If you have a spring break vacation coming, Panama City Beach has warmer days ahead for you. Leave the snow and slush behind and enjoy temperatures between 66°F and 77°F in the daytime. Whether you’re a college student looking for a Florida spring break from the books or you’re a family/couple wanting a few days away from your hometown, try this sample itinerary for your spring in Panama City Beach.
Day 1: Nature and Marine Life, Up Close and Personal
One of the favorites of Panama City Beach is the ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory. Despite its official-sounding name, you can have a lot of fun here. Ever hug a lemur or pet a sloth? Ever feed an alligator—on purpose—or stroll an aviary? How about kiss a giraffe? Well, you can do all that here and no charge for the kisses.
St. Andrews State Park is another favorite. There are 2.5 miles of beachfront as well as bicycle paths, hiking trails, fishing and wildlife viewing. There are also interpretive displays and camping opportunities. Check in advance for the watersports (kayaking, diving, swimming, etc.) in case of inclement weather.
Dining: Either catch a snack at the concessions at St. Andrews of try one of the restaurants in town. Big Mama’s on the Bayou is one of the favorites for breakfast and lunch, and the Pit Stop Barbecue has great reviews.
Day 2: Panama City Theme Parks
A trip to Panama City isn’t complete without visiting Coconut Creek Family Fun Park. Get lost in their football field-sized Gran Maze or play miniature golf in the tropical-themed 18-hole courses. Coconut Creek is happy to accommodate larger groups as well.
Play Crazy Bumper Cars that spin around, drive the go kart tracks, play in the giant arcade, or ride the sky coaster at Race City. Adults and children alike have a great time here, since there is something for all ages. Have a birthday in your group or family? They offer a 24-hour unlimited admission arm band with a 6-person minimum, but call ahead—72 hours’ notice is required.
Dining: As if you haven’t had enough fun, try Gypsea Crepes for lunch or dinner. They have a large selection of both sweet and savory, with breakfast and vegetarian choices as well.
Day 3: Shopping and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Need gifts and souvenirs? Don’t miss Pier Park. There are shops and lots of food choices, as well as more activities just in case you need them.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum is another popular attraction for your Panama City Beach spring. You can view their exhibits of weirdness, walk a mirror maze, and take in the 3D moving theater.
Dining: Find The Wharf all-you-can-eat buffet at the Laketown Wharf Resort. Sit outside or inside, and make sure you see the 735-gallon saltwater aquarium.
Day 4: More Theme Parks
Wonderworks is a very popular family attraction in Panama City Beach. It boasts 35,000 square feet of hands-in exhibits designed to educate as well as entertain. There are wonder zones, like Extreme Weather, Physical Challenge and Space Discovery. You can play on an indoor ropes course or take a break for some laser tag.
A must-see is the XD Darkride Experience. Choose from four different interactive movies for an “immersive video game experience.” Their technology can make you feel like you’re falling, crashing, or shooting enemies with lasers guns.
Dining: If you’re in the mood for some comfort food, Jesse’s Place is a must. From meatloaf to creamed corn, you’ll feel like you’re at Mom’s. If you’re in the mood for local fare, hit Finns Island Style Grub, where you will find fresh and healthy choices with the newest addition, organic coffee.
Day 5: Sailing and More
Island Time Sailing is a great place to start. You can snorkel and sail to Shell Island, take a dolphin cruise during the day or at sunset. Panama City Beach Dolphin Tours & More also offers fishing trips, scuba diving and snorkeling boat wrecks.
If you want to take a sailing lesson, Reef Runner Sailing has classes for beginners through seasoned pros, and also offers charters and cruises if you just want to get out on the water in one of their four beautiful sailboats.
Dining: For American/Cajun fare, try Dee’s Hang Out, where you can try everything from a burger or crab cakes to fried pickles and hush puppies. Liza’s Kitchen is a cute diner-style restaurant that also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. If you want something more upscale on your last day in Panama City Beach, the Firefly restaurant offers ambiance and great menu choices—plan ahead because reservations are required.
By now it’s time to return refreshed from your spring in Panama City Beach. To book the best places to stay, contact the professionals at Vacations Perfected now.