Top Things to Do in Panama City Beach – Sun, Sand & Adventure!


From sun-soaked adventures to hidden local favorites, Panama City Beach offers something for everyone. Whether you're traveling with family, planning a romantic escape, or just looking to soak up the coastal charm, you’ll find no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Explore world-class attractions, one-of-a-kind local spots, and endless ways to make the most of your beachside vacation.

Pier Park – The Heart of Panama City Beach

If you're visiting Panama City Beach, Pier Park is a must-visit destination that offers more than just shopping—it's the lifestyle center of the Emerald Coast.

Shop, Dine, and Explore

Located right along Front Beach Road, Pier Park spans over 900,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space. This open-air shopping complex combines palm-lined walkways with beachy vibes and more than 120 stores, making it a top destination for both locals and tourists.

🛒 Shopping Highlights

From national retailers to beachy boutiques, Pier Park has something for every shopper:

  • Target, Marshalls, and Old Navy for essentials

  • Ron Jon Surf Shop, Salt Life, and Coastal Casuals for that coastal style

  • Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, and Forever 21 for trend-savvy shoppers

  • Specialty shops like I Love Sugar and Kilwins for sweet treats and souvenirs

Dining for Every Taste

Pier Park is a culinary hotspot that goes beyond your typical mall food court. Enjoy everything from grab-and-go beach snacks to sunset sit-down dinners:

  • The Back Porch – Gulf seafood with an ocean view

  • Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill – Casual eats right by the pier

  • Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen – Southern classics served family-style

  • Five Guys, Margaritaville, Dickey’s BBQ, Red Robin, and more for familiar favorites

  • Don’t forget ice cream at Kilwins or gourmet popcorn from Popcorn Kingdom

Entertainment & Attractions

Pier Park is more than a shopping mall—it’s an experience.

  • 🎡 SkyWheel Panama City Beach: A 200-foot tall observation wheel offering panoramic views of the coastline. Don’t miss the VIP gondolas!

  • 🎬 The Grand IMAX Theater: Catch the latest blockbusters in luxury seating

  • 🎠 Mirror Maze & Arcade, Laser Tag, and XD Dark Ride: Perfect for kids and families

  • 🎶 Live music & events: The outdoor amphitheater frequently hosts local musicians, seasonal events, and holiday celebrations

Steps from the Beach & Pier

Just across from the main entrance to Pier Park is the Russell-Fields Pier—one of the longest piers on the Gulf Coast. Whether you're fishing, taking in the sunset, or snapping photos, the pier adds the perfect waterfront vibe to your visit.

Convenient & Accessible

  • Free parking throughout the complex

  • Pet-friendly in most outdoor areas

  • Trolley access during seasonal events

  • Adjacent to some of PCB’s most popular resorts and beachfront rentals

Why Visit Pier Park?

Whether you’re looking to shop for beachwear, enjoy dinner with a view, catch a movie, or ride the SkyWheel, Pier Park is the place where PCB comes to life. It blends the energy of a boardwalk with the convenience of a shopping and entertainment hub.

Address: 600 Pier Park Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Website: www.simon.com/mall/pier-park

Top 5 Must-Try Restaurants in Panama City Beach, FL

Whether you're planning a romantic evening, a family brunch, or a sunset dinner by the water, Panama City Beach has a dining scene full of flavor and charm. Here are five local favorites that offer something special for every appetite:

1. Firefly

535 N Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Elegant dining under twinkling lights

Firefly sets the standard for upscale dining in Panama City Beach. Famous for its romantic ambiance and award-winning menu, it offers a refined blend of sushi, steaks, and fresh seafood. A must-visit for special occasions or a luxurious night out.

Don’t Miss: She Crab Soup, Filet Mignon, Lobster Mac & Cheese.

2. Saltwater Grill

11040 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Seafood, steak, and a giant saltwater aquarium

Saltwater Grill delivers ambiance and bold flavors. Dine beside their massive 25,000-gallon aquarium while enjoying perfectly cooked steaks, shrimp & grits, or their signature lobster ravioli. It’s upscale, yet welcoming for families and groups.

