Log in to add to your Trip Planner

A wave of growth and development is rolling into Panama City Beach, changing and improving the landscape like never before. Brand new condominiums, a refurbished city pier, Pier Park, attractions and the upcoming arrival of a new International airport are enticing visitors of all kinds to picturesque Gulf coast beaches.

With the advent of the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport that opened in May 2010, Panama City Beach is expecting a whole new audience of admirers for its white sand and emerald waters. Southwest Airlines now provides nonstop service to Panama City Beach from Baltimore, Houston, Nashville and Orlando.

Pier Park, the one million+ square foot Panama City Beach shopping and entertainment complex has also seen explosive growth. Guy Harvey’s Island Grill is the newest addition. Accentuated by the artist and conservationist’s marine and wildlife decor, the menu features fresh, sustainable seafood and a family-friendly atmosphere. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers also saw a recent grand opening, offering a vibrant, entertaining atmosphere and delicious burgers and American cuisine.

The Panama City Beach shopping complex, opened in 2007, also features Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Dillard’s, Borders, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Old Navy, Candymaker Candy Stores, Massage Envy, Panera Bread, The Back Porch restaurant and Hofbrau Beer Garden, among dozens of others. There’s also a 16 screen, 3,000-seat movie theater, a sand volleyball court, a carousel and other activities.

Across the street from Pier Park, the renovated Russell Fields Pier recently reopened. The landmark city pier is known among locals as the best spot to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico and is prized as a prime fishing spot for anglers of all ages. The new concrete pier will extend more than 1,600 feet into the water, making it the longest pier on the Gulf Coast. With rod rentals and tackle available on site, visitors and locals can cast from the pier year-round.

In addition, several new Panama City Beach condominium properties have opened across the beach, bringing the total number of rooms to over 21,400. Newly opened locations include Sterling Breeze, Shores of Panama and Palazzo Condominium Resort. All feature luxury accommodations and a wealth of amenities.

Another upcoming arrival is the Shubee Double Flowrider. The Flowrider is an indoor wave-maker that allows people to surf, regardless of weather or water conditions. It’s a family-friendly indoor activity that’s great for the novice or experienced surfer. Flowrider is scheduled to open soon, and the attraction will feature private party rooms, observation areas and a retail shop. It's just the newest of many Panama City Beach attractions.

New and returning visitors will be surprised and delighted with the wealth of new offerings springing up across the beach! It’s a whole new Panama City Beach, and it’s real fun.  Make sure and check back with VisitPanamaCityBeach.com for all the Panama City Beach news and Panama City Beach information you need, whether it's booking information or details on the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Related Files

• Pier Park Mall Directory
  A mall directory and hours for Pier Park.
• Panama City Beach Consumer Brochure
  A copy of the bright, fun and informative consumer brochure for Panama City Beach.