselves and maybe want to go hiking or bird watching after spending time on the beach, Camp Helen State Park Beach is THE prime spot for nature. You can get an interesting mix of freshwater and saltwater combining in the surf, making for ideal photo opportunities and swimming chances. After swimming, you can go birding, surfing, and hiking,
Finally, we love spending an afternoon with our friends on Schooners Beach if we are in the mood to be social, have a few drinks, play a game of cards, or listen to live music. There is an oceanfront patio that overlooks the bright blue water, offering a chance to cool off in the water’s breeze. Plus, you can boogie board in the waves, take a nap on the beach, or head to Schooners to sip on an ice-cold beer.
Get an Ice Cream Cone with Your Kids
Panama City Beach offers tons of spots to get coffee, drinks, and ice cream—and we can’t think of anything else you could want on vacation! We love going to Kilwin’s Ice Cream and Fudge of PCB, arguably the most famous sweets shop in the entire city. Try the chocolates, confectionery, and fudge. Then, get an ice cream cone to curb your sweet cravings, trying one of the mouthwatering 32 flavors and combinations.
Another cool spot to check out is Frozen Due on Panama City Beach, offering unique rolled ice cream and coffee to give you a little extra pep in your step during the midday slump. You can pair your ice cream creation with an iced coffee, frozen Frappuccino, Taiwanese boba tea, mango or peach smoothie, or even a milkshake for complete indulgence.
Lastly, the Handmade Ice Cream Shoppe is an old-school and family-run business that reminds us of how Old World Florida used to be. There is nothing better than sitting outside of a traditional Mom and Pop’s shop to have a cup of well-made chocolate ice cream in the midday sun.
Visit a Brewery
Last but not least, if adults don’t want to get ice cream to cool off on a hot day, then going to a brewery might be more their speed. We love going to The Craft Bar Panama City Beach, a rip-roaring gastropub that offers happy hour specials, tons of craft beer, and a great spot to hang out in the center of the town. You can even find a high-percentage IPA and non-alcoholic drinks here—the possibilities are endless!
Another popular sport among tourists and locals alike is The Brass Tap, the best place for craft beer if you want sample selection, sports on the TVs, and locals to hang out with to get out of the midday sun. We recommend ordering a burger paired with a pint of beer, watching a sports game on the TV, and staying to listen to live music.
Finally, Newby’s Brew and Booze house on Front Beach Road is a laid-back and dive bar-type place that churns out pint after pint of craft beer to help you cool off during the heat of the summer. We recommend ordering a crisp IPA, splitting a basket of fries, and planning your moves for the rest of the night. Maybe it is time to hit the town!
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