Window Shopping
Take window shopping to a whole new level at Pier Park. Panama City Beach’s 1.1 million acre open-air lifestyle center is the place to see and be seen. Gorgeous pastel colors and ocean breezes make walking the streets a pleasure. A destination in itself, Pier Park is home to a fabulous array of shops, from popular names and department stores to unique boutique stores. A treat for all the senses, enjoy the colorful sights, sounds and delicious aromas that fill the air. See the original carousel from Panama City Beach’s Miracle Strip Amusement Park in its new home, and check out the new Russell Fields Pier at Pier Park’s southern entrance. There’s no better place to spend time without an agenda. With your wallet or without, Pier Park is a must on any Panama City Beach itinerary.
Alvin\’s Island
Visit Alvin’s Island Magic Mountain Mall on Front Beach and Alf Coleman Road. This may be a superstore, but you don’t have to spend any money to browse the endless array of beach souvenirs, gifts, clothing, accessories, home décor and more. Every conceivable Panama City Beach souvenir can be found here, and checking it all out will provide hours of fun. There’s even daily alligator feedings – be sure to bring your camera for some fun family photos!
Groovin on The Green
Get your groove on at Carillon Beach’s “Groovin’ on the Green” summer concert series. Held every Monday night through August 31st and with a final concert on Sunday, September 6th, this free concert series is a great way to spend a lazy evening in the fresh air. The performances take place on the Village Green at Carillon Beach, a casually elegant resort community located on the very west end of the beach. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and pick out your spot. Concerts feature incredible music from all genres, including jazz, country, blues, reggae and Top 40. Shows start at 7pm. Get ready to rock!
Beach Day!
Spend a day on Trip Advisor’s # 2 beach in the country – St. Andrew’s State Park. What a beach! If you are looking for that perfect spot to relax, this is it. Soft, powder white sands and emerald green waters provide an idyllic backdrop for all types of fun in the sun. Prefer to do something active? St. Andrew’s State Park is a fantastic spot for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. Two fishing piers, a jetty, and a boat ramp provide ample fishing opportunities for anglers. There are also two nature trails that are great for both hiking and bird-watching. See for yourself what makes this award winning beach so special. ($8 entrance fee per vehicle)
Pier Park Summer Concerts
Are you a music fan but unable to make it to Carillon Beach on a Monday? Don’t miss Pier Park’s free summer concert series held every Thursday through August 20th at the Aaron Bessant Amphitheater! A popular Panama City Beach event, the concerts are free, and feature funky music that will have you up and dancing in no time. Music ranges from rock, pop, bluegrass, country, jazz, blues and more. If you miss the concert, you can still make it a Thursday night to remember. Head to Grand Lagoon on Thomas Drive for a totally free and utterly spectacular fireworks display over the water. The event starts with a bang every Thursday through August 27th. Watch the dazzling display from a boat on the water, your table at one of the Lagoon’s three sensational restaurants, or from your hand-picked spot on the docks.
Camp Helen
Camp Helen State Park is one of Panama City Beach’s best kept secrets, and a must for any fan of the beach. Located approximately six miles west of Highway 79, Camp Helen is tucked away in a quiet spot on the far west end of the beach, perfect for those seeking an uncrowded and relaxing day at the beach. The park is bordered on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, which is one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida. Activities include swimming, hunting for shells, bird watching and nature trails, hiking, and both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Get away from the hustle and bustle and spend some quality time with your toes in the sand. ($4 entrance fee per vehicle)
Panama City Beach has attractions and activities for all budgets, the number one of course being our beautiful beaches! It costs nothing to spend the day having fun in the sun on our white sands and in our sparkling waters. Take silly photos of the family in various beach poses, and create a memorable scrapbook that will keep you laughing for years to come. Pack a picnic and have dinner under the stars. Or simply savor a stunning sunset from your balcony. Whatever the size of your wallet, there are unlimited ways to enjoy the best of Panama City Beach without breaking the bank.
