We live here. We work on these waters every single day. When people ask us what to do in Panama City Beach — beyond fishing — we actually have answers.

This isn't a recycled list pulled from a travel blog. This is what we'd tell a friend who asked.

Why Panama City Beach, Florida Is Worth the Trip

Panama City Beach sits on one of the most remarkable stretches of coastline in the entire country. Twenty-seven miles of sugar-white sand. Emerald-green water so clear you can see the bottom in fifteen feet. The Gulf of America rolling in warm and calm most of the year.

It's not just a beach town. It's a fishing town, a boat town, a seafood town, a place where the pace slows down the moment you cross the bridge. Whether you're here for a week or a weekend, there's more to do in Panama City Beach, Florida than most people realize — and almost all of it involves the water.

Here's where to start.

Get Out on the Water — The Best Boat Rides and Tours in Panama City Beach

If you're in PCB and you haven't been on the water, you haven't really been to Panama City Beach. The Gulf is the whole point.

Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Deep sea fishing in Panama City Beach is world-class. Federal waters are close, the fish are abundant, and the seasons here are long. Red snapper, grouper, amberjack, mahi-mahi, king mackerel, wahoo — the Gulf produces all of it.

At Reel Groovy Experiences we run private fishing trips in Panama City Florida for groups of all sizes — from a family of four on a half-day nearshore trip to a group of 18 on a 12-hour offshore expedition. Multiple vessels available so we can match your group to the right experience.

See all fishing trips and pricing → Inshore from $400, offshore from $900.

Dolphin Tours Near Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach has a healthy resident dolphin population in the Grand Lagoon and surrounding Gulf waters — and sightings on our dolphin tours are nearly guaranteed. These aren't trained dolphins in a tank. These are wild Gulf dolphins in their natural habitat — swimming alongside the boat, surfing the wake, and doing exactly what dolphins do when nobody's telling them to.

Our 2-hour private dolphin cruise departs from Captain Anderson's Marina aboard the Reel GRooV. Private means your group only — no strangers, no sharing the rail, no rushing. Up to 18 passengers, shaded deck, A/C cabin, Bluetooth sound system, and onboard restroom. Bring your camera. Bring the kids. Bring whoever needs a reason to slow down for two hours.

Starting at $450. One of the most universally loved experiences in Panama City Beach — kids and adults both leave talking about it.

If you're searching for dolphin tours near me in the PCB area, this is the trip. Book direct for our best rates.

Shell Island Panama City Beach

Shell Island is a 7-mile undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat — no bridges, no development, no crowds compared to the main beach. Shell Island beach Panama City is one of the most beautiful and least-visited stretches of coastline in Florida. Excellent shelling, clear water for snorkeling, and dolphins frequently swim alongside boats on the way over. Several pontoon rental companies operate shuttles from the marina if you want to go independently.

Burial at Sea

Something we offer that most people don't know about — scatter ashes at sea near Panama City Beach. A private, dignified ceremony for families honoring a loved one on the Gulf. Captain Gary handles these with genuine care. Starting at $450.

Captain Anderson's Marina — The Heart of PCB's Water Activities

Almost everything on the water in Panama City Beach connects back to Captain Anderson's Marina at 5550 N Lagoon Drive. It's where Reel Groovy Experiences departs, where the fish cleaning station operates, and where Captain Anderson's Restaurant has been serving legendary seafood since 1967.

If you catch fish with us in the morning, you can walk next door and have them prepared for dinner that same evening. That's the hook and cook experience — and it doesn't get more local than that. See our hook and cook guide for the best PCB restaurants that will prepare your fresh catch.

Captain Anderson's restaurant is also worth visiting on its own — a PCB institution with fresh Gulf seafood and one of the best views at the marina.

Other Boat Experiences Near Panama City Beach

PCB has no shortage of on-water options beyond fishing and cruises.

Sea Screamer Panama City Beach

Billed as the world's largest speedboat, the Sea Screamer PCB is a high-speed thrill ride along the coastline. Good for families looking for something fast and loud.

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise

The Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise is an interactive pirate-themed adventure cruise popular with kids. Treasure hunt, water cannons, characters in costume. Young kids love it.

