Panama City Beach is a resort city nestled on the northwestern coast of Florida in Bay County, along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches here are often heralded as "the world's most beautiful beaches."
This article delves deeper into the city's details.
The History of Panama City Beach
The history of Panama City Beach dates back to the arrival of its first inhabitants 13,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. A rare archaeological site from that era, the Ancient Shell Midden in the Oaks, mainly composed of mollusk shells, has been preserved to this day.
Many of the region's early European visitors were pirates, lying in wait to attack Spanish galleons laden with riches. One such enormous galleon, complete with a massive cannon, was unexpectedly discovered beneath a local motel in the early 1960s. Many other sunken ships rest under St. Andrews Bay, still considered the shipwreck capital of the world today. During this era, Panama City remained sparsely populated for about two centuries, until Cherokee and Creek tribes arrived to escape forced relocation to the West. A retired Georgia governor and his wife were among the area's first permanent settlers, with their family home later becoming a popular hotel.
By the 1830s, Seminoles and white settlers made up most of the local population, and later the area began attracting tourists interested in fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. It is said that salt harvested from the bay was effectively used to treat various ailments and was supplied to Confederate troops during the American Civil War.
Following the Civil War, the city once again became a popular site for shipbuilding, fishing, and tourism. In 1927, Panama City merged with three neighboring towns, expanding its territory. The city became a prominent port during World War II.
Today, Panama City Beach welcomes tourists as the city functions as the cultural, business, and administrative center of Bay County.
What to Do in Panama City
- Museum of Man in the Sea
Established in 1976 by the Institute of Diving, composed of former Navy SEALs and marine scientists, this museum explores the history of human interaction with the underwater world through interactive exhibits and engaging displays. Visitors can climb aboard a submarine, try on a copper diving helmet, and learn about the strange and wonderful techniques ancient divers used for breathing and staying underwater. The museum features displays of submarines and living quarters, masks and helmets, and diving gear. - The Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida
This children's museum is designed to introduce visitors to history, technology, and science in an interactive way. Outdoors, there's a nature trail through the woods with a boardwalk over swampy terrain, a playground, and a shaded picnic area under the trees. Animal encounters with snakes and other reptiles occur weekly. The museum hosts summer camps and birthday parties. It's an excellent educational environment for children whose parents want to add more science to their curriculum. - Paradise Adventures Catamaran
Offers tours along the Gulf of Mexico coast on a 52-foot catamaran. The 49-person cruise departs from Pirates Cove Marina in the Thomas Drive area. Morning and daytime adventure tours last three hours, stopping near Shell Island. Evening sunset cruises last two hours and are an ideal way to spend the evening searching for dolphins. The catamaran has ample space for relaxation both in the shade and in the sun. - Conservation Park
Serves as both a public park and an effort to restore threatened wetlands and cypress forests. The shortest trail is half a mile, and the longest is eleven miles, all flat and easily walkable. Only pedestrians and cyclists are allowed on the trails, and dogs must be leashed. Visitors can see alligators, wild boars, lizards, and a wide variety of birds. Parking and restrooms are available for guests.
Panama City Beach is perfectly suited for both family vacations and youth tourism. Here, everyone can find an activity to their liking, from relaxing on the spacious beaches to engaging in active pursuits such as diving, surfing, and other water sports. The city is renowned for its magnificent golf courses, as well as numerous parks and nature reserves where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the local flora and fauna.
One of the highlights of Panama City Beach is its vibrant nightlife. The city offers a wide selection of restaurants, bars, clubs, and other entertainment venues where you can enjoy music, dancing, and delicious food.
Your trip to Panama City Beach would be incomplete without the experience that American Butler can offer. With our help, your vacation will turn into a true enchantment. We provide a full range of services, including booking the best hotels, organizing tours to the most scenic and cultural places, and planning personalized itineraries to ensure your adventure is comfortable, exciting, and carefree.
Turn to American Butler to plan your ideal trip to Panama City Beach and be ready for unforgettable impressions and joyful moments!
Share
