Top 8 Things to Do In Panama City Beach

family on beach vacation

Panama City Beach is known for its 27 miles of white-sand beaches, but this city in Northwest Florida has so much more to offer. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach is a family-friendly destination with nature, shopping, dining, entertainment, museums, and attractions both adults and kids will love. When planning your vacation to Panama City Beach, use our guide for the top things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida. 

St. Andrews State Park

When in Panama City Beach, it would be a crime to skip over St. Andrews State Park. The park is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Florida, with its magnificent white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and over 200 days of sunshine. The park also has tons of activities including fishing, boating, and snorkeling. Plan a day trip to St. Andrews State Park to be totally blown away. 

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

If you’re looking for a quick dose of adrenaline, head down to Shipwreck Island Waterpark to get your fix. From rides like “White Knuckle River” and “Pirates Plunge” to the “Ocean Motion Wave Pool” and the lazy river, Shipwreck Island has something for everyone. Whether you’re bringing the family or just looking to get your tan on, the waterpark is a great way to spend a day while in Panama City Beach. 

ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory

At the ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world’s coolest and most exotic animals. Unlike a regular zoo, the conservatory allows more interaction with the animals. This gives you the chance to feed alligators, pet a sloth, and snuggle a lemur.

If you’re feeling a bit on the wild side, you can even pet a porcupine! The ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory is a great destination for kids and adults alike. 

Race City

Do you have the need for speed? Well, if you do, Race City is the spot for you. Featuring some of the wildest Go-Kart tracks in the state of Florida, Race City is loads of fun. The park features multiple different Go-Kart tracks for all different skill levels. Whether it’s your first time driving a Go-Kart, or if you consider yourself a pro, Race City has you covered.

The park also features attractions such as bumper boats, thrill rides, mini-golf, and a massive 10,000 square foot arcade. You can’t go wrong when you visit Race City. 

Man in the Sea Museum

For a more educational experience during your time in Panama City Beach, pay a visit to Man in the Sea Museum. The museum documents the history of man’s adventures in the sea. This includes submarines, sea exploration by the US Navy, and commercial diving. The museum features exhibits of all of these things and more. You can take a look at Sealab 1 - which was developed by the Navy as the first underwater living facility. 

Emerald Coast Mirror Maze

For a unique experience during your time in Panama City Beach, check out Emerald Coast Mirror Maze. The facility features a mirror maze that’s over 2,000 square feet of fun. The maze also has an awesome light and sound show that’s sure to dazzle all visitors. And before you leave, be sure to get a game of laser tag in at super fun course. 

Cold Spring Eco Tour

Embark on a Cold Spring Eco Tour for an experience in nature that you will never forget. On this tour, you’ll explore Cypress Springs, a lesser-known freshwater spring that is wildly beautiful. The spring fills a river basin that’s perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. Plus, the water is a stunning turquoise color that will make your jaw drop.

Cypress Springs is also an awesome destination for snorkeling. Fish love to hang out in the roots of the tall surrounding Cypress trees - for which the springs are named. A Cold Spring Eco Tour is perhaps the best way to spend a hot day in Panama City Beach. 

Panama City Beach Winery

Check out Panama City Beach Winery for an awesome wine tasting experience. This winery is unique in that it makes many of its wines from fruits and berries from the surrounding area. The local fruits and berries make for very refreshing and subtly sweet wines. Tastings at the winery occur daily. 

Plan Your Panama City Beach Vacation 

Create a dream vacation with our guide for the top 8 things to do in Panama City Beach. When you book a stay at Aqua, you are located conveniently near some of Panama City Beach's best things to do. Book your condo rental today. 

Published on Friday, December 9, 2022