Jubilee Deep Sea Fishing

Another charter operation in the area for those comparing options. Jubilee Deep Sea Fishing runs shared party boat trips — a different experience than private charters if you're looking for a lower per-person cost and don't mind sharing the boat with strangers.

Water Sports & Adventures in Panama City Beach

If you want to get on the water but fishing isn't your thing, PCB has no shortage of options.

Parasailing

One of the most popular Panama City Beach activities for a reason — soaring 500 feet above the Gulf of America gives you a view of the coastline you simply can't get any other way. Multiple operators run out of the beach daily. Great for all ages and no experience needed.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Panama City Beach is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the entire Southeast — and most people don't know it. The area has over 50 dive sites including natural limestone reefs, artificial reefs, and several sunken ships. Panama City Diving is the go-to local operator for both guided dives and certification courses. For snorkeling, the jetties at St. Andrews State Park are the best accessible spot — clear water, good visibility, and plenty of marine life close to shore.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

The calm morning water in PCB is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking before the afternoon wind picks up. Grand Lagoon is a favorite local spot — protected water, beautiful scenery, and far less boat traffic than the open Gulf. Several rental outfitters operate along Thomas Drive and near the marina.

Banana Boat Rides

A classic beach activity — six people strapped to an inflatable banana being towed behind a boat at speed. Chaotic, wet, and genuinely fun. Great for groups and families with older kids. Multiple operators on the beach run these daily in season.

Jet Skiing

Jet ski rentals are available in PCB — but honestly, I don't recommend them for most visitors. The Gulf of America off Panama City Beach has real chop, especially in the afternoons, and what looks like fun from the shore can turn into a rough, uncomfortable ride fast. If you're an experienced rider who knows open water, go for it. If you're a first-timer or bringing kids, your time and money are better spent on a dolphin tour, sunset cruise, or parasailing. Just being honest with you.

Things to Do in Panama City Beach Beyond the Water

Not every hour of vacation needs to be offshore. PCB has more going on than most people expect.

Pier Park

The main entertainment hub in PCB. Over 100 shops, 15+ restaurants, Dave & Buster's, the Grand IMAX Theatre, and the 200-foot PCB Wheel Ferris wheel with panoramic Gulf views. Good for a rainy afternoon or an evening out.

St. Andrews State Park

One of the most underrated Panama City Beach attractions. 1,260 acres of natural Florida — two beaches, hiking trails, snorkeling at the jetties, wildlife viewing, and the boat shuttle to Shell Island. Camping available. Worth a full day if you have it.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

20-acre waterpark with rides for all ages, a wave pool, and a lazy river. The classic summer afternoon option for families.

Conservation Park

24 miles of free hiking and biking trails just north of the beach. Completely free. Good for early morning runs, mountain biking, bird watching, and getting away from the tourist strip. Underused and underrated.

Sunrise & Sunset Photography

PCB is genuinely one of the most photogenic coastlines in the country. The Gulf water color at golden hour — that teal green going deep blue — is unlike anything on the Atlantic side. Russell-Fields Pier at sunrise is a local favorite. For sunset, get on the water. A sunset cruise puts you right in the middle of it with 360-degree views and nothing between you and the horizon.

Panama City Beach Winery & Duplin Winery

PCB has not one but two worthwhile winery experiences. Panama City Beach Winery on Thomas Drive has been locally owned for over 20 years, crafting award-winning 100% real fruit wines — mango, key lime, guava, and more. Free tastings daily, no reservation needed. The only Florida winery featured at Disney's Epcot Food and Wine Festival.

Duplin Winery is a whole experience — 38,000 square feet with a lakefront patio, live music, wine slushie bar, cheesecake shop, and a Bottle Your Own Wine experience. Southern muscadine wines in a beautiful setting just minutes from the beach. Great for a rainy afternoon or a laid-back evening out.

When You Need a Break from the Sun — Indoor Activities in Panama City Beach

PCB weather is mostly glorious. But Florida afternoons bring storms, and sometimes you just want A/C. Good news — there's plenty to do indoors.

