A Fun Place for your Rvand a whole lot More!
Rewritten by Joseph Garnett, Jr. - From the Archives
June 8, 2015
Now that spring is coming to a close, it’s time to plan your next summer RV destination. One suggestion is Panama City Beach, Fla. The city is convenient for those who only have a short weekend RV trip and also accommodates those who camp in the summer and to snow birds.
Courtesy of Panama City Beach Tourism
Famous for its emerald-kissed white-sand beauty, Panama City Beach, Fla. offers a slow pace with pristine RV parks, laid back mom-and-pop diners and one of the most beautiful Waterfront state parks in Florida. So, when planning your next trip in the comfortable RV you purchased at Lazydays, be sure to consider this wonderful North Florida city.
What to do at Panama City Beach
Hit the Beach – On the southeastern section of the exceptional beachfront from St. Andrews to Laguna Beach, sunsets are very gorgeous. Even the sunrises are incredible.
Pirate Cruise – There’s fun for the entire family as the pirate cruise sets sail aboard the Sea Dragon for a swashbuckling good time for buccaneers of all ages. The ship leaves from N. Lagoon Dr. For reservations, call 850.234.7400.
Panhandle Helicopter Tours – If you like taking in the entire scenic Panama City Beach, then you will enjoy getting a bird’s eye view of the Emerald Coast. The helicopter takes off from 15726 Front Beach Dr. Call 850.230.2080 for reservations.
Panhandle Parasail – Your family can have lots of fun on and above the water in a one-stop shop of parasailing, fishing, sunset cruises, snorkeling and dolphin encounters. Contact the office at 126 Rusty Gans Dr. 850.249.7245.
Island Time Sailing – Watch the sun go down as you enjoy shelling snorkeling and cruising with the Shell Island tours. Visit the Treasure Island Marina at 3605 Thomas Dr. Slip #22 or call 850.234.7377.
Courtesy of Panama City Beach Tourism
Where to go in Panama City Beach
Zoo World – Come to Zoo World for the opportunities of a lifetime. Imagine seeing a tiger up close or scratching a grey wolf behind the ears. Plus, the zoological garden offers more than 200 species of exotic plants and flowers. There are also daily show and a petting zoo called “Gentle Jungle” The zoo is located at 9008 Front Beach Rd. in Panama City Beach.
Gulf World Marine Park - If you like shows, especially those put on by sea creatures, you will enjoy the shows at Gulf World Marine Park. The park allows swimming with the dolphins. You’ll need to call for a reservation, as this is a popular thing to do. There are other interesting creatures to visit, like alligators, sharks, penguins, stingrays and sea turtles. For more information call 850.234.5271.
Local Wineries – Enjoy some good libations and savor the atmosphere while watching a beautiful sunset at these two remarkable wineries nearby.
- Sea Breeze Winery - Just hop in your Winnebago or other motor home and drive about 35 miles north of Panama City Beach, the Kyotee Vineyards in Bruce, Fla., supplies the grapes for Sea Breeze Winery. So, you are truly drinking local. The winery is located at 13201 Hutchison Blvd.
- Panama City Beach Winery hosts a large collection of fruity-tasting wines. The Hurricane Sangria is one of the local favorites. The winery is located at 8730 Thomas Dr. Suite 1103B.
Where to eat on Panama City Beach
Looking for a great meal with a terrific view, there are countless places. Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar is famous for good food and live music. If you visit this beachfront party spot, try the island grouper topped with homemade pineapple sauce. Marco’s Gulf Pizza has no surprises on the menu. It simply offers great pizza and pasta. Everything is homemade at Liza’s Kitchen. On the weekend, the real French toast is the specialty. The HogNose Snapper offers robust and delicious portions of amazing food. It’s even kid-friendly with a chalkboard table. There is nothing like casual fine dining like at Firefly. The restaurant offers fresh fish, exotics and seasonal veggies. The menu u can be a bit pricey, but early birds (before 6 p.m.) can get a break on dinner rates.
Courtesy of Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort
Where to Stay
Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort provides a beautiful and comfortable home base for your RV purchased from Lazydays as you take in the sights and sounds of Panama City Beach, Fla. The staff is friendly and the neighbors are welcoming. Here are some features of the site.
- Water, sewer and electric are on full hookups.
- Cable TV and Wi-Fi
- Even big rigs have room with pull-through sites.
- Lakefront sites
- Along with a pool, the trees provide plenty of shade.
- The site is both family and pet friendly.
Reservations can be taken by phone at 800.232.2478.
A three-minute walk to the beach is all it takes from the Panama City Beach RV Resort. This spacious park is laid out well with plenty of room between neighbors. Across the street is a Patches Pub & Eatery with live music on the weekends. Here are some of the features of the RV resort.
- Water, sewer and electric are on full hookups.
- Cable TV and Wi-Fi
- Pull-through sites for big rigs.
- Pool access
- The site is both family and pet friendly.
Reservations can be taken by phone at 859.249.7352.
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