White, sunbaked sand drops off into crystal clear waters on three sides of the peninsula, but this city is no quaint beach town.
Just a quick drive from state capital Tallahassee is one of Florida’s hottest spring break destinations. Panama City is sometimes misrepresented as Panama City Beach, which is actually its own city, but since they’re so close it almost doesn’t matter. Perhaps the two will meld into one someday, but for now they remain the fun, resort-style playground on the Gulf, and the (slightly) more buttoned-up sibling on the bay. Confusion over a name is nothing new here, with the area previously adopting monikers Floriopolis, Park Resort, and Harrison. Whatever its name, call it a good time.
There’s no mystery about what to do in Panama City, since there’s a 75 percent chance that wherever you’re standing, you’ll be looking toward water. Boat through Saint Andrew Bay, your gateway to the Gulf; or swim, snorkel, or kayak on its north, west, and east arms, which reach out to hug this sand break-protected peninsula. The limbs meet at Grand Lagoon, and what a view! From emerald green to turquoise to cerulean to deep blue, the whole spectrum of gorgeous water is represented here.
Off the water, have a good time while swinging a club at Signal Hill Golf Course. Other things to do in Panama City include the mind-expanding pieces at the Visual Arts Center and the spirit-lifting Pine Log State Forest. But as all beach-front cities can attest to, sometimes doing nothing—with a drink in hand, under the shade of an umbrella—can be just as rewarding.
Good thing our Panama City vacation packages are here. You can begin your relaxation by booking one now and hardly lifting a finger to click your mouse. Good times soon to come.