Escape Zone 60

Escape Zone 60 is Panama City Beach's top-rated escape room. Multiple themed rooms, great for groups, date nights, and team challenges. Book ahead — rooms fill up fast in peak season.

Kartona Electric Speedway

Kartona Electric Speedway is the only indoor high-speed electric go-kart track in the Florida Panhandle — and it's genuinely fast. F1-style Italian-built karts, adults up to 45 mph, kids' karts for ages 8–12, helmet-mounted GoPro cameras, arcade games, and private party rooms. Located on Hwy 98. Good for groups, great for competition, and completely climate controlled. One of the most underrated things to do in Panama City Beach.

Rock It Lanes

Rock It Lanes PCB is a full entertainment complex — bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and food all under one roof. Great for families, bachelor/bachelorette groups, or anyone who needs an evening activity after the beach.

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is an upside-down building packed with 100+ interactive science exhibits, an indoor ropes course, laser tag, and a 6D motion ride. Blends education and entertainment — kids love it, adults get sucked in too.

Ripley's Believe It or Not

Ripley's Believe It or Not has 16 themed galleries, over 500 artifacts, optical illusions, a mirror maze, and a laser race. One of the most visited indoor attractions in PCB — and genuinely entertaining for all ages.

Axe Throwing — Pier Park

Axe Throwing Pier Park brings competitive edge to a rainy afternoon. Groups, date nights, and team outings all work well here. No experience needed — staff walks you through everything.

Emerald Coast Mirror Maze & Laser Craze

Four attractions in one at Pier Park — mirror maze, laser craze, and more. Good for families and groups looking for something different after dinner at Pier Park.

Where to Eat in Panama City Beach

Captain Anderson's Restaurant

Captain Anderson's Restaurant — legendary seafood institution at the marina since 1967. A PCB landmark. Order the grouper. Located right next to where Reel Groovy departs so it's an easy stop before or after your trip.

Hook'd Pier Bar & Grill

Hook'd Pier Bar & Grill — casual waterfront dining right on the pier. Good seafood, cold drinks, laid-back atmosphere. Worth a stop for lunch after a morning on the water.

Saltwater Grill

Saltwater Grill — upscale seafood, steaks, and sushi anchored by a stunning 25,000-gallon tropical aquarium. One of the best dinner experiences in PCB. Live piano bar Tuesday through Saturday. Worth dressing up slightly for.

Uncle Ernie's Bayfront Grill

Uncle Ernie's Bayfront Grill — waterfront dining on St. Andrews Bay with some of the best sunset views in the area. Fresh Gulf grouper, casual atmosphere, live music on the upper deck. A local favorite that's been around since the late 1800s building it calls home.

Patches Pub & Grill

Patches Pub & Grill — the local's pub on Thomas Drive near St. Andrews State Park. Award-winning wings, pizza, 31 beers on tap, live music almost every night. Unpretentious, fun, and priced right. Dogs welcome on the outdoor patio.

Schooners

Schooners — famous beachfront restaurant known as "the last local beach club." Live music, fresh seafood, Gulf views. One of the most iconic Panama City Beach dining experiences.

Firefly

Firefly PCB — upscale dining, award-winning steaks and sushi. Not beachfront but worth the trip for a nice dinner. Best romantic dining option in PCB.

Angelo's Steak Pit

Angelo's Steak Pit — the PCB steakhouse institution. Hand-cut steaks and barbecue ribs grilled over an open pit, USDA choice cuts, and a sprawling ranch-style building on Front Beach Road that you can't miss. Been feeding locals and visitors for decades. If you want a proper steak in Panama City Beach, this is the one. 💜

Hook and Cook — Bring Your Catch

Several Panama City Beach restaurants will cook your fresh catch from a morning fishing trip to order — straight from the Gulf to your plate the same day. See our complete hook and cook guide for which restaurants participate and what to expect.

Evening & Nightlife in Panama City Beach

PCB doesn't slow down when the sun goes down. Whether you want something laid-back and romantic or loud and social, there's an option for every kind of evening.

