Panama City Beach Vacation Information

An average of 320 sunny days annually make Panama City Beach, Florida, the ultimate seaside getaway year-round. The area has plenty to offer visitors of all ages, not the least of which are 27 miles of white-sand beaches lapped by the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

For those who prefer action to lounging on the sand or dabbling in the surf, fishing, swimming, sailing, diving, snorkeling, and other water sports are popular diversions. And nearby Shell Island is one of the best spots in Florida for shelling. This unspoiled island, which can be reached only by boat and still looks much the way it did hundreds of years ago, is also a great place to go snorkeling.

Even if you’re really a landlubber at heart, you’ll find plenty to do at Panama City Beach. Shopping, golfing, and hiking the nature trails at St. Andrews State Park are all popular pastimes away from the water. Or, for an up-close look at the dolphins and other undersea wonders that doesn’t involve getting your feet wet, opt for a tour in a glass-bottom boat. Many tour operators also make stops at Shell Island.

The mild, sunny weather means that Panama City Beach is a popular venue for special events year-round, and the area hosts everything from seafood festivals to wine tastings, arts and crafts fairs to open-air concerts. Start planning your best Panama City Beach getaway today!


63 Complexes available at Panama City Beach

Upcoming Events

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Panama City Beach Oktoberfest

Get ready for German food, beer and music with this three-day festival! Panama City Beach's Oktoberfest will feature a massive, authentic tent and two outdoor beer gardens alongside a variety of activities for families and kids.

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Oct 03 - Oct 05, 2025

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Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest

This free celebration offers an action-packed weekend filled with everything from a fire circus to live mermaid shows. And for some extra fun, travel back in time with the newer Renaissance addition where festival-goers can enjoy the enchanted marketplace alongside sword demonstrations and more. 

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Oct 10 - Oct 12, 2025

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Paws in the Park

Paws in the Park is the ultimate celebration for all animal lovers in Panama City Beach. Bring your furry friends and browse a variety of vendors, adoption booths and exciting demonstrations!

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Oct 19 - Oct 29, 2025

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Thunder Beach Fall Motorcycle Rally

Spread across a variety of destinations in Panama City Beach, the biannual Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally offers unique experiences at every location. Enjoy everything from national motorcycle vendors and exciting bike shows to live entertainment and a breathtaking ride along the beach.

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Oct 22 - Oct 26, 2025

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Panama City Beach Ironman

Become an Ironman in this internationally recognized competition by swimming 2.4 miles in the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, biking 112 miles through stunning Florida pines and running 26.2 miles along the Emerald Coast shoreline. With flat courses and warm waters, this race is perfect for first timers or experienced athletes looking to set personal records. There is also a Half Ironman available.

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Nov 01, 2025

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Emerald Coast Cruizin' Fall

The biannual Emerald Coast Cruizin' Car Show returns to Aaron Bessant Park this fall. This family friendly event is a giant outdoor show room with something on display for every automotive enthusiast!

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Nov 06 - Nov 08, 2025

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Beach Home for the Holidays

Beach Home for the Holidays is an exciting fun-filled weekend bringing in a festive vibe for the holiday season. The event includes everything from orchestra and ballet performances to the tree lighting and a visit from Santa. Be sure to check the website for exact schedules!

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Nov 28 - Nov 29, 2025

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New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop

Ring in the New Year with the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration in Panama City Beach! Named the “Best New Year’s Eve Drop” by USA Today 10Best, this exciting event has fun for all ages with fireworks, life music, a Kids Fun Zone and more. Attendees can enjoy the 8:00 PM Kids’ Beach Ball Drop or wait until midnight to countdown the end of 2024 with one of the world’s largest beach balls.

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Dec 31, 2025 - Oct 01, 2026