The 4th of July holiday is one of the best times for you to celebrate with your friends, visit family, or go on a trip with your partner. We can’t think of any better time to head to the beach than the hot summer months! Not only can you make use of the long days, strong sunshine, and hotter temperatures, but you can find unique annual events to attend that are only happening once a year in Panama City Beach! Check out our favorite activities for 4th of July in Panama City Beach below.

Real Fun Fourth

The ‘Real Fun Fourth’ celebration is famous in Panama City Beach! This fun-filled and exciting yearly event features fireworks on the beach, incredible views of the coastline, and dozens of special events that take over PCB and the surrounding areas between July 2nd and 4th every single year. We love how there are THREE spectacular nights of fun, so you can choose which night you really want to party!

There will be dozens of radio stations and music acts that dot the coastline during these fun days. You will never feel bored during your three days of live music, great drinks, breathtaking sunsets, and eye-catching fireworks.

One of the first events to attend during your time in Panama City Beach for the holiday is the Light up the Bay Fireworks on July 2nd. Sometimes it is best to go to the first event so you can tick this off your list and get pristine views surrounding the bright blue water of the bay.

The next day, you can see the fireworks light up the Gulf. If you are staying close to the Gulf, this is a great way to watch the fireworks from the comfort of your own home. We offer dozens of properties that have outdoor space that can provide expansive views over the water, featuring private patios, decks, and private pools.

Plus, Panama City Beach has the Freedom Rocks! Fireworks show on July 3rd that you can attend if you want to listen to live music, see the large fireworks display over the white sand beaches, and view the skyscrapers in the distance head here early to set up a picnic blanket on the beach and dig your toes in the and as you sip on some hot cocoa.

Finally, Panama City Beach offers the Star Spangled Spectacular show on July 4th! This is the show that everyone has been waiting for. We recommend heading close to the pier to see the fireworks over the ocean and claim a spot on the large stretches of beach so you can see the views unobstructed. Bring a drink, blanket, and your best friends to enjoy this show with your loved ones.

Go Surfing

Another fun thing to do during the 4th of July weekend in Panama City Beach is to learn how to surf! We know that lying down and relaxing on the beach can be fun, but it can get boring. That is why watersports are the best thing to do during a long weekend in Panama City Beach.

We recommend heading to St. Andre’s Park, commonly known as ‘The Park’ to locals, for a great surf session. This is one of the best spots on the Gulf and is conveniently located right near St. Andrews Recreational Area. The breaks are good for those who can handle their surfboard and want to also test their luck with longboarding.

Another great spot to unleash your board is Wood Pier. This popular spot is well known for its long wooden pier that juts out into the water. We like heading here to watch other surfers and test our luck with the beginner waves.

Lastly, check out Panama City Pier to enjoy reliable surf all year round. This area offers consistent and surfable waves that are great for use during the summer months. Although the winter season is best for offshore winds, the summer months can still offer slight wind that is good for beginners learning how to surf.

Grab a Coffee

Before you go out partying all night long for the 4th of July, it can be best to grab a coffee and get your caffeine fix! We love going to The Pour for our first coffee of the day. Head there to get an espresso-laden drink, like an iced latte or stone cappuccino with two espresso shots. This cool and laid-back spot in PCB offers traditional coffee drinks, other smoothies, and a friendly environment.

Another great spot to check out during your stay here is Roasters Edge Coffee Roastery and Deja Brew Coffee Shop. This coffee roaster offers freshly roasted cups that provide enough strength and flavor for you to drink black without any milk! Pair your strong coffee with Danish rolls, sandwiches, and other pastries.

Plan Your 4th of July Escape

Does this sound perfect for your needs? We think so too! Check out Panama City Beach for a 4th of July holiday.

Panama City Beach is a beautiful coastal town in the Sunshine State, featuring miles of white-sand beaches, crystal blue waters, hiking spots, biking trails, shopping centers, fun bars, tasty restaurants, and much more! Located on a strip of land by Sunnyside and Laguna Beach, this waterfront town is also known for its proximity to St. Andrews State Park and the Gulf of Mexico.

But what should you do during your 4th of July in Panama City Beach? Check out these fun activities to do during your upcoming holiday!

Fireworks

The 4th of July isn’t complete without watching fireworks go off in the sky! Luckily for you, Panama City Beach has the largest display of fireworks on the entire Gulf Coast. Plus, if you miss the first night, don’t fret — this town offers two nights of breathtaking fireworks over the bright blue water. You can enjoy the views from almost any location in town, whether you want to book a reservation at a waterfront restaurant or watch from the balcony of your hotel room.

Amphitheater Summer Concert

If you are in the mood for some live music, head to the Aaron Bessant Park summer concert at Panama City Beach. Not only is it free, but the outdoor air, sunshine on your face, and good vibes will make you never want to leave. Bring a blanket to sit on, some refreshing drinks in a cooler, and snacks for your fun afternoon. If you bring your children with you on vacation, you can take them to one of the many family-friendly activities, like rides, face painting, and much more!

Accommodation for the 4th of July in Panama City Beach

Before you book your flights to Florida, make sure you have your accommodation sorted out beforehand. Since Florida is one of the top vacation spots in the entire country, accommodations can fill up fast. However, forget boring hotel rooms and crowded B&Bs — instead, check out Vacations Perfected vacation rentals to find the perfect home, condominium, or villa for you and your pals!

You can choose between smaller rentals, like modern waterfront studios, or bigger options, like 4-bedroom homes. Browse between beach houses, Shores of Panama rentals, Origin at Seahaven rentals, Laketown Wharf rentals, or unique locations throughout town. For bigger groups, try the 3919 Ocean View Drive home, complete with an outdoor pool! Or, if it is just you and your smaller family, we recommend looking at the Shores of Panama modern apartment.

Staying in Panama City Beach has never been better. Check out the dozens of modern and luxurious rentals from Vacations Perfected to find your dream vacation home.