Sunset Cruises

The best way to end a day in Panama City Beach is on the water. Our sunset cruise Panama City Beach runs 2 hours on the Reel GRooV — a 43-foot vessel with a shaded deck, A/C cabin, Bluetooth sound system, and room for up to 18 passengers. BYOB, private, and completely yours for the evening. The Gulf of America at golden hour is something you don't forget. Perfect for couples, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, or just a beautiful end to a beach day. Starting at $450.

Booze Cruise Panama City Beach

If the vibe is more party than peaceful, our booze cruise Panama City Beach delivers. Private boat, your group, your playlist, BYOB — 2 to 3 hours on the Gulf with Captain Gary and crew. The Reel GRooV has the space, the sound system, and the crew to make it a night worth remembering. Birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate groups — we've hosted them all. Starting at $450.

If you're looking for something more intimate or a different on-water vibe, Cruisin' Tikis offers BYOB floating tiki bar cruises on the Grand Lagoon — including the fan-favorite Lit on the Lagoon night cruise where the whole tiki glows on the water.

Beach Bonfires & Photography

One of the most memorable things you can do on a PCB evening — a setup bonfire right on the sand with chairs, tiki torches, s'mores, a Bluetooth speaker, and the Gulf as your backdrop. Several city-approved vendors handle everything including permits, setup, and cleanup so you just show up.

It's Lit PCB and Light Me Up Beach Bonfires both partner with professional photographers — so you can combine a bonfire experience with a proper photo session. Sunset light, firelight, the Gulf in the background. Photography add-ons run around $249. Perfect for couples, proposals, bachelorette parties, family vacations, or anyone who wants a photo that doesn't look like every other beach photo.

Worth noting — bonfires in PCB require a city-approved vendor and permit. Don't try to build your own. These companies handle all of that.

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is a full evening out — pirate battles, aerial acrobatics, and a complete dinner included. Popular with families and groups. Book ahead in peak season, it fills up fast.

Live Music & Nightlife

PCB has a genuinely good live music scene concentrated around the beachfront bars. A few worth knowing:

Schooners

Already covered in the dining section — but worth mentioning again here because after dark it becomes one of the best live music spots on the beach. Sunset cannon fires nightly, bands play late, and the Gulf is right there.

Hammerhead Fred's

Beachfront bar with live music and char-grilled oysters. Stays open late.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

Live country music, energetic crowd, a Nashville staple now on the Gulf Coast.

Coyote Ugly Saloon

Dancing bartenders, loud and rowdy, exactly what you'd expect.

Ms. Newby's

Lively beachfront bar with live music and a tropical, laid-back island vibe.

Pier Park Evening Entertainment

After dinner, Pier Park comes alive — live concerts, seasonal events, the PCB Wheel lit up at night, Dave & Buster's, and the Grand IMAX Theatre. A full evening without leaving one spot.

Panama City Beach Activities by Type

For families: Shell Island, Shipwreck Island Waterpark, dolphin tours, bay fishing, pirate cruise, Rock It Lanes, St. Andrews State Park.

For couples: Sunset cruise, private dolphin tour, dinner at Firefly or Captain Anderson's, helicopter tour, beach bonfire.

For serious anglers: Deep sea fishing PCB FL on the Reel GRooV — 4 to 12 hours, federal water permits, up to 18 passengers.

For first-timers: Start with the beach, do a dolphin tour or sunset cruise, try the fishing, eat at Captain Anderson's.

For groups: Booze cruise, offshore fishing charter, pirate ship Panama City Beach, Sea Screamer PCB.

Things to Do Near Panama City Beach

Day trips from PCB worth making.

Destin, Florida

45 minutes west. One of the most beautiful stretches of water on the entire Gulf Coast — some argue the water color here rivals anything in the Caribbean. HarborWalk Village has waterfront dining, boat tours, and shopping. Crab Island is a sandbar destination where boats anchor up and people float and socialize. Henderson Beach State Park is worth the stop for a quieter beach experience. If you're already in PCB for a week, a day in Destin is an easy and worthwhile detour.

30A

35 minutes west. A completely different energy from PCB — slower, quieter, more intentional. The highway winds through a string of charming beach towns including Seaside (the town famously used in The Truman Show), Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and Watercolor. Boutique shops, excellent restaurants, and some of the most architecturally interesting beach homes in Florida. Great for a scenic afternoon drive, lunch, and walking around. Grayton Beach State Park sits right on 30A and is consistently ranked one of America's best beaches.

