Sunset Dining Panama City Beach FL: 11 Places to Savor the Magic Hour

Panama City Beach isn’t just about sugar-white sands and emerald waters; it’s a haven for food lovers seeking panoramic sunset views with their meals. From romantic dinner spots to family-friendly oceanfront dining, this list has it all. Let’s dive into the best sunset restaurants Panama City Beach has to offer!

1. Runaway Island

14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

When it comes to sunset dining experiences in Panama City Beach, Runaway Island is a crowd favorite. This two-story beachfront restaurant offers incredible views of the Gulf, best enjoyed with a plate of their famous Gulf shrimp.

Whether you’re seated on the outdoor deck or inside by the massive windows, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the horizon. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic sunset dining Panama City Beach evening or a casual outing with friends.

2. The Grand Marlin of Panama City Beach

5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

For upscale vibes and top-notch cuisine, The Grand Marlin is a must-visit for Panama City Beach waterfront dining. With a menu that boasts fresh, locally sourced seafood, their Parmesan-crusted Grouper is a game changer.

Pair it with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and enjoy the sunset over the marina. This spot blends elegance with natural beauty, making it a top choice for romantic dinner spots Panama City Beach.

3. Schooners

5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

Known as the “Last Local Beach Club,” Schooners is an iconic spot for sunset dining Panama City Beach, FL. This lively beachfront restaurant offers laid-back vibes, live music, and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.

Grab their Blackened Mahi sandwich and a tropical cocktail to toast to the day’s end. It’s no wonder Schooners is a favorite for oceanfront dining Panama City Beach lovers.

4. Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant

15201 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

If a tiki hut-style restaurant with sunset views sounds like your dream, Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant delivers. Famous for its breezy, casual vibe, this is one of the best sunset restaurants Panama City Beach offers for a fun night out. Their tropical drinks are the perfect companion to dishes like the Coconut Shrimp or Grilled Grouper.

Bonus: Sharky’s expansive deck puts you front and center for the golden hour magic.

5. Pineapple Willy’s

9875 S Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

For sunset dining experiences Panama City Beach visitors rave about, Pineapple Willy’s is a can’t-miss. This laid-back hotspot is perfect for families and casual diners looking for a classic PCB experience.

The signature ribs paired with their famous frozen drinks make for a delicious combo, especially when enjoyed on their pier overlooking the Gulf. Sunset and BBQ? Yes, please!

6. Firefly

535 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Looking for something a little more intimate? Firefly’s cozy yet elegant atmosphere makes it one of the most romantic dinner spots Panama City Beach has to offer.

While it’s not directly oceanfront, its menu and ambiance make up for it in spades. Enjoy dishes like Lobster Thermidor while soaking in the twilight hues through their softly lit interiors. Perfect for date night or special occasions!

7. Harpoon Harry’s

12627 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

For a fun and casual Panama City Beach dinner with a view, Harpoon Harry’s hits the mark. This beachfront spot is all about good food and good vibes.

Order a plate of their fresh Grouper Fingers or the Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms and settle in for one of the best restaurants with sunset views Panama City Beach has to offer. Their outdoor seating area is just steps from the sand, making it an unbeatable spot for soaking in the beauty of the Gulf.

8. Barefoot On The Beach Bar & Grill

11073 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Barefoot On The Beach is a hidden gem for sunset dining Panama City Beach, FL enthusiasts. This casual, open-air spot offers oceanfront dining Panama City Beach fans adore.

Their Grouper Tacos and signature cocktails are perfect for enjoying while the sun dips below the horizon. It’s laid-back, affordable, and oh-so picturesque.

9. Captain Anderson’s Restaurant

5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

For a refined take on Panama City Beach waterfront dining, Captain Anderson’s Restaurant is a long-standing favorite. The dockside views make it an ideal spot for sunset dining experiences Panama City Beach visitors won’t forget.

Their Greek-style Grouper is legendary, and the service is always impeccable. It’s perfect for those looking to blend fine dining with stunning views.

10. Pelican’s Bar & Grill

4114 Jan Cooley Dr, Panama City, FL 32408

Located at the edge of the Bluegreen’s Bayside Resort and Spa, Pelican’s is literally perched over the water. This makes it one of the most unique restaurants with sunset views Panama City Beach has to offer.

You can’t go wrong with their Fish Tacos and a refreshing Mai Tai. Plus, the vibe here is unbeatable for romantic sunset dining Panama City Beach evenings or chill hangouts.

11. Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill

16201 Front Beach Rd Ste C, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill is a laid-back eatery with a front-row seat to the Gulf. This spot is a favorite for Panama City Beach dinner with a view, offering a mix of comfort food and seafood delights.

Their Smoked Tuna Dip and Fish & Chips are local staples. With outdoor seating that brings you closer to the waves, it’s an ideal spot to relax and watch the sun set in a blaze of colors.

Insider Tips for Sunset Dining in PCB

Timing Is Everything: Aim to arrive about 45 minutes before sunset to snag the best seating and enjoy the full spectacle.

Reservations: Many of the best sunset restaurants Panama City Beach are first-come, first-served, so call ahead or arrive early to avoid the rush.

Dress Code: Most spots are casual, but places like Firefly and The Grand Marlin lean upscale, so dress accordingly.

Try Local Dishes: Gulf seafood is the star of the show here. Don’t miss out on specialties like Grouper, Snapper, or Shrimp dishes.

From upscale romantic dinner spots to lively oceanfront dining Panama City Beach favorites, there’s no shortage of options for enjoying a Panama City Beach dinner with a view.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails at Sharky’s or savoring fine dining at Captain Anderson’s, the sunsets in Panama City Beach are sure to leave you spellbound.

Grab your appetite and your camera — it’s time to dine with a view!