20 Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida
Panama City Beach, Florida, shines with its famous stretch of sugar-white sand along the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Known as PCB, this vibrant destination offers far more than just beautiful beaches, boasting family-friendly attractions, lively entertainment, and natural escapes, with many enjoyable free things to do in Panama City Beach like exploring state parks or watching dolphins play offshore. Whether you seek relaxation under the sun or thrilling adventures, PCB delivers a classic Florida beach vacation.
This guide highlights 20 distinct activities that capture the fun-loving spirit of Panama City Beach. From iconic piers and waterfront dining to state parks and unique encounters, these suggestions cover the must-do experiences for your Gulf Coast getaway. Prepare to soak up the sun and the lively atmosphere of PCB.

Beach Fun & Coastal Views
Relax on Panama City Beach: Spend ample time enjoying the main attraction – the 27 miles of stunning white sand beaches. Swim in the emerald waters, build sandcastles, or simply lounge under an umbrella and soak up the Florida sunshine.
St. Andrews State Park: Explore this beautiful park located at the eastern end of PCB, offering pristine beaches, jetties perfect for fishing and snorkeling, nature trails, and campsites. Look for dolphins playing near the channel or take the shuttle to Shell Island.
Russell-Fields Pier (City Pier): Walk out onto one of the longest piers on the Gulf of Mexico for fantastic fishing opportunities or simply enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a great spot to watch sunsets over the water.
M.B. Miller County Pier: Visit another popular fishing pier offering similar stunning views and angling opportunities. Both piers provide excellent vantage points for spotting marine life like sea turtles and rays.
Shell Island: Take a shuttle boat or rent your own vessel to visit this undeveloped barrier island accessible from St. Andrews State Park. Enjoy pristine beaches perfect for shelling, swimming, and experiencing natural coastal beauty.
Family Attractions & Entertainment
Pier Park: Explore this large outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located across from the City Pier. Find numerous stores, restaurants, amusement rides, a movie theater, and seasonal events for all-day entertainment.
SkyWheel Panama City Beach: Take a ride on this large observation wheel at Pier Park for breathtaking aerial views of the coastline and the surrounding area. Choose a climate-controlled gondola for a comfortable scenic experience.
Gulf World Marine Park: See dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals through shows and interactive programs. It offers opportunities for up-close encounters and learning about marine conservation.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark: Cool off with thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers at this popular family-friendly water park. It provides hours of splashing fun during warmer months.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Explore oddities and curiosities from around the world in this museum filled with unusual artifacts and interactive exhibits. It offers a quirky break from the beach scene.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
Conservation Park: Hike or bike miles of trails through protected wetlands and pine forests just north of the beach. It offers a chance to see local wildlife and enjoy quiet natural surroundings away from the crowds.
Camp Helen State Park: Discover this unique park bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida. Enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and hiking through diverse coastal ecosystems.
Dolphin Tours & Sunset Cruises: Embark on a boat tour for opportunities to see playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Many tours combine dolphin watching with snorkeling or beautiful sunset views.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking: Rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the calm waters of the Gulf or the coastal dune lakes like Lake Powell. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the water and get exercise with scenic views.
Fishing Charters: Book an inshore or offshore fishing trip with experienced local captains. Target various species found in the Gulf waters for an exciting day of angling adventure.
Dining & Nightlife
Waterfront Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views at one of the many restaurants located directly on the beach or overlooking St. Andrews Bay. Dining with your toes almost in the sand is a classic PCB experience.
Eat Fresh Gulf Seafood: Indulge in locally caught seafood like grouper, snapper, shrimp, and oysters prepared in various styles. Find casual seafood shacks or upscale restaurants serving the best of the Gulf’s bounty.
Live Music Venues: Catch local bands and musicians playing at beach bars and restaurants along Front Beach Road and Thomas Drive. Enjoy tropical drinks and live entertainment after a day in the sun.
Explore Thomas Drive: Discover numerous restaurants, beach bars, miniature golf courses, and attractions along this popular stretch east of the Hathaway Bridge. It offers a slightly different vibe with plenty of entertainment options.
Pineapple Willy’s: Visit this iconic beachfront restaurant known for its signature frozen daiquiris served in souvenir cups and casual seafood menu. It’s a long-standing PCB institution offering fun drinks and beach views.
