As things are slowly going back to normal, such as restaurants allowing indoor dining at 25% capacity and beaches reopening to the public, it’s important that we continue to social distance for our safety and the safety of others. What’s the best way to still have fun while continuing to follow the social distancing guidelines while in Panama City Beach?
Here are 10 of our favorite activities to enjoy while keeping your distance:
1. Walking on the beach
This one’s a given. “The World’s Most Beautiful Beaches”…You know this is our number one. With a shoreline of 9 miles fronting the Gulf of Mexico, just pick a spot with public parking like Rick Seltzer State Park or Pier Park and hit the sand.
2. Yoga (or other exercise) on the beach
Grab your mat or running shoes and pick a quiet beach to energize your body. We like the west end accesses like Beach Access 77 for our exercise routines. With minimal condos and smooth white sand, you’ll feel refreshed and healthy after your visit.
3. Visit St. Andrews State Park
With a white sand beach, clear water, and plenty of natural beauty to enjoy, St. Andrew’s State Park is a must-visit even during a pandemic. St. Andrews State Park is open for day-use activities. Restroom availability may be limited, all other park facilities are closed. Visitors are expected to maintain distances of at least six feet apart and limit group size to ten or fewer people.
4. Take the scenic route
Putting on your favorite tunes and enjoying the view can be a great way to disconnect. You can drive from St. Andrews State park at the end of Thomas Drive, to Front Beach Road and hit the 30A highway all on the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico. Stop along the way for lunch at a new local spot and catch the sunset at the beach on your way back.
5. Do a little shopping
Shops are slowly opening around the city. So if you’re looking for a new suit or need some shades for a beach day, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at all the local shops Panama City Beach has to offer.
6. Look for shells on Shell Island
The pristine beaches of undeveloped Shell Island stretches for 7 miles and are a top attraction in the Panama City Beach area. This stretch of natural barrier island is a local favorite and is one of the best beaches in Florida to visit. There are no facilities at all, and the Island is home to many rare and endangered animals as well as nesting sea turtles. You will need some type of vessel such as a boat or jet ski, for you cannot access it by land.
7. Go for a bike ride
Grab your beach cruiser and hit the trails! Panama City Beach is home to several bike paths that are easy to access.
-5 miles of trails up State Road 79 across the West Bay Bridge.
-3.5 miles of trails at Frank Brown Park.
-1.5 miles of trails at Aaron Bessant Park in Pier Park.
-Connection to nearly 30 miles of trails at the Panama City Beach Conservation Park.
8. Dolphin Watch
Another one of our favorites. Dolphins tend to be the most active early morning and at sunset. Fewer folks in the surf also make them more likely to put on a show so grab your camera and find your favorite quiet beach spot and enjoy the wildlife.
9. Picnic on the beach
Order takeout from your go-to Panama City Beach restaurant and enjoy it with a beach view. Grab a beach blanket, add your favorite beverage to wash it all down and you’ve got yourself a beach picnic. Even though some restaurants are offering dine-in services again, many are still offering delivery and to-go as well. Some popular local favs include Finn’s Island Style Grubb, Diego’s Burrito Factory, Schooners, Dee’s Hangout, Bayou on the Beach Cafe & Oyster Bar, and Paparazzi Gourmet Deli!
10. Fishing
Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is one of the most popular activities in Panama City Beach. A few of the most frequently visited spots are M.B. Miller County Pier, St Andrew’s State Park Pier, or if you have access to a boat and need an adrenaline rush, try deep-sea fishing!
Panama City Beach might just be one of the best places to practice social distancing. With all the fun and safe options out there, you can’t go wrong getting outside while staying healthy!
Sand Seeker Vacations can help you find the best rental property to fit your needs while our wonderful beach town starts to transition back to a normal way of life. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach house for the whole family or a gulf-view condo for the weekend, our Sand Seeker team can help. Contact us at (850) 234-2151 or check out our website for more information.
