Panama City FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Panama City, Florida.
1. Panama City Beach
GULF COAST CLASSIC
Panama City Beach is known for its 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches along the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, offering a lively setting with stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water recreation activities including swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and playing beach volleyball. The vibrant pier areas and beachfront parks add to its appeal, making it a favorite destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers.
2. St. Andrews State Park
NATURE-LOVER'S PARADISE
St. Andrews State Park offers a tranquil setting with pristine beaches, emerald waters, and nature trails, nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing, with ample wildlife spotting opportunities such as dolphins and migratory birds. The park's jetties and scenic boardwalks provide iconic spots for relaxation and exploration.
3. Shell Island
REMOTE BEACH ESCAPE
Shell Island is a wild, undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat, boasting untouched shoreline and pristine waters. Known for its soft sand and abundant shells, this spot invites visitors to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or search for dolphins and shorebirds. The island's natural beauty and sense of seclusion make it a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful waterfront escape.
4. Camp Helen State Park
LAKESIDE MEETS OCEAN
Camp Helen State Park features a rare blend of coastal dune lake, freshwater pond, and Gulf beach, surrounded by majestic dunes and forest. Guests can swim in the Gulf, paddle or fish on Lake Powell, hike scenic trails, and spot wildlife in a serene natural setting. Its unique mix of lake and oceanfront environments offers diverse recreation and stunning photo opportunities.
5. Rick Seltzer Park
LOCAL BEACH GEM
Rick Seltzer Park is a public beach access point that features clean sand, gentle surf, and picnic facilities, making it ideal for families and casual beachgoers. The park offers ample parking, restrooms, and shaded pavilions, with lifeguards present during peak seasons for safe swimming. It's especially popular among locals for its relaxed atmosphere and easy shoreline access.
6. Crooked Island Beach
SECLUDED SHORELINE RETREAT
Crooked Island Beach is an under-the-radar stretch of coastline known for its calm, uncrowded sands and sparkling Gulf waters. The beach is perfect for peaceful swimming, shelling, and shore fishing, offering a remote atmosphere away from the crowds. Its untouched natural setting attracts those seeking solitude and a quieter beach day.
7. Cypress Springs
CRYSTAL-CLEAR SWIMMING HOLE
Cypress Springs, located inland from Panama City, is one of the area's most beautiful freshwater springs, known for its clear, blue waters surrounded by lush forest. Visitors can swim, kayak, snorkel, or paddleboard in the refreshing spring, which stays a cool temperature year-round. The natural beauty and pristine water offer a unique alternative to ocean beaches.
8. Frank Brown Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AQUATIC CENTER
Frank Brown Park features a large aquatic center with pools and splash features, as well as nearby lakes for fishing and scenic walkways. The park welcomes families to swim, play, and explore its sports and recreation facilities. Its well-kept grounds and variety of amenities make it a favorite for both relaxation and active water play.
9. Grayton Beach State Park
WILD GULF COAST BEAUTY
Grayton Beach State Park is celebrated for its crystalline sand dunes, emerald-green waters, and adjacent coastal dune lake, offering a mix of swimming, paddling, and fishing opportunities. The park's unspoiled beachfront and tranquil scenery attract nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. It is an excellent location for photography, picnicking, and experiencing the unspoiled Gulf coastline.
10. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
PRISTINE PANHANDLE PENINSULA
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park boasts one of the most scenic and isolated beaches in the Florida Panhandle, famous for powdery white sand and rich wildlife. Visitors can swim, snorkel, kayak, and fish in the clear Gulf waters or explore extensive sand dunes and coastal forests. The park offers a peaceful, natural escape popular for camping and beachcombing.