Panama City Beach, Florida
The family guide to Panama City Beach, from moms who live the beach life
Where to eat, which beach to pick, how golf carts work and what to do when it rains. These are the honest local tips we give our own guests.
The guides
Beaches
The Best Beaches for Families
Where to set up, where to park, and which spot has calm water for little swimmers.
Read the guide →
Restaurants
Where to Eat with Kids
Breakfast spots, sunset dinners and casual beach bars that are fine with sandy toes.
Read the guide →
Things to Do
Things to Do with Kids (Rain or Shine)
Dolphins, water parks, mini golf and the indoor backups for a stormy afternoon.
Read the guide →
Golf Carts
Golf Cart Rentals & the Rules
Who rents street-legal carts, what you need to bring, and which roads are off-limits.
Read the guide →
Insider Tips
Local Tips Every Mom Should Know
Beach flags, crowd timing, what to pack and the small things that make the week easier.
Read the guide →Free printable · 10 pages
Get the free PCB Family Trip Planner
Packing lists for the beach and the house, a day-by-day itinerary planner, the beach flag cheat sheet, our restaurant short list and rainy-day backups. Print it, stick it on the fridge, done.
Your first-time PCB cheat sheet
Pick the right end of the beach
The east end (Thomas Drive and the Grand Lagoon) is quieter and close to St. Andrews State Park. The middle has Pier Park and the City Pier. The west end is more residential and near 30A.
Check the flags every morning
Red means stay out above your knees, and double red means the water is closed. Learn the flag colors →
Book these early
Golf carts, dolphin cruises and summer rentals all sell out. How golf carts work →
Have a rainy-day plan
Summer storms pass quickly, but it's good to know your indoor backups. See the list →