Panama City Beach Area Guide
Things To Do On Florida's Emerald Coast
Our Resorts Are The Perfect Homebase For Your Panama City Beach Vacation
Welcome to Panama City Beach, where the turquoise waves of the Emerald Coast, sugar-white sand, and exciting local experiences come together to create unforgettable vacations. Whether you're planning a spring break escape, celebrating a special occasion, or heading to the Florida Panhandle for a family getaway, you’ll be right in the heart of it all when you stay with Nautical Properties.
In this area guide, we’ll walk you through the best places to Eat, Play, Explore, and Relax, all just moments from our resort condos and beach homes.
Our rentals include access to resort-style amenities, beachfront locations, and easy walkability to shops, restaurants, and attractions. Properties like Calypso, Laketown Wharf, Gulf Highlands Beach Resort, Emerald Beach, and Sunbird Beach Resort offer direct beach access, while all of our resort condos come with pool access and prime locations near everything Panama City Beach has to offer!
Eat
From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to beachfront bars with live music, Panama City Beach has something for every appetite.
- Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market has been a local legend since 1953. Known for its world-famous seafood platter, it’s the kind of place that turns first-time visitors into lifelong fans. We recommend the oven-broiled stuffed jumbo Gulf shrimp, or if you’re feeling extra indulgent, the broiled Florida lobster with deviled crab. There are even gluten-free options available.
- The Grand Marlin Restaurant & Oyster Bar elevates dining on the Gulf Coast with a polished, upscale atmosphere and an extensive oyster selection. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or a celebratory evening out.
- If your beach day turns into a beach night, head to Pineapple Willy’s. This beachfront favorite delivers frozen cocktails, island nachos, coconut shrimp, and live music nightly. Plus, unbeatable views of the Emerald Coast.
- For a casual meal just steps from the sand, try Barefoot on the Beach Bar & Grill. With coastal favorites and plenty of room to relax, it’s a go-to for lunch, dinner, or post-beach drinks.
No matter which Panama City Beach vacation rental you’re staying in, you’ll be just minutes from these delicious spots and many more.
Find Delicious Restaurants
Play
There’s never a dull moment when you vacation in Panama City Beach. Whether it’s fishing, go-karts, water adventures, or escape rooms, the fun never stops! No matter how you play, there’s something for your trip that will be unforgettable. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a splash-worthy hit with families thanks to its wave pool, lazy river, and raft rides.
- Hop aboard the SkyWheel Panama City Beach for panoramic views of the coastline, especially magical at sunset.
- Gulf World Marine Park lets you get up close with dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, and more in hands-on exhibits and shows.
- For land-based fun, hit up Emerald Falls Family Recreation Center for mini golf, go-karts, and arcade games.
- Want to reel in a big one? Our guests love booking fishing charters along the coast or getting a bird's eye view on a parasailing adventure
- And if you’re into golf, tee off at Camp Creek Golf Club or Bay Point Golf Club, both local favorites with lush fairways and Florida charm.
From pulse-pounding adventures to classic family attractions, you’ll find plenty of ways to play hard and make lasting memories during your PCB vacation.
Try Fun & Thrilling Activities
Explore
Panama City Beach is well known for its amazing fishing, eco-tours, and water adventures! Explore the Emerald Coast like never before with amazing tours led by members of our community. From casual bike rides to extreme boating adventures, there’s something perfect for everyone on your vacation! Check out these recs:
- St. Andrews State Park is a must-visit. This Bay County treasure features hiking trails, snorkeling areas, and one of the best spots for dolphin watching on the Gulf Coast.
- Hop on a boat or kayak and head to Shell Island, a peaceful stretch of undeveloped barrier island known for its seashells, sand dunes, and untouched beauty.
- Take the kids to the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida. It’s packed with interactive exhibits and outdoor play zones.
- For off-the-beaten-path adventures, book an eco-tour with Cold Water Excursions or Brochin Expeditions. Paddleboard through quiet bayous, explore crystal-clear springs, and connect with the wild side of northwest Florida.
- Or spend the day exploring Camp Helen State Park, where you can wander coastal dunes, visit freshwater lakes, and see old-growth oaks.
However you choose to explore, there’s no shortage of natural beauty and adventure just outside your front door.
Explore The Best Of PCB
Relax
We all get busy with family, work, and life. Don’t forget to set aside a little you-time on your vacation. Treat yourself to a spa treatment, massage therapy, meditation session, or even some good-old-fashioned retail therapy.
- Indulge in a massage, facial, or full spa day at Tranquility by the Sea Spa, a favorite for its Himalayan Salt Stone Massage and couples' services.
- Shop and stroll at Pier Park, home to boutiques, restaurants, and big-name brands in a relaxed, open-air environment.
- Join a bay-front yoga class with Brooke Faust’s Sunset Yoga, hosted regularly at Oaks by the Bay. It’s a local-loved way to wind down after a day of PCB fun.
Taking time to make sure your vacation provides that much-needed R&R is so important, and we at Nautical Properties can help you find the perfect way to unwind when you book your stay directly with our local team.
Enjoy Relaxing ActivitiesBook Your Panama City Beach Vacation Today!
Whether you're here to spend every day at the beach or you want to get out and explore everything Panama City Beach has to offer, there's no better way to experience the area than with Nautical Properties. Our Panama City Beach vacation rentals at Laketown Wharf, Emerald Beach Resort, and beyond give you access to it all, with private balconies, resort-style amenities, and unbeatable beach proximity.
Browse our full catalog of Panama City Beach vacation rentals and start dreaming up your beach escape today!
*Did you know we also have properties in Nashville, TN? If Music City is on your horizon, be sure to check out our Nashville Properties as well!