Find Your Kind of Emerald Coast Day
Beyond Your Front Door
Make Room for More Than the Beach
Out on the Water
A Different View of the Coast
Escape to Shell Island
Take a boat trip to Shell Island for an afternoon of beach walks, swimming or snorkeling when conditions allow. This undeveloped island offers a change of pace from the main beach. Pack drinking water, food and sun protection, and bring everything back with you.
Boat access to undeveloped beaches
Swimming and snorkeling opportunities
A day away from the main beach
Paddle or pick up the pace
Explore the coast by kayak or paddleboard, or choose a jet-ski outing for a more energetic adventure. Local operators offer rentals and guided experiences around Panama City Beach's waterways. Choose an outing that suits your group's experience, and check age requirements and conditions before booking.
Kayak and paddleboard outings
Jet-ski rentals and guided tours
Options around the bay and lagoon
Look for dolphins at sunset
End the day on the water with a sunset dolphin-watching cruise. Sea Screamer offers coastal sightseeing around Shell Island and St. Andrews Bay, combining evening views with the chance to spot wild dolphins. Bring your camera, enjoy the scenery and let the wildlife set its own schedule.
Sunset sightseeing by boat
Opportunities to spot wild dolphins
Views of the coast and bay
Explore a Little Further
Beach Days With Something Extra
Spend a day at St. Andrews
Make St. Andrews State Park your base for a day of beach time and outdoor exploring. Swim or snorkel when conditions allow, take a nature walk, or settle in for a picnic. It's a flexible outing for a group that doesn't all want to do the same thing.
Beach access and snorkeling opportunities
Nature trails and wildlife watching
Picnic areas for a leisurely lunch
Slow down at Camp Helen
Discover another side of the coast at Camp Helen State Park, where the Gulf meets the landscape around Lake Powell. Follow nature trails, watch for birds and make time for a beach walk. It's an inviting choice for a quieter outing with scenery at the center.
Nature trails and birdwatching
Beachcombing along the Gulf
The coastal setting of Lake Powell
Make time for a fishing trip
Try a bay-fishing charter or head into the Gulf for a deep-sea outing. Capt. Anderson's Marina offers fishing trips and a fleet of independently operated charters. Talk with the captain about your group's experience, preferred trip length and comfort on the water before choosing your adventure.
Inshore and Gulf fishing options
Shared trips or private charters
Outings suited to your group's experience
Always check beach warning flags before entering the Gulf; double red flags mean the water is closed.
Something for Everyone
Keep the Good Times Going on Dry Land
Challenge the family at Coconut Creek
Trade the beach towel for a putter at Coconut Creek Family Fun Park. Play mini golf among tropical landscaping and waterfalls, then test your sense of direction in the Gran Maze. Whether you're keeping score or simply playing for fun, it's an easy way to spend time together.
Themed mini-golf courses
The walk-through Gran Maze
A little friendly competition
Turn a rainy day into a discovery day
Head inside WonderWorks for hands-on exhibits that bring science and play together. Explore interactive challenges, then check out attractions such as laser tag and the indoor ropes course. It's a useful alternative when the weather changes or your group wants a break from the sun.
Interactive science exhibits
Indoor laser tag
A glow-in-the-dark ropes course
Leave an afternoon open for Pier Park
Browse the shops, choose somewhere to eat and let the afternoon unfold at Pier Park. With shopping, restaurants and entertainment, including The Grand Theatre with IMAX, it's a flexible stop for families or couples who want a change of scene without planning a full-day excursion.
Shops to browse at your own pace
Restaurants for lunch or dinner
Cinema and entertainment options
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Check current opening hours, reservations, age requirements and weather conditions directly with each attraction or operator. Water activities depend on conditions, and wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Shell Island has no restrooms or food services, so prepare before leaving the mainland.
Official Resources
Check these for the most updated information.
