Summary
For about six weeks in the late winter and early spring, Panama City Beach attracts numerous spring break visitors. However, it would be unfair to view this area as merely a spring break party town. At other times of the year, it is tranquil and family-friendly.
The winter months can be quite chilly, with evening temperatures dropping into the 30s F and cold, blustery afternoons that may not appeal to beach-goers. Moreover, bear in mind that some attractions and businesses may close during this time to prepare for the busy months ahead.
Among the best times to visit are from mid-April, after the spring break period, until the summer crowds arrive in June. Fall is another excellent opportunity, as you’ll find warm weather and less traffic.
These tips for your vacation in Panama City, Florida, will help you stay within your budget and enjoy a fantastic getaway.
Affordable Places to Stay
Beachfront accommodations in Panama City tend to be significantly more affordable than in many other resort destinations. Nonetheless, it pays to shop carefully for not only the best deal but also the best location. As you search for hotel rooms, don’t forget to consider vacation rentals by owner, especially if you plan to stay for more than 1–2 days. It’s often possible to negotiate weekly rates, which can be competitive with hotel stays.
Among larger options to consider is Laketown Wharf, which offers a location within a short walk of the ocean and stunning views of the area. While the top price for a unit during March can be high, some of these apartments easily accommodate two medium-sized families who could split the cost. Consequently, you gain the advantages of a beach location and a kitchen where you can prepare economical meals. In low season, it’s feasible to reserve such accommodations in Panama City Beach at a much lower price.
Additionally, Airbnb searches can uncover beach bargains. Although your results may vary, it is typically easy to find a variety of affordably priced properties.
Getting Around
Unless you’ll be spending all of your time at the beach, a car rental is essential for visiting the area’s attractions, which are spread out along the Bay County coast. During the off-season, you’ll have a good chance of securing an affordable rental if you compare rates.
A Full Dining Scene
Panama City Beach features fine dining alongside some local quirky favorites. This is a place where individuals escape the daily grind and open eclectic restaurants like Andy’s Flour Power at 2629 Thomas Dr., and Liza’s Kitchen, 7328 Thomas Dr. If you’re considering a significant splurge or two, there are also establishments to enjoy a quality meal without the city prices.
- Saltwater Grill at 11040 Hutchison Blvd. serves great seafood dishes, and it also has a local reputation for quality steaks and salads.
- Boar’s Head at 17290 Front Beach Rd. specializes in prime rib and has roots dating back to 1978. Entrees include bread and a side salad. The restaurant presents multiple specials, including a fried whitefish offer from Tuesday to Friday. Note that it is closed on Mondays.
Saving During Spring Break
Although Panama City Beach is a popular spring break destination, much of the festivities are limited to stretches of public beach and several popular nightclubs. It is quite possible to visit without feeling like an extra in a spring break movie extravaganza.
Panama City Beach has made efforts to market itself as a family destination, making it possible to visit with young children and avoid the issues one might associate with a heavy party scene. Therefore, don’t exclude the area from your list just because it caters to college students for a few weeks a year; you may find savings by steering clear of Spring Break favorites.
St. Andrews State Park
Beyond the beach itself, St. Andrews State Park might be one of the most treasured attractions in the Panama City Beach area. It draws large numbers of visitors, competing with parks in much more populated regions of Florida. Alongside its scenic beaches, the park offers trails where wildlife can be observed in a natural setting. It’s possible to rent bicycles, kayaks, and canoes, with camping facilities available, though they’re often in high demand. Plan to set aside at least one day to fully appreciate what it offers visitors.
This sugar-white sandy beach appeals to sunbathers, children eager to build sandcastles, and anyone who enjoys the combination of sand and surf. The park also features its own 500-foot pier extending into the Gulf.
The pristine sands stretch about 1.5 miles along the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon. Admission to the park is charged per vehicle, allowing 2–8 people. The charge for pedestrians and cyclists is $2.
Approximately 700 acres of the park lay on undeveloped Shell Island, a barrier island connected to the mainland by shuttle boat tours during spring and summer. Tickets are available at the park concession.
Avoid Discount Scams
Florida is notorious for its billboards and fliers that proclaim “deep discounts” and “cheap rooms.” While not all offers are misleading, many times a coupon or discount simply reduces the cost of a product that was overpriced from the beginning. Other offers may save you money but could come with strings attached. Therefore, exercise caution.
Things to Do and Not Do
Once you have your accommodations and rental car sorted out along with a meal plan, there are additional considerations about Panama City that will appeal to budget-conscious travelers. Visitor tips include:
- Consider Some of the Area Attractions. The beach is obviously the primary attraction here, and much of your day could revolve around sand, surf, and sunshine. However, the area has developed a multitude of other attractions. You’ll need to decide which ones merit your time and money. For instance, Conservation Park, which offers free entry, allows visitors to observe local wildlife. This 3,000-acre city park features 12 trails ideal for birdwatching and wildlife sighting.
- All Florida Beaches are Open to the Public. While you can’t cross private property to access a beach, the state of Florida guarantees public access points. Once on the beach, you’re free to walk wherever you like. Covering a 27-mile stretch of coastline, Panama City Beach offers 100 public access points that are numbered and clearly marked. Keep this in mind as you secure accommodations; you don’t need a beachfront room for daily access to the beach.
- Sunburn Can Ruin Vacations. Many Florida vacationers have rushed to the beach, spread out a towel, and ended up ruining their trip in just an hour. The direct sunlight in Florida can cause sunburn quickly, particularly during summer months. Thus, investing in quality sunscreen and applying it regularly is the cheapest form of travel insurance available over the counter.
- Be Safe. Panama City Beach is mainly a safe destination with very few crime-related threats. Nevertheless, any location with large numbers of visitors will inevitably attract opportunistic criminals. In a beach setting, many people might naively secure their keys and wallets in their shoes. It only takes a few seconds to lose your valuables.
