5-Day Adventure in Panama City, Florida on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Panama City, Florida

8:00AM

Breakfast at Econfina River Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring Southern classics like biscuits and gravy.
Walk or bike from your accommodation.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Panama City Marina

Stroll along the marina to enjoy views of the waterfront and possibly some local wildlife.
Bike to the marina.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Downtown Panama City

Wander through downtown, discovering shops and local art displays.
Continue biking through downtown.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at G. Foley's

Grab a local lunch at G. Foley's with budget-friendly sandwiches and seafood options.
Walk to G. Foley's.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Bay County Historical Society

Learn about the local history through exhibits including photographs and artifacts.
Walk to the historical society.
USD5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Frank Brown Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying the peaceful surroundings of this beautiful park.
Bike to Frank Brown Park.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Shrimp Boat

Savor dinner at The Shrimp Boat, known for its fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
Bike to the restaurant.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Beach Fun & Relaxation

Panama City Beach, Florida

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancakery

Indulge in a range of affordable pancakes for a delicious start to your beach day.
Take the local bus to Panama City Beach.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Panama City Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.
Walk to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant

Enjoy beachfront dining with fresh seafood and burgers at great prices.
Walk to Sharky's.
USD12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Russell-Fields Pier

Take a walk down the pier to enjoy the stunning views and maybe spot some local fishermen.
Walk to the pier.
USD3, 1 hour

4:00PM

Snorkeling or Paddleboarding

Rent snorkeling gear or a paddleboard to explore the coastal waters independently.
Rent equipment at a local shop.
USD20, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Salty Sue's

Dine at Salty Sue's and try their famous ribs and local seafood dishes.
Rideshare to the restaurant.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature Adventures

St. Andrews State Park, Florida

8:00AM

Breakfast at local cafe

Fuel up at a nearby café with coffee and fruit bowls before heading to the park.
Uber or carpool to the cafe.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

St. Andrews State Park Entrance

Explore this beautiful park known for its hiking trails and stunning coastline.
Walk into the park.
USD8, 5 hours

2:30PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a packed picnic from a local grocery store at one of the park's picnic areas.
Self-prepared, find a shady spot.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hiking and Wildlife Viewing

Take a leisurely hike and keep an eye out for local wildlife including birds and turtles.
Walk along the designated trails.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Captain Anderson's

Enjoy a fantastic seafood dinner with views of the bay; choose budget-friendly options.
Walk to the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Scenic Beachfront Exploration

Camp Helen State Park, Florida

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bayou Joe's

Savor the homemade breakfast burritos and great coffee at this cozy spot.
Rideshare to Bayou Joe's.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Camp Helen State Park

Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic park, enjoying the lush surroundings.
Walk or bike from the café.
USD4, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Food Truck

Relish cheap and delicious local food at one of the nearby food trucks.
Locate a food truck nearby.
USD8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Sunbathing at the Beach

Relax on the beach with your book or join in beach games with fellow travelers.
Walk to the nearby beach area.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit the M.B. Miller County Pier

Catch beautiful sunset views at the pier, which is a popular local spot.
Walk to Miller County Pier.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Village of Baytowne Wharf

Finish your day with a casual meal at one of the numerous spots in this lively wharf.
Rideshare to Baytowne Wharf.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Panama City, Florida

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Daily Grind

Enjoy a locally roasted coffee and pastries from this charming café.
Walk to The Daily Grind.
USD7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visual Arts Center

Explore the local art scene at the Visual Arts Center, featuring diverse exhibits.
Bike to the center.
USD5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Panama City Center for the Arts

Take in more art and cultural insights featuring local and traveling exhibitions.
Walk to the center.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Olive Branch

Try out downsized lunch priced perfectly for those on a budget with delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Rideshare to the restaurant.
USD12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore St. Andrews Historic District

Wander through this picturesque, historic area filled with shops and some local history.
Bike to St. Andrews.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit a Local Farmers Market

Support the local community while tasting fresh produce and handmade goods.
Walk to the local farmers market.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Red Bar

Wrap your adventure with dinner at the iconic Red Bar, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and budget-friendly seafood.
Rideshare or bike to The Red Bar.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability