Top Restaurants in Panama City Beach

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a juicy steak, or casual beach bites, Panama City Beach has something for every taste. Here are 10 must-try spots during your stay:

  • Firefly – Upscale dining with a romantic atmosphere and award-winning seafood.

  • Pineapple Willy’s – A beachfront favorite for ribs, tropical drinks, and live music.

  • The Grand Marlin – Known for its fresh oysters, elegant views, and coastal cuisine.

  • Dat Cajun Place – Authentic New Orleans flavors with live music and a laid-back vibe.

  • Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill – A lively local spot for oysters, beer, and karaoke.

  • Schooners – “The Last Local Beach Club” with sunsets, fresh seafood, and a fun crowd.

  • Runaway Island – Two levels of Gulf views and an extensive menu of coastal comfort food.

  • Diego’s Burrito Factory – Casual, fast, and flavorful—perfect for a beach day break.

  • Saltwater Grill – Steak, seafood, and a stunning 25,000-gallon aquarium.

  • Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant – A long-standing favorite for harbor-side seafood dinners.

Top Things to Do in Panama City Beach

Whether you're visiting for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Panama City Beach offers unforgettable experiences for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do:

  • Visit Shell Island
    Hop on a shuttle or rent a pontoon boat to explore this untouched barrier island—perfect for snorkeling, shelling, and dolphin spotting.

  • St. Andrews State Park
    A local gem for swimming, hiking, kayaking, and picnicking with scenic views and abundant wildlife.

  • Pier Park
    The heart of shopping, dining, and entertainment in PCB—featuring everything from boutiques to movie theaters.

  • Take a Sunset Cruise
    Set sail on a catamaran or dolphin cruise for a breathtaking view of the sun dipping into the Gulf.

  • Explore Gulf World Marine Park
    Enjoy dolphin encounters, sea lion shows, and interactive marine exhibits great for kids and adults alike.

  • Walk the M.B. Miller County Pier
    Perfect for a morning stroll, fishing, or watching surfers catch waves against a stunning Gulf backdrop.

  • Enjoy a Beach Bonfire
    Book a private beach bonfire experience for s’mores, music, and memories under the stars.

  • Ride Jet Skis or Go Parasailing
    Thrill seekers can zoom across the waves or take to the skies with epic views of the coastline.

  • Discover Local Art & History
    Stop by the Panama City Center for the Arts or nearby museums to explore the region’s cultural side.

  • Dine with a View
    Unwind at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood and panoramic ocean views—because in PCB, the vibe is always coastal.

Top Shopping Areas in Panama City Beach

Whether you're looking for beachwear, souvenirs, upscale fashion, or unique local finds, PCB has a little something for every type of shopper:

  • Pier Park
    The premier shopping destination in PCB, featuring national retailers like Target, Dillard’s, Old Navy, and boutiques, along with restaurants and a movie theater—all in an open-air, walkable setting.

  • Pier Park North
    Located just across from Pier Park, this area has big-box favorites like Bed Bath & Beyond, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and The Fresh Market for essentials and more.

  • Beachfront Markets
    Scattered along Front Beach Road, you’ll find beach shops offering swimwear, flip-flops, surf gear, sunglasses, and plenty of souvenirs.

  • Alvin’s Island
    A PCB staple for affordable beachwear, toys, towels, and last-minute vacation gear—great for families.

  • Ron Jon Surf Shop
    A must-stop for surf apparel, accessories, and branded gear from one of Florida’s most iconic surf retailers.

  • Coastal Cottage Emporium
    A charming spot for home décor, coastal-themed gifts, and antiques with local flair.

  • Shoppes at Edgewater
    A smaller plaza with local boutiques, a salon, fitness center, and casual eateries—perfect for a relaxed afternoon outing.

  • Panama City Mall (Downtown PC)
    Just a short drive from the beach, this mall offers additional indoor shopping options and department stores.

  • The Shadow Box
    An art-lover’s paradise—find handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and work from local artists.

  • Just Jump Gift Shop & Convenience
    A fun, family-oriented store with everything from Panama City Beach tees to cold drinks and snacks—ideal for a quick stop near your rental.

Top Local Events in Panama City Beach

No matter when you visit, Panama City Beach knows how to throw a celebration! Here are 10 of the most popular annual events that bring music, food, and fun to the Gulf Coast:

  1. Seabreeze Jazz Festival (April)
    A world-class event drawing jazz legends and fans from across the country. Held at Aaron Bessant Park with a laid-back, beachy vibe.

  2. Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally (Spring & Fall)
    Known as the “most biker-friendly rally in the country,” this massive gathering brings live music, vendors, and bike shows twice a year.

  3. UNwineD (March)
    A weekend of craft beer, wine, spirits, and gourmet bites from top regional chefs—plus live music and a Southern garden party atmosphere.

  4. 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
    One of the largest displays on the Gulf Coast with multiple launch sites—best viewed from the beach, piers, or boat.

  5. Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest (October)
    A family favorite with pirate parades, treasure hunts, live reenactments, fireworks, and renaissance flair.

  6. New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop
    Ring in the new year with live entertainment, fireworks, and 10,000 beach balls dropped over Pier Park.

  7. SandJam Music Festival (Fall)
    A beachside rock festival featuring national touring artists performing on the sand just steps from the Gulf.

  8. Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam (Late August or Early September)
    Country music lovers flock here for this 3-day mega-festival featuring top names in country music and a huge stage at Frank Brown Park.

  9. Emerald Coast Cruizin’ Car Show (March & November)
    A nostalgic weekend filled with classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles, plus swap meets and live music.

  10. PCB Mardi Gras & Music Festival (February)
    A Gulf Coast twist on the New Orleans tradition with parades, beads, family zones, and a festive lineup of live bands.