A visit to Panama City Beach is about the best way to stimulate all five senses at once. Smell the salty sea breezes from the Gulf; feel the warm water lap against your bare skin; taste some of the best seafood in the country; listen to local bands or top 40 hits at nightclubs; and see enough miles of sandy white beaches, parks and water sports to last a lifetime.
There is certainly plenty to do in Panama City Beach. Vacationing families will find that amusement parks such as Gulf World (currently adding a Dolphin Stadium and Tropical Bird Theater) are a hit with the tykes. Most hotels and restaurants are kid-friendly, offering children’s programs and meals.
And, of course, there are the spring breakers. Panama City Beach has welcomed spring breakers since the 1950s, when crowds were chaperoned high-school students who entertained themselves by swimming in the Gulf and dancing at places like the Longbeach Hangout. Paul Churchwell, a retired hotel owner and Panama City Beach resident, was a teen who picked bottles out of the sand back then and remembers when there wasn’t much to do on the beach. Now, spring breakers flock to this area to cruise Front Beach Drive, work on their tans, shop for airbrushed t-shirts at the numerous souvenir shops and party at local nightspots, such as Club La Vela.
But Panama City Beach is also a quiet vacation spot. Golf and tennis await and the sunset cruises, sailing and dolphin excursions will soothe the work-weary soul.
Child-Friendliness
rating: 5 of 5
more: With amusements parks and other great activities, Panama City is a haven for kids of all ages.
Swimming
rating: 4 of 5
more: Known for its emerald green waters, Panama City offers some of the best swimming around.
Sand
rating: 4 of 5
more: With sugary white sand and 27 miles of beach, it’s no wonder this is one of America’s best beaches.
Atmosphere
rating: 3 of 5
more: After years of Spring Break madness, this beach’s atmosphere is a bit worn around the edges.
Non-Beach Activities
rating: 5 of 5
more: Panama City doesn’t just offer fun in the sun. There’s also plenty to do off the beach.
