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!


67 Complexes available at Panama City Beach

Upcoming Events

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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 12 - Nov 14, 2026

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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 27 - Nov 28, 2026

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Panama City Beach Marathon

Run along the beautiful beaches at the Panama City Beach Marathon and 5K! The event has something for everyone with a Marathon, Half-Marathon, 5K and a Kid’s Fun Run. All participants can enjoy spectacular views on this Boston Qualifying course and a post-race party at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. Register now for your next adventure!

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Dec 05, 2026

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40th Annual Boat Parade of Lights

This cherished community tradition returns for it’s 40th year in Panama City Beach. The waters of St. Andrews Bay will transform into a dazzling Winter Wonderland as the decorated boats make their way through the parade.

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Dec 12, 2026

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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 2026 with one of the world’s largest beach balls.

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Dec 31, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027

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Panama City Beach Mardi Gras & Music Festival

Join all of Panama City Beach for the fun and authentic annual Mardi Gras Celebration. Paired with the Krewe of Dominique Youx’s Mardi Gras at the Beach Parade, this beach-side festival will feature excitement and festivities for all!

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Jan 22 - Jan 23, 2027

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Scottish Festival and Highland Games

Celebrate Scottish heritage at the largest and longest-running Scottish Festival in the Florida Panhandle! Experience thrilling athletic competitions, mesmerizing bagpipe bands, fun-filled activities, authentic food and more.

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Mar 05 - Mar 06, 2027

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UNwineD

Presented by Publix, UNwineD will be a week full of tasting and sampling with local chefs and eateries. This “stylish garden party” will be home to the best craft beer, wine, spirits and cuisine in the region with a a portion of all ticket sales benefiting the Make-A-Wish, Heartland Animal Rescue and Beach Care Service charities.  

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Apr 02 - Apr 03, 2027