Family Vacation Panama City Beach Florida: Your Guide to Unforgettable Fun

With its sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and endless family-friendly attractions, it’s a slice of paradise for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a laid-back beach vibe, this Panama City Beach family trip guide has you covered.

Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Resorts Panama City Beach

First things first, finding a place to stay. Panama City Beach is home to a variety of family-friendly resorts that cater to both kids and parents. Some top picks include:

Splash Resort: The name says it all. Splash Resort is the ultimate playground for kids, with water slides, splash pads, and a lazy river. Parents will appreciate the spacious condos with full kitchens, perfect for easy family meals.

Holiday Inn Resort: A classic choice with a kid-friendly vibe. Think poolside movies, live entertainment, and a dedicated splash area for the little ones. Bonus: This hotel is beachfront, so you’re steps away from the sand.

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort: For families who love a mix of activities, Edgewater offers beachfront villas, a golf course, and lagoon pools. The on-site dining options make it easy to grab a bite without leaving the property.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach Resort: Located just steps from the beach, this resort offers spacious suites, a pool, and complimentary breakfast to start your day right.

Radisson Hotel Panama City Beach – Oceanfront: This hotel boasts stunning ocean views, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the beach.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach Beachfront: Conveniently located near Shipwreck Island Waterpark, this modern hotel features beachfront rooms, a pool, and a complimentary breakfast.

Pro Tip: Book early to snag the best deals and affordable family vacations Florida has to offer. Resorts often offer special packages during off-peak seasons.

Best Family Activities Panama City Beach

You’re in for a treat because Panama City Beach is packed with activities that will make your family’s itinerary unforgettable. Here are some must-dos:

Explore Gulf World Marine Park

15412 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

One of the top Panama City Beach family-friendly attractions, Gulf World lets your kids get up close with dolphins, stingrays, and sea lions. The interactive shows are a hit, and you can even book a swim with the dolphins for an extra special memory.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

12201 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Looking for things to do with kids in Panama City Beach that’ll keep them cool? Shipwreck Island is a family favorite. With wave pools, lazy rivers, and slides for all ages, it’s the ideal spot for an action-packed day.

WonderWorks

9910 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

If the Florida sun gets too intense, head indoors to WonderWorks, an interactive science center. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, from the astronaut training challenge to the giant bubble lab.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

9907 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

For a quirky and fun outing, visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. The oddities and interactive exhibits are sure to fascinate both kids and adults.

SkyWheel Panama City Beach

15700 L C Hilton Jr Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Take in breathtaking views of the coastline from the SkyWheel, a towering Ferris wheel with enclosed gondolas. It’s a perfect family activity to enjoy together, especially at sunset.

To make the most of your trip, consider using Tripster’s vacation packages to bundle your attraction tickets. It’s a convenient way to save money and streamline your planning.

St. Andrews State Park

4607 State Park Ln, Panama City, FL 32408

Perfect for family beach activities, Panama City Beach’s St. Andrews State Park offers hiking trails, calm swimming spots for kids, and opportunities for snorkeling. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Family Beach Activities Panama City Beach

Let’s not forget the main reason you’re here—the beach! Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of coastline, so there’s plenty of room to spread out. Here are some fun ideas for the family:

• Beach Games: Bring along a frisbee, volleyball, or kite for some classic beachside fun.
• Sandcastle Building: Pack small buckets and shovels to keep the kids entertained for hours.
• Banana Boat Rides: Hop on a thrilling banana boat ride that’ll have the whole family laughing.
• Shell Collecting: Early mornings are perfect for hunting unique shells—a free and relaxing activity.

Where to Eat: Kid-Friendly Restaurants Panama City Beach

After all that fun, your family is going to need fuel. Luckily, Panama City Beach offers plenty of kid-friendly dining options that adults will enjoy too. Here are some top picks:

Pineapple Willy’s: Famous for its beachfront location and mouthwatering ribs, this spot is perfect for a casual family meal. Kids will love the frozen drinks (non-alcoholic, of course) served in fun souvenir cups.

The Shrimp Basket: A laid-back spot with seafood favorites like fried shrimp and fish tacos. The kids’ menu includes chicken tenders and fries—a win for picky eaters.

Related Post: Seafood Restaurants in Panama City Beach

Diego’s Burrito Factory: Build-your-own burritos and nachos make this spot a hit with kids and adults. The outdoor seating area is great for families who need a little extra space.

Thomas Donut & Snack Shop: Start your day with fresh donuts and coffee. They also serve burgers and hot dogs, making it a convenient option for a quick bite.

Tips for an Affordable Family Vacation in Florida

Vacations don’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips for your Panama City Beach family vacation:

• Visit During Off-Peak Seasons: Spring and fall offer lower rates on accommodations and fewer crowds.
• Pack Your Own Snacks: Stock up on groceries and pack snacks for beach days to save money on dining out.
• Look for Free Activities: From beachcombing to exploring Pier Park, there are plenty of free or low-cost options for family fun.
• Use Coupons: Check Tripster for discounts on attractions and lodging.

Plan Your Perfect Panama City Beach Family Vacation

Make planning easier and more budget-friendly by checking out Tripster for discount tickets, vacation packages, and hotel deals.

With Tripster, you can bundle your accommodations and activities to save big while ensuring your family has the best experience possible. Panama City Beach is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable family vacation.

With a mix of relaxing beach days, thrilling attractions, and kid-friendly restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Now, grab those flip-flops and start planning your family vacation Panama City Beach Florida. Your sun-soaked adventure awaits!