Panama City Beach follows the Gulf shore west of Panama City. Pier Park and Russell-Fields Pier are the center of the beachfront. At the east end, Thomas Drive and Grand Lagoon are closer to St. Andrews State Park and the Shell Island boats.
Near Pier Park, the Russell-Fields Pier crosses the sand to the Gulf. After the beach, the outdoor shops and restaurants are right there for the evening. Beachfront and inland hotels look close on a map, but the inland ones mean crossing Front Beach Road, so check the route before booking.
The east end centers on Thomas Drive and Grand Lagoon. Marinas run trips toward Shell Island, and St. Andrews State Park has Gulf and lagoon shoreline. Shell Island is undeveloped and reached by boat, so bring everything you need and check the operator’s schedule.
West of Pier Park, Laguna Beach and the Camp Helen State Park side of town have less shopping. Camp Helen borders Lake Powell and the Gulf. Panama City Beach Conservation Park has walking and biking trails inland. From most hotels, you’ll need a car for these western and inland stops.
Summer is hot, humid and wetter. Spring and fall are milder, good for park walks as well as the beach. Check the beach warning flags before you go in the Gulf: double red means the water is closed. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is inland, and rental cars, taxis, rideshares and shuttles run from there to the hotels.