Tips for First-Time Visitors to Panama City Beach
Over the years, Panama City Beach has become a prime vacation destination for hundreds of families. From stunning sandy beaches to trendy shopping spots, kid-friendly adventures, and a never-ending feast of delicious seafood, it’s a vacation paradise. However, we get that with so many options to choose from, planning your trip as first-time visitors can be a lot of work.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’re here to give you the ups and downs of visiting the Emerald Coast, from all the good to even some bad. Let’s get you and your family ready for your first visit to Panama City Beach!
Visitors From All Over
It’s all about the time of year you come to visit Panama City Beach. Being a beach town, there are definitely obvious on-and-off seasons. No matter when you choose to go, there are fantastic options available for all types of vacationers. It’s worth considering the crowd you might encounter by aligning your trip with the season. For instance, during spring break, the energy is high with college students seeking a break from their studies. In the summer, families with young children tend to dominate the scene. As the early fall rolls in and children head back to school, the atmosphere becomes more serene. If you’re planning your visit, remember to ask yourself what kind of experience you want to have. That can help you decide when to plan your vacation.
Florida Weather
Just like anywhere else on the south coast, weather conditions can be unpredictable almost all year round. Hurricane season begins in June and can stretch until November. However, the heaviest rainfall tends to happen towards the end of the summer in August. While this shouldn’t deter you from coming to visit completely, it is something to consider when packing.
Unexpectedly, winter can be a great time to visit PCB if you’re looking for a less crowded experience! While swimming may come off your list, there are still plenty of indoor activities, and the temperature is still rather warm compared to up north. Many visitors also choose to visit in the fall, allowing for cooler temperatures, and the end of the rainy season.
Get Your Wheels
Sure, in this day and age, getting around without a car is possible, but it will definitely limit you. Many of Panama City’s famous beaches are almost a half-hour away from the main action. As first-time visitors, you’re going to want to see as much as you can, right? A car allows you to travel as you please, and really explore everything Florida has to offer! However, if you’re looking for a single destination experience, Pier Park, home of the Sky Wheel, is a great spot to experience the most of the fun!
Be Prepared for Traffic
While a car may expand the horizon of your trip, it feels safe to tell you to prepare for traffic. It is Florida after all, and depending on what time of day you’re traveling, you can hit bumper-to-bumper traffic on major highways.
The best way to avoid this goes back to when you decide to visit. Depending on the time of year, traffic tends to lighten up. However, be prepared for extra people and extra cars around the spring and summertime.
Beach Tips
Florida beaches are much different than the ones you may find on the Jersey Shore or New York’s Jone’s Beach. While most of our beaches are free to access, foot traffic is going to play a major role in parking and finding that sweet spot on the sands. Be sure to get there early if you plan on spending the day. That way you can snag one of the good parking spots! Also, it’s important to remember that the south brings moisture – so maybe don’t forget to pack that bug spray.
You’ll also notice on your visit that all beaches display warning flags. Keep an eye out for these important flags before you jump in the water. The ultimate goal is to see a green flag waving, which means conditions are calm and perfect for water fun. When you spot a yellow flag, it’s a sign that water activities are still possible, but you should proceed with caution. However, if you come across purple or red flags, it’s time to stay out of the water. Purple means there might be some tricky marine life lurking, while red warns of strong currents. Safety first!
Don’t Be Afraid To Explore
Adventure is out there, you just have to find it! PCB is full of beautiful hidden gems off the beaten path. Sure, you can stay in the hustle and bustle of tourist spots, but the real trip starts off the shore.
Little cozy restaurants and tons of outdoor activities are waiting for you , some even better than right on the beach! While yes, the beach is a beautiful sight, there is plenty more to explore. Take Conservation Park for example. A beautiful park filled with walking trails, natural views, and some much-needed time away from the noise of the tourist spots.
Add Indoor Attractions to Your Itinerary
As first-time visitors, you may not know Florida weather can be unpredictable. Actually, it’s almost guaranteed no matter what time of year you come to visit. So, if you’ve planned your entire trip around the shores, it might be best to rethink your itinerary.
Adding a few indoor activities as backup is never a bad idea. In fact, you’ll find some of the most family fun indoors, like at WonderWorks or the Man in the Sea Museum. Plus, who doesn’t want a nice drink while it’s raining outside? You can even do a little shopping over at Pier Park’s indoor mall. Remember to keep your options open, but we can promise there’s always fun to be had.
First-Time Visitors to Panama City Beach Skywheel
Get ready for the ultimate adventure as first-time visitors in Panama City Beach! With some clever planning and handy travel tips, your trip will be an absolute dream. Remember to pack smart, but be open to spontaneous changes. Some of the most incredible experiences in PCB might come when you least expect them. So, buckle up, embrace the unexpected, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in this beachy paradise! Fun awaits around every corner!
Are you looking to make a day trip to Panama City Beach? Don’t forget to stop by the SkyWheel to see it all from above! You can purchase your tickets online at any time. You can even reserve your VIP Experience with first-class service at new heights. Come experience the height of Panama City Beach attractions at SkyWheel. Question? Give us a call at 850.888.0020