- Enjoy some family tie at a Panama City Beach
The Panama City Convention and Visitors Bureau offers visitor information and personalized planning for group outings. Detailed information on lodging, special events, recreation, attractions and dining are all available free of charge from the tourism office. Planning before traveling can save visitors money with online discounts, printable coupons, advance booking rebates and other special offers. The staff at the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau also assists with site inspections for corporate or group events, as well as aiding in coordinating banquets, receptions and promotional events. The tourism office is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visitors can find assistance with vacation and event planning online by clicking to the bureau's website, or by calling 1-800-PCBEACH. - Search for seashells on Shell Island in Panama City
Diving is one of the chief sports and recreational offerings in Panama City. The area is nicknamed, "Wreck Capital of the South" in reference of 50 artificial reefs constructed from sunken debris. Five known shipwrecks occurred along the waters of Panama City, coaxing divers to the area is search of historical memorabilia and other watery treasures. Approximately 100 natural barrier reefs are located along the shoreline of area beaches. Reef walls reach heights of 8 feet and are alive with a myriad of sea creatures. Snorkeling is also a popular pass-time with both visitors and locals. The St. Andrews State Park area offer prime snorkeling locations. Divers can charter a private boat, or buy a ticket from one of the many commercial boats offering group diving and snorkeling services. Diving and snorkeling equipment can be rented at beachside stores. Workshops are also offered for new divers. The best times for diving at Panama City Beaches are during the months of April through September. - Enjoy a sunset picnic at a Panama City Beach!
Panama City Beaches have won awards from notable travel magazines and clean earth foundations for beach quality. St. Andrews State Park features 1,260 acres of beach and green space. Sea oats and fresh water marshes attract eco-friendly travels and bird watchers to the area. A clear blue and green lagoon area is also among the popular free attractions of this Florida State Park. A ferry runs daily, taking travelers to Shell Island. Once off the ferry, visitors can hike the barrier island, sun bathe, or collect seashells at no charge. - Enjoy a fresh seafood meal and live music in Panama City.
Sport fishing along the Gulf of Mexico attracts professional and novice anglers alike. A blue marlin weighing in at over 1,000 pounds was caught during the annual Baypoint Invitational Billfish Tournament. This record-breaking catch, along with large red snapper draw large crowd to the three fishing piers in Panama City. Fishing tournaments occur year around, with many other events offering large purses for the winners. Commercial anglers rent space on boats to visitors who wish to cast a line.
. - Dining and nightlife options offer something to please in all prices ranges. Seafood restaurants are the most prevalent style of dining in Panama City. Anglers fill the restaurants pots with fresh seafood caught daily in local waters. Swordfish steak and Gulf scallops are local specialties offered at moderate to upscale restaurants. An Indian Summer Seafood Festival is held annually during the second week of October. This family friendly festival offers live music, scores of seafood vendors, art displays, and special exhibits. Multiple dance clubs featuring jazz, country, classic rock, big band era, and beach music can be found in beach area hot spots
Planning a Visit
Diving and Snorkeling
Beaches and Barrier Reef Island
Fishing
Dining and Nightlife
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