Top 10 Best Beach Getaways Panama City Beach for Your Next Vacation

Panama City Beach, located on the stunning Gulf of Mexico in Florida, is a well-known destination for travelers seeking picturesque white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly beach experience, or adrenaline-pumping water sports, Panama City Beach has it all. In this blog post, we’ll explore the Top 10 Beach Getaways in Panama City Beach, highlighting what makes each one unique and worth visiting on your next vacation.

1. St. Andrews State Park

 

St. Andrews State Park is a nature lover’s paradise and one of the most beautiful beaches in Panama City Beach. With over 1,200 acres of pristine coastline, visitors can explore its sandy shores, calm waters, and lush nature trails. The park is known for its biodiversity, featuring local wildlife like deer, alligators, and migratory birds.

Activities:

• Snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking are popular here due to the park’s calm, shallow waters.
• Visitors can hike on nature trails, fish off the piers, or take a boat to nearby Shell Island, a secluded getaway with untouched beaches.

Why Visit: If you want to combine your beach trip with some light hiking and wildlife viewing, this is the perfect spot. The park’s secluded beaches also make it a great place to escape the crowds.

2. Shell Island

Located just off the coast of St. Andrews State Park, Shell Island is one of Panama City Beach’s hidden gems. Accessible only by boat or shuttle, Shell Island offers seven miles of unspoiled white sand and turquoise waters.

Activities:

• Shell collecting is a favorite pastime here, as the island lives up to its name with an abundance of shells scattered along the beach.
• Visitors often enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and dolphin-watching around the island.

Why Visit: Shell Island provides a tranquil, remote beach experience that’s perfect for those looking to escape the busy mainland beaches. It’s also a great spot for nature enthusiasts and families looking for a quiet day trip.

3. Pier Park Beach

If you’re looking for a beach with easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment, Pier Park Beach is the place to be. Located near the Pier Park shopping complex, this beach offers visitors the perfect combination of beach relaxation and convenience.

Activities:

• Aside from swimming and sunbathing, Pier Park Beach is a prime spot for surf fishing.
• After a day at the beach, head to Pier Park for shopping, dining, and live music.

Why Visit: This beach is ideal for families and groups who want a fun, lively atmosphere with plenty of nearby amenities. It’s also a fantastic option for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of Panama City Beach’s entertainment scene.

4. Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park is a historical site as well as a serene beach destination. This 180-acre park is located on the western edge of Panama City Beach and is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida.

Activities:

• Hiking and bird-watching are popular here, thanks to the park’s diverse ecosystems.
• Visitors can also enjoy beachcombing, picnicking, and paddleboarding on Lake Powell.

Why Visit: Camp Helen State Park offers a quieter, more intimate beach experience, perfect for nature lovers or those interested in learning about the area’s history. The presence of the coastal dune lake adds to its uniqueness, making it a one-of-a-kind getaway.

5. M.B. Miller County Pier

M.B. Miller County Pier is one of the best spots for fishing enthusiasts, offering an impressive 1,500-foot pier that stretches into the Gulf. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, this pier is a prime location for catching various fish species.

Activities:

• Fishing is the main attraction, and visitors can rent rods and reels on-site.
• It’s also a great place for taking in the sunset or simply enjoying the panoramic views of the Gulf.

Why Visit: If you enjoy fishing or want to try it for the first time, this is the best beach in Panama City Beach for the activity. The pier also provides a stunning vantage point for photography and sightseeing.

6. Carillon Beach

Located on the western end of Panama City Beach, Carillon Beach is a peaceful, upscale community known for its uncrowded, serene atmosphere. This private beach is surrounded by beautiful vacation homes, making it ideal for those looking for a luxurious beach getaway.

Activities:

• The calm waters make it an excellent spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing with family.
• The nearby Carillon Beach Resort offers spa services, restaurants, and boutique shopping.

Why Visit: If you’re seeking a more exclusive, luxury experience away from the crowds, Carillon Beach is the perfect spot. The pristine surroundings and high-end amenities make it a favorite for those wanting a refined beach escape.

7. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach offers a nostalgic, Old Florida charm with its quiet, laid-back vibe. Located west of the busier parts of Panama City Beach, this beach is less developed, giving it a more natural and unspoiled feel.

Activities:

• Sunbathing and swimming are the main draws here, with plenty of space to spread out.
• The lack of high-rise buildings and large hotels keeps the beach relatively uncrowded, even during peak season.

Why Visit: Laguna Beach is perfect for those who want a peaceful, no-frills beach experience. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families, retirees, or anyone looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas.

8. Schooners Beach

Located near the popular restaurant Schooners, this beach offers a lively atmosphere with direct access to one of Panama City Beach’s most beloved beachside hangouts. It’s the perfect combination of great food, fun, and beautiful beach scenery.

Activities:

• Beachgoers can relax on the shore, swim in the Gulf, or grab a bite to eat at Schooners.
• It’s also a great place to watch the daily sunset celebration, where the restaurant fires a cannon to mark the setting sun.

Why Visit: For those who want a lively beach scene with easy access to great food and entertainment, Schooners Beach is the perfect spot. The vibrant atmosphere and sunset celebrations make it a memorable experience.

9. Seaside Beach

Seaside Beach is just a short drive from Panama City Beach, but it offers a charming, small-town feel that makes it worth the trip. With its pastel-colored cottages, pristine beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere, Seaside is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Activities:

• Aside from enjoying the beach, visitors can explore the town’s art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants.
• The area is known for its outdoor movie nights and live music events, offering entertainment beyond the beach.

Why Visit: Seaside Beach is perfect for families or couples looking for a charming, laid-back beach experience with plenty of cultural and entertainment options nearby. Its picturesque setting also makes it one of the most Instagrammable beaches in the area.

10. Mexico Beach

Though located slightly farther east of Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach is worth the drive for those seeking a quiet, unspoiled beach experience. This small-town beach is known for its white sands, clear waters, and absence of high-rise buildings, giving it a more natural and serene feel.

Activities:

• Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities in the calm waters.
• Mexico Beach is also a great spot for beachcombing, and you might even find some rare shells or sand dollars along the shore.

Why Visit: If you’re willing to venture a bit farther for peace and quiet, Mexico Beach offers a truly relaxing getaway. Its uncrowded shores and friendly community make it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots.

Conclusion

Panama City Beach is a premier destination for beach lovers, offering a diverse range of getaways from lively, activity-packed shores to peaceful, secluded escapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, family fun, or a quiet retreat, these top 10 beaches cater to every kind of traveler. From the nature-rich St. Andrews State Park and the remote beauty of Shell Island to the lively energy of Schooners Beach and the exclusivity of Carillon Beach, there’s a perfect beach getaway waiting for you in Panama City Beach.

Start planning your trip today and discover why this Gulf Coast destination continues to be a favorite among beachgoers.