Apalachicola

90 minutes east. One of Florida's last truly unhurried small towns. Historic downtown with locally owned shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The oysters here — harvested from Apalachicola Bay — are legendary and unlike anything you'll find anywhere else. Slower pace, genuine character, and a side of Florida that tourism hasn't touched much. Worth the drive if you want something completely different from the beach scene.

Econfina Creek

30 minutes north. One of the most beautiful natural spring systems in the Florida Panhandle — crystal clear water, ancient cypress trees, and some of the best tubing and kayaking in the state. The creek winds through old-growth forest and feels about as far from the tourist strip as you can get in under an hour. Genuinely underrated and worth the drive, especially in summer when the spring water stays a refreshing 68 degrees regardless of the heat.

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

About an hour east near Port St. Joe. A narrow peninsula jutting into the Gulf with undeveloped beaches on both sides — Gulf on one side, St. Joseph Bay on the other. Consistently ranked one of the top beaches in the country. Excellent shelling, kayaking in the bay, and some of the best stargazing in Florida at night due to minimal light pollution. If Shell Island feels too crowded, this is the answer.

Panama City — Historic St. Andrews

15 minutes away and often overlooked. The St. Andrews neighborhood in Panama City proper has a walkable waterfront district with locally owned restaurants, bars, and shops. Uncle Ernie's is here. The Farmers Market runs on weekends. A genuine neighborhood feel that's completely different from the beach strip — and close enough to be an easy evening out.

Frequently Asked Questions: Panama City Beach, Florida

What are the best things to do in Panama City Beach?

The beach itself, a fishing charter or dolphin tour on the Gulf, Shell Island, Pier Park, St. Andrews State Park, and a sunset cruise. Those six cover most of what makes PCB worth visiting. Start with the water.

What is Panama City Beach known for?

27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, emerald-green water, world-class deep sea fishing, family-friendly attractions, and one of the Gulf Coast's most active boat tour scenes. Spring break historically, but increasingly year-round as a family and fishing destination.

What is there to do in Panama City Beach besides the beach?

Fishing trips in Panama City Florida, dolphin tours, sunset cruises, Shell Island excursions, Pier Park, St. Andrews State Park, waterparks, golf, nightlife, and more. PCB has a surprising amount of depth beyond the sand.

Are dolphin tours in Panama City Beach worth it?

Yes — PCB waters have a healthy resident dolphin population and sightings are nearly guaranteed. A private dolphin cruise Panama City Beach is one of the most universally enjoyed experiences in the area. Kids and adults both love it.

What boat rides are available in Panama City Beach FL?

Fishing charters (inshore, nearshore, and offshore), dolphin tours, sunset cruises, booze cruises, Sea Screamer speedboat rides, Sea Dragon pirate cruise, Shell Island shuttles, and burial at sea services. Most depart from Captain Anderson's Marina.

Is Captain Anderson's Marina the main departure point for boat tours?

Yes — Captain Anderson's Marina at 5550 N Lagoon Drive is the hub for most water-based activities in PCB, including all Reel Groovy departures.

What's the difference between the Sea Screamer and a private charter?

The Sea Screamer is a large shared speedboat — fun, fast, and loud. A private charter like Reel Groovy is your group only, at your pace, with a captain focused entirely on your experience. Different products for different goals.

What is the best time of year to visit Panama City Beach?

April–May and September–October for best weather, smaller crowds, and reasonable rates. Summer is peak season — great fishing and beach weather but busy and priced accordingly. Winter is mild and uncrowded.

Ready to Get on the Water?

If there's one thing we'd tell every visitor to Panama City Beach — book something on the water. The beach is beautiful from the shore. It's extraordinary from the Gulf.

Whether it's deep sea fishing in Panama City Beach, a dolphin tour, a sunset cruise, or a booze cruise with your group — Reel Groovy Experiences has you covered.

📍 Captain Anderson's Marina · 5550 N Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

📞 (850) 774-9007

🌐 deepseafishingpanamacitybeach.com | reelgroovy.com

Book direct for our lowest rates.