What is There to Do in Panama City Beach Besides the Beach

Planning a vacation to Panama City Beach, Florida, means gearing up for sun-filled days, incredible beach hangs, delicious seafood, and endless opportunities for fun. From the white sand beaches to the thrilling nightlife, it’s a destination that keeps friends and families coming back year after year. While we know most of your time will be spent splashing in the waves, especially if you’re staying in our Summerhouse PCB condos, one question we get asked a lot is, “What is there to do in Panama City Beach besides the beach?” If you’re wondering the same thing, our helpful blog on top activities in PCB is full of suggestions that will keep the fun going. Whether you need some indoor activities in Panama CIty Beach for a rainy-day alternative, or you just want a break from the sand and salt, this guide will get you where you're going. Check them out below and get ready for a fantastic Panama City Beach getaway.

Fun ON the Water

Just because you’re not “in” the water doesn’t mean you can’t have fun ON it! If you’re looking to hook the freshest catch in town, head to Russell-Fields City Pier. Located near the famous Pier Park shopping and entertainment hub, this convenient landmark is one of the most popular spots to visit during your vacation. At 1,500 feet long, it’s one of the longest piers on the Gulf of Mexico, allowing you to walk far out over the water and cast your line for flounder, redfish, snapper, and more. Want to take the fishing adventure out further? Panama CIty Beach fishing charters are available all across town and can help you find the perfect spot to try for mahi-mahi, mackerel, grouper, and even spotted seatrout.

Beyond fishing, you can enjoy parasailing, dolphin cruises, and sunset sails. With gorgeous turquoise waters stretching out all around you, spending time on the water in Panama City Beach is the next best thing to being in it. So be sure to add water activities in Panama City Beach to your list!

Thrills, Hills, and Waterslide Spills

From state parks to theme parks, there are loads of exciting activities in Panama City Beach, no matter what kind of fun you’re looking to have. If nature is your vibe, you’ll love the hiking and biking trails and dunes at St. Andrews State Park or PCB Conservation Park. With boardwalks through lush maritime forests and paved pathways that wind along the wetlands, you can spend an afternoon surrounded by native wildlife and beautiful scenery as you explore beyond the shore.

For the thrill seekers, Race City Amusement Park delivers on all the excitement. From easy-going rides great for little ones to high-flying G-force turns on towering roller coasters, you’ll find it all here. Additionally, they have glow-in-the-dark putt-putt perfect for practicing your short game, the fastest and tallest go-kart track in the city, and a 10,000-foot mega arcade filled with classic games and prizes. If you’re looking for some great family activities in Panama CIty Beach, or just need an adrenaline rush, this is the place to be.

Looking for lazy rivers, jellyfish-free waves, and exciting vertical slides? Shipwreck Island has all that and more. Perfect for visitors of all ages, you can have a sand-free day of fun in the sun when you visit this seasonal hotspot. Race the family down the Zoom Flume, then hold on tight through White Knuckle River. When you need a break, grab a bite at the Ship’s Grill or wander the Pirate’s Plunder Gift Shop. Smaller kids will love the Tadpole Hole and Great Shipwreck with their shallow pools and sprinkler features. From the Tree Top Drop to the brand-new Splash Cove, this is one park you’ll be talking about long after you return home.

Casual Days to Wild Night

Golf

Now that we’ve covered the adventurous must-dos, let’s take a look at some of the more indulgent and leisurely activities in Panama City Beach. For golfers, our city’s beautifully designed courses and perfect year-round weather make hitting the links an unbeatable experience. Plus, if you’re staying in one of our Summerhouse Panama City Beach condos, you’re close to several incredible courses. Our favorite is Signal Hill, just a few minutes away, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Gulf while you try for par on their carefully manicured greens.

Shopping

When it’s time for some retail therapy, the area has several great farmers’ markets, which are filled with local artisans’ crafts and homemade goodies you can enjoy at your PCB condo. Pier Park has you covered for nationwide chains and boutiques, and our local art galleries are great for finding one-of-a-kind keepsakes. Whether you want to shop ‘til you drop or you just want a fun way to spend the afternoon, checking out our local retailers is one of the most popular activities to do in Panama City Beach besides the beach.

Dining and Nightlife

At night, the city comes alive with neon and starlight. For one of the best meals in town, head to Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant and Waterfront Market. Named one of the “Top 5 Best Local Restaurants in Florida” by Southern Living Magazine, they’ve been a staple in the area since 1953. Try their Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops and the Stuffed Grouper Filet, and thank us later. The perfect spot for family dinners or a romantic date night, you’re guaranteed to devour every bite. After dinner, get ready to hit the town. Panama City Beach is famous for its live music and epic nightlife. From dive bars to dance clubs, you can craft your perfect night out. Our top picks are Hammerhead Fred’s for live entertainment, and Newby’s Too for the perfect sports bar outing.

Of course, these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to  activities in Panama City Beach. For more recommendations from the Summerhouse Condos team, check out our local PCB Area Guide!

Book Your Panama City Beach Condo Today!

There’s plenty of activities in Panama City Beach besides the beach and while this blog has been full of great ideas, you can’t actually take advantage of any of them until you book your trip! At Summerhouse Condos, we have exceptional spaces that put you in the middle of all the action. From prime beach placement to convenient access to all the can’t-miss activities, there’s a reason people return to us time and time again. With two pools, phenomenal views, and several floor plans to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your group or family. Browse our available PCB Condos and book your stay directly with Summerhouse Condos for the best rates in town! We can’t wait to welcome you!