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Sun, Sand, and Fun: A Family-Friendly Getaway in Panama City Beach

Viewed by 54 travelers
Day 1 · Fri, Dec 15
Panama City Beach, Florida · Friday, December 15, 2023

Fun Under the Florida Sun

  • St. Andrews State Park (Free entry, parking fee applies · 2-3 hours)
  • Gulf World ($30-40 per person · 3-4 hours)
  • Pier Park (Costs vary based on activities · 3-4 hours)

Morning:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the white sandy beaches of St. Andrews State Park. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and keep an eye out for playful dolphins. Afterward, head to Andy's Flour Power Café & Bakery for a delicious breakfast with options for both kids and adults.

Afternoon:

Embark on a family-friendly marine adventure at Gulf World, where you can marvel at spectacular dolphin shows and get up close and personal with sea lions and exotic birds. Afterward, head to Pier Park for a fun afternoon of shopping and dining at family-friendly restaurants like Dick's Last Resort.

Evening:

Enjoy a delightful evening at Pier Park by strolling along the Russell-Fields Pier, where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. Indulge in a family dinner at Margaritaville, where the kids can enjoy a special menu and live entertainment.

Day 2 · Sat, Dec 16
Panama City Beach, Florida · Saturday, December 16, 2023

Aquatic Adventures and Family Bonding

  • Gulf World Marine Park Interactive Encounter ($50-60 per person · 2-3 hours)
  • Shipwreck Island Waterpark ($35-45 per person · 4-5 hours)
  • Runaway Island Beachfront Restaurant ($20-30 per person · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Kick off the day with a visit to Gulf World Marine Park, where the family can enjoy interactive animal encounters with dolphins and sea lions. Afterward, head to Thomas Donut & Snack Shop for a delightful breakfast with a wide selection of freshly made donuts and snacks.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, where the whole family can enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Indulge in a casual lunch at the waterpark's snack bars or bring a picnic to enjoy under the shade of palm trees.

Evening:

Wrap up the day with a family dinner at Runaway Island Beachfront Restaurant, where you can savor coastal cuisine while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Kids can delight in the dedicated kids' menu.

Day 3 · Sun, Dec 17
Panama City Beach, Florida · Sunday, December 17, 2023

Island Adventures and Family Bonding

  • Shell Island Eco-Tour ($40-50 per person · 3-4 hours)
  • Wild Thang Airboat Tour ($60-70 per person · 2-3 hours)
  • Paradise Adventures Sunset Sailing ($30-40 per person · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Start your day with a visit to Shell Island, accessible only by boat. Enjoy a guided eco-tour to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and unique marine life in their natural habitat. Pack a picnic from Liza's Kitchen and savor it on the pristine beaches of Shell Island.

Afternoon:

Embark on a thrilling airboat tour with Wild Thang Airboat Tours to explore the diverse wildlife of St. Andrew Bay. Watch out for alligators, native birds, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. After the tour, head to The Grand Marlin for a family-friendly lunch by the marina.

Evening:

End your day with a sunset sailing cruise with Paradise Adventures, where the whole family can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline while spotting playful dolphins in the golden hour.

Day 4 · Mon, Dec 18
Panama City Beach, Florida · Monday, December 18, 2023

Exploring Nature and Local Delights

  • Camp Helen State Park (Park entry: $4-6 per vehicle · 2-3 hours)
  • Panama City Beach Conservation Park (Free entry, costs for packed lunch · 2-3 hours)
  • Firefly Restaurant ($30-40 per person · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Begin your day with a visit to Camp Helen State Park, where the family can explore nature trails, spot a variety of bird species, and even take a ranger-guided tour to learn about the park's history and diverse ecosystems.

Afternoon:

Immerse in a cultural afternoon at Panama City Beach Conservation Park, a family-friendly hiking and biking trail. Discover the native flora, fauna, and wetlands while enjoying a packed lunch and picnic at one of the scenic spots along the trails.

Evening:

Indulge in a farewell dinner at Firefly, a family-friendly restaurant with a diverse menu featuring seafood, steaks, and local delicacies. Kids can enjoy a special kids' menu and indulge in homemade desserts.

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