Summer Fridays are in session, and that means it’s time to use your sacred OOOs responsibly—like taking a sunny, never-coming-back-level vacay that’s a hop-skip from anywhere on the east coast.
Specifically, Panama City Beach—the surprising gulf coast haven that caters to families, couples, and, yes, wellness-obsessives looking for a healthy escape.
And we already did all of the dirty (err sandy?) planning work for you. From swimming with dolphins to hitting up a paddle board yoga class (talk about balance), we have every type of activity covered while you’re toes-deep in the panhandle’s signature (and highly Instagrammable) white sand.
Keep scrolling for your own detailed map of all the things to do in Panama City Beach, the surprising destination that needs to be on your radar.
Gulf World Marine Park
Live out your childhood fantasy—or, you know, thrill your own kids—by swimming with dolphins. If you’re up for it, you can also interact with stingrays, sea lions, and other creatures of the sea. Better get that underwater camera ready ASAP.
Zen Garden
If you’re a certified wellness junkie, this one’s for you. At Zen Market, not only will your inner plant lady thrive, but your foodie Insta account will receive a heck of an upgrade. Featuring a juice and smoothie shop, a hair studio, and a music room (all with a side of outdoor patio vibes), you might never leave.
Cobra Adventure Park
Sometimes you just need the classic—and by classic, we mean amusement park. With simulators, roller coasters, go-karts, and an arcade of your childhood dreams, this is the quintessential stop in every beach vacation.
Anderson's Seafood Market
One of the benefits of a seaside getaway: fresh seafood. Hit up this real-deal spot where fish are caught right off the dock at Captain Anderson’s Marina. If you want to catch your own dinner instead, the staff at the market will set you up with bait, ice, and a cooler.
Adventures at Sea
Get your blood and adrenaline pumping with an only-on-vacay experience. Head out on a parasail ride to watch for sea turtles, go on a snorkeling exploration, or saddle up for a wild (but safe!) jet skiing adventure on the gulf.
Serenity Spa and Salon
What’s dreamier than a long day spent at the beach followed by an even longer (and extremely soothing) couple’s massage? You and your partner can choose from a full menu of organic body and skin-care rituals. After, head to the serenity pool for some extra R&R while enjoying the view overlooking St. Andrews bay.
St. Andrews State Park
Explore beyond your beach towel with a trip to St. Andrew’s State Park, where you can see migratory birds, deer, and even some alligators. (Pro tip: Don’t mess with those guys.) Plus, if you’re up for more wilderness time, set up a tent at one of the 176 camp sites that offer electricity, water, tables, and grills.
Paddleboard Yoga
Challenge your friend or SO to take your vinyasa on a paddleboard instead. Don’t worry, the classes are designed for beginners, so you won’t just be thrown into the abyss without a helping hand. In addition to honing your downward facing dog on a board, you can also take surfing lessons, sans yoga—but we can alway work towards that.
In partnership with Panama City Beach
Top photo: Getty/Westend61
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