Family Vacation Panama City Beach Florida: Your Guide to Unforgettable Fun
Planning a family vacation can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Lucky for you, Panama City Beach, Florida, ticks all the boxes for a memorable getaway.
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 at 17739 Front Beach Rd 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, located at 11127 Front Beach Rd. Think poolside movies, live entertainment, and a dedicated splash area for the little ones. This hotel is also beachfront, so you’re steps away from the sand.
Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort: For families who love a mix of activities, Edgewater at 11212 Front Beach Rd 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 at 16006 Front Beach Rd, this resort offers spacious suites, a pool, and complimentary breakfast to start your day right.
Radisson Hotel Panama City Beach – Oceanfront: This hotel at 15325 Front Beach Rd boasts stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach. Family-friendly amenities include a heated outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, the Barefoot Hideaway Grill, which serves American cuisine in a casual beachfront setting.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach Beachfront: Conveniently located at 12513 Front Beach Rd 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.
For families visiting with young children, the Tadpole Hole and The Zoom Flume offer gentle slides and splash areas designed specifically for smaller kids, ensuring they have a safe and fun experience. Parents with older children can head to the Tree Top Drop or Pirate’s Plunge, which provide high-speed thrills for more adventurous visitors. Since lines for popular attractions can get long, arriving right at park opening is the best way to enjoy the rides before the crowds build up.
Related Post: Indoor Activities in Panama City Beach
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.
Kids will love exploring the Mirror Maze and Laser Race, which add an exciting challenge to the visit. Since some exhibits may be spooky or unusual, parents should gauge their child’s comfort level before entering certain sections, especially the darker or more mysterious displays. Since the museum is fully indoors, it’s also a great rainy-day activity or a way to escape the afternoon heat.
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. Head to Rick Seltzer Park, located at 7419 Thomas Drive, which has designated beach access, picnic tables, and plenty of open space for tossing a frisbee, playing paddleball, or setting up a family-friendly volleyball match. Bringing along a kite is also a great idea, especially in the afternoons when the Gulf breeze makes for perfect flying conditions.
- Sandcastle Building: Pack small buckets and shovels to keep the kids entertained for hours. For extra fun, consider bringing shells or seaweed to decorate sand creations.
- Banana Boat Rides: For an exciting banana boat ride, visit Adventures at Sea, located at 5709 N Lagoon Drive, where families can book thrilling rides along the coastline. Most banana boat tours last around 15 minutes and are suitable for kids ages 5 and up, provided they wear a life jacket. These high-speed rides are an exhilarating way to enjoy the Gulf while laughing and splashing together as a family.
- Shell Collecting: For a more relaxing experience, shell collecting is best done early in the morning at Camp Helen State Park, Shell Island, or the west end of Panama City Beach, where the tides leave behind unique and colorful shells. Bringing a mesh bag or small container makes it easy for kids to store their finds. Parents should remind children to only collect empty shells, as live ones should be left in their natural habitat.
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 seafood and 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. Since this spot gets busy during peak hours, arriving before 6 PM helps avoid long wait times, and if there’s a wait, the sandy beach area in front of the restaurant is perfect for kids to play while waiting for a table.
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. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere means families won’t have to worry about keeping kids too quiet, and the quick service makes it an easy choice for lunch or an early dinner.
Diego’s Burrito Factory: Build-your-own burritos and nachos make this spot‘s menu a hit with kids and adults. The outdoor seating area provides extra space for strollers or active little ones, and since orders are prepared quickly, it’s a convenient stop for families on the go.
Thomas Donut & Snack Shop: Start your day right here with fresh donuts and coffee. This family-owned shop is a local favorite, with a huge variety of donut flavors, including fun options like Fruity Pebbles and Maple Bacon. 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. Hotel rates tend to drop after spring break and before the busy summer months, making it a great time for families to book beachfront stays at a lower price. Attractions like Shipwreck Island Waterpark and Gulf World Marine Park are also less crowded, giving kids more room to explore.
- Pack Your Own Snacks: Stock up on groceries and pack snacks for beach days to save money on dining out. Grocery stores like Publix and Walmart offer fresh produce, sandwiches, and easy-to-pack snacks that are perfect for a beach picnic at St. Andrews State Park. Many hotels and vacation rentals also come with kitchenettes, allowing families to cook a few meals instead of dining out for every meal.
- Look for Free Activities: From beachcombing to exploring Pier Park, there are plenty of free or low-cost options for family fun. The Russell-Fields Pier is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset without spending a dime, while early morning shell collecting at Camp Helen State Park can be a fun and free adventure for kids.
- Save More With Coupons: We offer discounts on hotels, attractions, and vacation packages!
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!
PS: These are affiliate products, so if you choose to buy, Tripster might earn a commission
Panama City Beach Family Vacation FAQs
When not to go to Panama City Beach?
The busiest time to avoid Panama City Beach is during March and April, when spring breakers flock to the area, leading to larger crowds and higher hotel rates. For a more relaxed family-friendly experience, visiting in late spring, summer, or early fall offers warm weather and plenty of activities without the party scene.
Can I swim at Panama City Beach?
Yes, you can swim at Panama City Beach, as its clear Gulf waters are perfect for wading, snorkeling, and cooling off on a hot day. This 27-mile long beach offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, making it a great destination for water lovers.
