Panama City Beach is a top destination for family vacations, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, exciting attractions, and a wide range of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax by the ocean, enjoy thrilling water rides, or explore nature, Panama City Beach has something for everyone. Today, we will explore some of the best activities and attractions that make Panama City Beach a fantastic place for a family getaway.
And don’t forget, there are plenty of things to do around Panama City as well, making it an even better destination for your holiday. Nearby are the San Blas Islands, a short and exciting boat ride away, where you can spend a day exploring and snorkeling the beautiful waters and exploring the underwater wrecks and natural world. There are plenty of San Blas tours in Panama, from day trips to overnight stays, so don’t miss out.
1. Visit the Beach
No trip to Panama City Beach would be complete without spending time on its stunning beaches. The soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters provide the perfect setting for a day of fun and relaxation. Families can enjoy a variety of beach activities, such as swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach volleyball.
The beaches are also a great place for water sports. You can rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks, or try parasailing for an exhilarating experience. For those who prefer a more laid-back approach, simply lounging on the beach with a good book or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline can be incredibly refreshing. With miles of beautiful coastline, Panama City Beach offers plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the sun and sea.
2. Enjoy a Dinner Show
If you plan to visit Panama City Beach around 2025, then don’t forget to add Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show to your list. Starting in spring 2025, this family-friendly attraction will be one of the fun indoor things to do in Panama City Beach. The show will combine a delicious four-course feast with an impressive array of entertainment, including live performances, acrobatics, and pirate battles.
The show will feature a cast of talented performers who will bring the pirate theme to life with thrilling stunts and musical numbers. The audience will enjoy different cuisines, ensuring a variety of flavors to suit all tastes. The spectacle of the show, combined with the quality of the food, will make it a memorable evening for families.
3. Explore St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park is a natural gem that offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families. Located on a peninsula, the park is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and therefore, offers beautiful scenic views and a diverse ecosystem.
Families can enjoy hiking on the park’s nature trails, which wind through pine forests and along the coastline, offering opportunities to see local wildlife. The park is also a great spot for fishing, with options for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. You can fish from the pier, the shore, or rent a boat for a deeper water experience.
In addition to hiking and fishing, St. Andrews State Park has excellent swimming and snorkeling areas. The calm, clear waters of the lagoon are perfect for young children, while the more adventurous can explore the rock jetties and see a variety of marine life. With picnic areas and playgrounds, the park is a perfect spot for a family day out in nature.
4. Visit the Gulf World Marine Park
Gulf World Marine Park is a must-visit attraction for families. The park offers an up-close look at marine life through interactive exhibits and live shows. The park is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and tropical birds.
One of the main highlights is the dolphin show, where visitors can watch these animals perform tricks and learn about their behavior and conservation. The sea lion and bird shows are equally entertaining and educational, providing insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures.
For a more interactive experience, Gulf World offers opportunities to swim with dolphins, meet penguins, and participate in trainer-for-a-day programs. These hands-on activities make it a memorable and educational experience for children and adults alike.
5. Enjoy Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun. The park features a variety of water rides and attractions suitable for all ages, making it a hit with families.
The park’s main attractions include thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Younger children can enjoy the Tadpole Hole, a shallow play area with mini slides and interactive water features. For those seeking more adventure, the Tree Top Drop and Pirate’s Plunge slides offer exhilarating drops and twists.
Shipwreck Island also has plenty of shaded areas and lounge chairs for relaxing, as well as food stalls offering a variety of snacks and meals. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of activities make it a great place to cool off and have fun.
6. Visit ZooWorld Zoological Park
ZooWorld Zoological Park is a fun and educational destination for families visiting Panama City Beach. This zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and birds.
ZooWorld offers unique animal encounters that allow visitors to get up close with some of the zoo’s residents. You can feed a giraffe, hold a snake, or interact with lemurs, making for an unforgettable experience. The zoo also features daily animal shows that provide interesting facts about the animals and their habitats.
7. Play at Coconut Creek Family Fun Park
Coconut Creek Family Fun Park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for a day of family entertainment. The park features two 18-hole mini-golf courses set in beautifully landscaped surroundings, providing a fun and challenging experience for all ages.
One of the main attractions at Coconut Creek is the Gran Maze, a giant labyrinth that families can navigate together. This life-sized maze is a fun and interactive way to spend time with the family, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.
The park also offers a variety of arcade games and other attractions, making it a great destination for a fun-filled day. Coconut Creek Family Fun Park’s blend of outdoor and indoor activities ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
Panama City Beach is packed with activities and attractions that make it an ideal destination for a family vacation. By planning a trip that includes these diverse attractions, families can create lasting memories and enjoy a well-rounded vacation experience. Panama City Beach’s blend of entertainment, education, and natural beauty ensures that every family member will find something to love. Start planning your Panama City Beach adventure today and discover why this charming city is a top choice for family vacations.
Image: Michael Monahan Unsplash
