7 Family-friendly things to do in Panama City Beach

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Visit Panama City Beach. All opinions are 100% mine.

I still remember the nostalgic, childhood memories of my parents saying, “We’re going to Panama City Beach!” Overflowing with excitement, going to Panama City Beach (PCB) was our go-to yearly vacation spot in my childhood. PCB is, without a doubt, a staple in family vacation spots.

People flock back year after year to enjoy the blue sky sunny days, turquoise water, and soft, sugar-white sand beaches. I can imagine the warm sun on my face and the ambient sounds of the waves. More than likely I am walking the beach for shells, or snorkeling the clear waters for wildlife. Panama City Beach is about making memories, and to make it yours!

You’ll leave each time with new ventures in mind when you return. And having visited PCB frequently in my lifetime (as a Florida-born native), you could say I know my way around this quaint beach town.

As a native, one of many reasons to travel to PCB is for the array of things to do – the hot spots. These are what make this vacation destination unique, and the reasons you’ll want to visit the Real. FUN. Beach of Panama City Beach.

8 Ways to enjoy family fun in Panama City Beach, Florida

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Shell Island

The only access is by boat – but it is far worth it once you see it! This unspoiled habitat is the local’s secret for the best shelling and fishing. The island itself is simply beautiful to walk around and spend relaxing by the beach.

It is known as one of the most concentrated areas of bottle-nosed dolphins, which always has visitors intrigued! There are kayak and paddleboard rentals, pontoon rentals and dolphin excursions. It’s the perfect way to spend an hour, or an entire day!

Historic St. Andrews

Spend Saturday at the farmers market! Local farms, craft vendors and great food bring visitors and locals in support of the community. Historic St. Andrews host many events and festivals throughout the year, as well as having an array of restaurants and shops to enjoy.

St. Andrews State Park

Once a military reservation, this treasure off the beaten path and away from the hustle and bustle of PCB is now home to 1200 acres of wildlife. Enjoy spending the day snorkeling the lagoon, fishing off the pier and jetty, and collecting sand dollars along the beach.

It’s easy to plan an entire day, picnic lunch included, at St. Andrew’s State Park!

Go on a hike

While there aren’t too many designated hiking trails in the heart of Panama City Beach itself, Heron Pond Trail, Gayle’s Trail as well as a cluster of trails inside the Panama City Beach Conservation Area are within a short distance.

Heron Pond Trail is a shorter trail (less than a mile) located in St. Andrew’s State Park, Gayle’s Trail features two trails – one is a short 1.3 mile loop around Frank Brown Park and the other is a whooping almost 20-mile loop around the entire Panama City Beach Conservation Area.

Honestly, Florida trails are so unique because you actually get to experience the real Florida canopy and wildlife, where the landscape is mostly cypress, pine, oak and the atypical palm trees (not the postcard kind you envision on white sandy beaches) as well as the common marshy, swampy forest floor. They’re a great way to get out and enjoy the sunshine besides the beach the whole family can enjoy.

Be sure to snag some binoculars!

Russell-Fields City Pier

Spend the day fishing, people watching or taking in the views from this pier that jets out nearly 1,500 feet over the Gulf waters. Catch the breeze, take in the salty air and capture beautiful pictures of the sunset.

Also known as a local hot spot for fishing – Cobia, King Mackerel, Pompano and many more species of fish are the common catch. Rod, bait and tackle are available to rent for anyone’s enjoyment.

Take a catamaran or speedboat cruise

If you have a knack for sailing and sunsets, obviously a sunset catamaran cruise is a must! There’s just something about coasting the waters with the wind in your face during the golden hour.

Or, have you seen the crazy fast speedboat rides? I mean you go FAST. Talk about a watercoaster thrill! While these may not be suited for very young children, I still consider it a family-friendly experience for appropriate ages. Check it out if this tickles your adrenaline fancy.

Go beach hopping

If you have the means, I recommend going beach hopping! To the west, you have Laguna Beach, Sunnyside Beach, and Rosemary Beach just to name a few. If you can trek the 16 miles to visit Rosemary Beach (or take a short Uber ride), you can experience the picturesque architecture with ornate shopping and dining in downtown Rosemary Beach.

Sometimes the best part of vacationing – where the gems are found – is visiting the quaint little towns and districts nearby.

Shipwreck Island

Enjoy a love for the water another way – minus the sand and saltwater – at the Shipwreck Island water park! It may be small, but it’s big fun for the whole family. The park includes river rapids and a few flume rides, but you can also kick back and relax by the wave pool or in the lazy river.

There’s a variety of family-friendly fun in the small beach town of PCB – so plan your fun today. Whether it be relaxing by the beach, exploring the nearby state parks, or delving into the local attractions – Panama City Beach allows you to discover the many ways to make it yours.

Visit Panama City Beach for more information.