Don’t Miss: Lobster Ravioli, Seared Scallops, Daily Chef Specials.

3. Captain Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market

5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
A Panama City Beach icon since 1967

Overlooking the Grand Lagoon, this long-standing favorite is perfect for seafood lovers. Known for fresh catches brought in by the marina’s fishing fleet, Captain Anderson’s offers a timeless experience with a view—and a legacy of quality.

Don’t Miss: Broiled Seafood Platter, Greek Salad, Key Lime Pie.

4. Andy’s Flour Power Café & Bakery

2629 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The ultimate brunch and breakfast spot

From flaky croissants and quiche to gourmet omelets and French toast, Andy’s is beloved for its from-scratch kitchen and fun atmosphere. Regular live music and upbeat service make it a morning favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Don’t Miss: Spinach Omelet, French Toast, Fresh-Baked Pastries.

5. Schooners: The Last Local Beach Club

5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Beachfront dining with live music and sunset vibes

Casual, fun, and right on the sand—Schooners is a go-to for relaxed meals and tropical drinks. Expect great seafood baskets, friendly crowds, and a daily cannon blast at sunset. It’s the kind of place you visit once and can’t wait to come back to.

Don’t Miss: Grouper Sandwich, Fried Shrimp, Frozen Drinks.

Featured Fishing Charters

1. Captain Anderson’s Marina Charters

5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Operates multiple boats (Capt. Anderson I–V) offering half‑day to full‑day deep-sea, inshore, night, and shell island trips.

2. Captain Mike Charters

Panama City Beach (contact for exact dock)
Customizable trips including trolling, bottom fishing, shark expeditions, and family nearshore excursions. No license or gear needed.

3. Kelley Girl Charters

(850) 866‑5694
Specializes in deep-sea fishing; known for experienced captains and a reliably good catch.

4. Top Deck Fishing Charters

Operates out of Panama City Beach with captains Ray Whitfield and Jeff Lassiter. Family-friendly, deep-sea trips targeting snapper, amberjack, mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, and billfish.

5. Hook’em Up Charters

Docked at Capt. Anderson’s Marina (Slip 1E)
Offers bay and gulf charters—small groups, personalized service, light tackle, and bottom or nearshore trips.

Bonus Highlights (From Tripadvisor & FishingBooker)

  • Jubilee Deep Sea Fishing

  • The Reel Contender Fishing Charter

  • FunPCB Charters

  • Southern Dawn Charters

  • Panama Adventures Charters

  • Double C Charters

  • Let’s Go Fishing – PCB

  • Florida Panhandle Charters

  • Reel Addiction 2 Charters

These options are praised for family-friendly experiences and high customer satisfaction.

Top Panama City Beach Golf Courses

1. Legacy Golf Club

100 Fairway Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
A championship 18-hole, par‑72 course established in 1965. Known for fast TifEagle greens, white‑sand bunkers, lakes, and a premier practice facility—complete with a Pro Shop and Mulligan’s Bar & Grill.

2. Holiday Golf Club

100 Fairway Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Featuring “the best greens on the beach,” this 18-hole championship layout (plus a 9-hole par‑3) offers lake‑lined fairways, modern greens, and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.

3. Signal Hill Golf Course

9615 N Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The oldest course in PCB (opened in 1962), with 18 holes across 5,617 yards. Enjoy well-groomed fairways and a cozy snack bar—ideal for a casual round

4. Bay Point Golf Club – Nicklaus Course

4701 Bay Point Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The only Nicklaus-designed course in NW Florida. Stretching over 7,100 yards, this championship layout features scenic lagoon holes and frequently hosts US Open qualifiers.

5. Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort Course

11212 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
A scenic 9-hole resort course nestled on Gulf-front property. Perfect for guests seeking a quick round with beautiful coastal views.