Sun & Summit DestinationsPanama City Beach for Families
Twenty-seven miles of white sand, Shell Island boat trips, Pier Park and a quieter shoulder season.
- Best time
- April to May and September to October. Spring break crowds peak in March
- Getting there
- Northwest Florida Beaches International (ECP) is about 25 minutes away
- Getting around
- A car. Front Beach Road is slow in summer; Back Beach Road (Highway 98) is faster
- Stay
- 5–7 nights
Beaches and parks
St. Andrews State Park has calm, clear water in its jetty lagoon, perfect for kids and snorkeling, plus nature trails. Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island, is a short shuttle boat ride from the park.
Pier Park and the piers
Pier Park has shops, restaurants and the SkyWheel near the City Pier. Russell-Fields City Pier and M.B. Miller County Pier are good for fishing and sunsets.
With kids
- Dolphin-watching cruises from Grand Lagoon
- Gulf World Marine Park
- Shipwreck Island Waterpark (summer)
- Mini golf and go-karts along Front Beach Road
Where to stay
These resorts are in very different spots. Pick the one that fits how you want to spend the trip.
Stay at Club Wyndham Panama City Beach
Tell us your dates and we'll check availability and send you a quote.
