Top Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida


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.

Restaurants & Dining Experiences

  • Firefly Restaurant & Lounge
    An upscale dining experience located in the Shoppes at Edgewater. Firefly is known for its romantic ambiance, complete with a large indoor oak tree wrapped in twinkling lights. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, and sushi in a refined setting perfect for special occasions or elegant dinners.

  • Pineapple Willy’s
    A longtime beachfront favorite, Pineapple Willy’s offers casual dining with stunning views of the Gulf. Known for their famous BBQ ribs and signature frozen daiquiris, this spot is ideal for a laid-back lunch or dinner with live music and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

  • The Grand Marlin
    Located on the Grand Lagoon, this fine dining seafood restaurant features a raw oyster bar, handcrafted cocktails, and dishes like grilled Gulf fish and lobster tail. The elegant yet relaxed vibe makes it popular for romantic evenings or upscale group dinners.

  • Saltwater Grill
    A standout for its 25,000-gallon saltwater aquarium centerpiece, this local favorite blends fine dining with a casual setting. The menu includes lobster, filet mignon, sushi, and a rotating list of chef specials, all within an aquatic-themed dining room.

  • Runaway Island
    This two-story restaurant offers panoramic Gulf views, an open-air deck, and live music. With a menu focused on coastal cuisine including crab cakes, Gulf grouper, and shrimp and grits, it’s a lively spot that captures the spirit of the beach.

  • Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant
    Sharky’s offers a festive atmosphere with a tiki bar, seafood platters, and a large outdoor dining area steps from the beach. It’s popular with families and groups looking for sunset dinners and casual fun with live entertainment.

  • Andy’s Flour Power
    A beloved breakfast and brunch spot featuring scratch-made omelets, French toast, and fresh pastries. Locals and tourists alike praise its friendly service, large portions, and homemade quality in a relaxed café environment.

  • Liza’s Kitchen
    A cozy café serving fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch. Liza’s is known for gourmet sandwiches, soups, and weekend brunch. With its local charm and creative menu, it's a great stop for casual daytime dining.

Things to Do & Attractions

  • Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
    One of the newest attractions in Panama City Beach, Pirates Voyage is an immersive dinner show opening near Pier Park. Guests can enjoy a four-course feast while watching an action-packed battle between two pirate crews, featuring full-size ships, acrobatics, sea lions, mermaids, and dazzling special effects. A family-friendly experience that blends dining with theater.

  • Pirates of the High Seas Fest
    This annual October event brings the spirit of piracy to Pier Park and the beach. Enjoy parades, fireworks, live music, treasure hunts, street performers, and pirate-themed entertainment. It’s a free, family-oriented festival that celebrates local culture with a swashbuckling twist.

  • Shell Island & St. Andrews State Park
    A natural paradise just offshore, Shell Island offers white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and snorkeling opportunities. Accessible by boat, it’s a favorite for nature lovers. Adjacent St. Andrews State Park includes walking trails, kayaking, fishing piers, and protected wildlife areas perfect for day trips.

  • Gulf World Marine Park
    A long-standing family attraction offering up-close experiences with dolphins, sea lions, exotic birds, and reptiles. Daily shows, educational exhibits, and hands-on encounters make it a great activity for all ages, rain or shine.

  • Water Adventures
    Panama City Beach is home to a wide range of water-based activities including parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, dolphin cruises, and pontoon rentals. Whether you're seeking thrills or a relaxing day on the water, there are options for every group size and budget.

  • Pier Park
    This open-air shopping and entertainment complex features over 120 stores, restaurants, an IMAX movie theater, and family rides including the SkyWheel. It’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and play, with frequent seasonal events throughout the year.

  • Frank Brown Park
    A community hub for sports and recreation, Frank Brown Park includes baseball and soccer fields, walking trails, and a large aquatic center. It also hosts concerts, festivals, and youth sports tournaments.

  • Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally
    This biannual event draws thousands of bikers to the area each spring and fall. It features live music, custom bike shows, scenic rides along the coast, and a lively social atmosphere with vendors and entertainment across multiple venues.

  • Miracle Strip at Race City
    A nostalgic amusement park with go-karts, bumper boats, roller coasters, mini-golf, and arcades. Great for families with younger kids looking for old-school fun and rides just a short drive from the beach.