Panama City Beach Travel Guide

The East End (Thomas Drive)

Home to St. Andrews State Park and the Grand Lagoon. This area is generally quieter, has easy access to the jetties for snorkeling, and hosts the best fleet of fishing charters.

The West End (Pier Park)

The hub of entertainment. Anchored by Pier Park and the City Pier, this area offers walkable shopping, the SkyWheel, and proximity to 30A for day trips.

Shell Island: A Must-Do

A 7-mile stretch of undeveloped barrier island. No condos, no trash cans, just sugar-white sand.
Pro Tip: Pack a cooler and umbrella. There are no facilities on the island!

Deep Sea Fishing

PCB is known as the "Seafood Capital of the South." Charter a boat from the Grand Lagoon (East End) to catch Snapper, Grouper, or Amberjack. Many captains will even filet your catch so you can cook it fresh at your rental.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

A classic PCB staple. It features a massive wave pool, a lazy river for relaxing, and high-speed slides for thrill-seekers. It’s clean, safe, and perfect for a full day out.

Cobra Adventure Park

Have a need for speed? Like to fly high? How about 18 holes of miniature golf? Cobra Adventure Park is Panama City Beach’s best place to experience all of these exciting attractions. Finish your day thrill-seeking or setting high scores on your favorite games at the arcade.

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is an amazing Panama City Beach attraction where scientific principles and fun come together to provide an unrivaled educational experience. 

Scenic Highway 30A

Just 15 minutes west of PCB lies 30A, a collection of charming beach towns. Visit Rosemary Beach for European-style architecture and cobblestone streets, or Seaside (where The Truman Show was filmed) for iconic Airstream food trucks.

PCB Conservation Park

24 miles of trails perfect for hiking or biking. This is also the best place in the county to walk your dog (on a leash)!

Local Favorites

Thomas' Donuts & Snack Shop (West End) is a mandatory morning stop. For dinner with a view, try Schooners on the East End—it’s known as the "Last Local Beach Club" and fires a cannon at sunset every night.

Cook at Home

Visit Buddy's Seafood Market or Local Steamer. Pick up pounds of "Royal Red" shrimp—a deep-water delicacy that tastes like lobster. They will steam them with corn and potatoes for a perfect balcony dinner.

Pier Park Shopping: Browse over 124 stores. Even if it rains, many areas are covered.

WonderWorks: The famous "upside-down house" is an indoor amusement park perfect for kids.

IMAX Theater: Catch the latest blockbuster at the Grand IMAX in Pier Park.

Spring (Mar-May)

High Energy • 70°F-80°F

The water warms up and the town comes alive. Perfect for events and festivals.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak Season • 88°F-92°F

Hot days, warm nights, and fireworks. Best for families and sun seekers.

Fall (Sep-Oct)

Sweet Spot • 75°F-85°F

The "Secret Season." Lower humidity, warm water, and no wait times at restaurants.