Panama City Beach Family-Friendly Attractions

Panama City Beach attractions cover the gamut of indoor and outdoor recreation fit for family groups of all ages

Panama City Beach attractions along with the ideal location along the beautiful Gulf of Mexico affords dynamic recreations only found here. State parks and miles of sugar-white sand beaches lined by shimmering emerald waters are inviting on their own. Throw in one-of-a-kind water activities, waterparks and aquatic adventures, and you’ve got yourself the perfect family reunion at the beach.

Let’s explore some of the top choices in activities for families traveling to Panama City Beach. Every family is special in its own way, just like each of these wild adventures, which are suitable for all ages and abilities.

Be sure to contact Panama City Beach for more group travel information.

Shell Island

If members of your group are seeking an unspoiled beach adventure, take the Shell Island Shuttle to Shell Island where nature abounds. The undeveloped island sits between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay and offers an array of outdoor activities from nature watching, fishing and boating to sunbathing and beachcombing. Groups can rent kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles and boats or take a dolphin tour. Some of the best snorkeling is found here in the year-round temperate turquoise waters. Additionally, the “children’s pool,” where guests are dropped off, is the perfect spot for beginners and youngsters to test the waters of snorkeling.

Take the Shell Island Shuttle

St. Andrews State Park

For more natural adventures, head to St. Andrews State Park, where groups can camp, go swimming, fishing, snorkeling, surfing and more. You can also sit back and do some birdwatching during a picnic at the pavilion. Active families will appreciate the soft, pristine beaches that stretch for a mile-and-a-half, providing a playground full of family-friendly activities to please every age.

Snorkel at St. Andrews State Park

Camp Helen State Park and Powell Lake

More outdoor fun can be had at Camp Helen State Park, surrounded on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Florida’s largest unique dune lake, Powell Lake. Anglers of all skill levels will find optimal freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities while other recreations include birdwatching, beachcombing, hiking, biking and swimming. History tours are also available on the first Saturday of every month with tickets.

Outdoor Activities for All Ages

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Shipwreck Island Waterpark is the place to be on hot Florida days. With three million gallons of water flowing through the 15-acre park, there’s aquatic fun for all ages. Splash in the 500,000-gallon wave pool or the Tadpole Hole, with over an acre of pools, waterslides and attractions specially designed for the youngest guests.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark Rides for Everyone

Cobra Adventure Park

Youngsters will have a blast at the modest Cobra Adventure Park, a beachside amusement and entertainment area perfect for younger kids. Hop on the Max Flight Simulator for a futuristic experience or The Dragon Wagon, a kids-only steel-track rollercoaster for thrilling experiences. Other activities for kids to adults include an arcade, an 18-hole pirate-themed mini golf course, go-karts on four levels and more.

Experience the Thrills at Cobra Adventure Park

For a deeper dive into Panama City Beach’s unique avocations, click here to explore our reunion guide, filled with insider tips, must-visit spots, and hidden gems that will make your family reunion unforgettable!

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