When it comes to enjoying the perfect day by the sea, the real challenge isn’t finding a beach—it’s deciding which one to visit! Panama City Beach boasts over 100 public beach access points and two beautiful state parks, meaning there’s no shortage of options, whether you’re looking for a lively spot with all the amenities or a quieter stretch of sand to relax. Each beach offers its own unique atmosphere, catering to a wide range of preferences and ensuring that every visitor can find their ideal coastal experience. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, here’s a look at some of Panama City Beach’s most popular access points, each loved for its beauty and charm by both residents and tourists alike:
SPYGLASS
What better place to begin your beach day than Beach Access Point 1? Located on Spyglass Drive, this easternmost access point is nestled among a mix of beachfront homes, vacation rentals, and condominiums, offering a charming and serene beach experience. Just a block south of Thomas Drive, Spyglass is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more private spot to relax and enjoy the sun. Although there isn’t a public parking lot directly adjacent to the boardwalk, Spyglass provides convenient walkover amenities that make it easy to access the beach. For those exploring further, Access Points 2 and 3 are located just a bit farther west along Spyglass Drive, each featuring its own boardwalk, allowing beachgoers to choose from a few different entry points along this scenic stretch of coastline.
SCHOONERS BEACH
(Next to Public Beach Access 4) Schooners delivers a nostalgic taste of classic Panama City Beach—combining the laid-back charm of a vintage beach restaurant with fresh seafood and a generous dose of fun. Located along Gulf Drive, it’s the perfect spot for anyone wanting to make the most of a day at the beach. Whether you’re lounging by the water, playing a lively game of volleyball, or simply soaking in the sun, Schooners has something for everyone. Grab a cold beer, enjoy a juicy burger or fresh oysters, or just kick back on your beach blanket and take in the sights and sounds of the day. With its carefree atmosphere and coastal vibe, Schooners remains a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
DOG BEACH
(Public Beach accesses 56, 57 & 58) The Dog Beach, located on the west side of the City Pier at Pier Park, offers a delightful twist on the traditional dog park experience. This designated pet-friendly area allows your four-legged companions to unleash their energy and enjoy the surf and sand alongside fellow pups. Spanning 400 feet of pristine shoreline, it’s the perfect place for dogs to frolic, splash in the waves, and socialize with other furry friends. While humans are required to supervise their pets, the beach provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to experience the joys of the coast. Whether your dog loves to run in the sand, chase waves, or simply relax in the sunshine, this special beach offers a unique way to enjoy the beautiful Panama City Beach scenery together.
87’ERS
(Public Beach Access 87) Everyone seems to have a go-to stretch of sand, and for one passionate group, it’s become a beach tradition—and a social media sensation. Beach Access 87 has been lovingly adopted by a community of beach enthusiasts known as the “87’ers.” Primarily made up of local residents, the 87’ers have taken their love for this spot to Facebook, where their page is filled with favorite hangouts, stunning beach photos, and a shared sense of community. Whether it's for catching the perfect sunset or just enjoying the Gulf’s beauty, this group has made Beach Access 87 their own. Do you have a favorite beach access? Maybe it’s time to turn your own coastal hangout into a beloved tradition and build a little community of your own along the shore!
PIERS
(City Pier: Public Beach Accesses 53-58; County Pier: Not numbered) Visitors to Panama City Beach are in for a treat with two iconic piers offering ample parking, easy beach access, and stunning views: the Russell Fields Pier and the M.B. Miller Pier. The City Pier is conveniently located in front of Pier Park along Front Beach Road, while the County Pier is situated a bit farther east, just over 3 miles away, near Shipwreck Island. Both piers feature identical 1,500-foot-long spans that extend over the Gulf, providing breathtaking vistas of the coastline. There are separate fees for strolling along the piers or casting a line, so whether you're just there for the view or hoping to reel in some local fish, both piers offer plenty to enjoy. If the scenery doesn't captivate you, the fish-filled waters below just might!
RICK SELTZER PARK
Another local favorite, Richard Seltzer Park on Thomas Drive, is a nearly 5-acre haven of coastline. With plenty of parking available, visitors can easily enter the park for no fee. Before setting up chairs and umbrellas, you’ll notice picnicking pavilions, public restrooms and shower stations, should you need them during your stay. Aside from a front row seat to the emerald waters, visitors love knowing that they’re just a crosswalk away from beachside restaurants and shopping. Mostly, however, you’ll want to keep your toes buried in the sand and enjoy the ultimate form of relaxation. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK
Within one of Panama City Beach’s most historic state parks are a variety of different beach experiences. St. Andrews State Park hosts over 1 1/2 miles of beach, offering the luxury of being steeped in natural Florida. While St. Andrews State Park offers gorgeous trails and campsites, many visitors flock to the park’s beaches for watersports and boating adventures. Since the park is located on a peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon, visitors can enjoy long stretches of Gulf side beach, the protected “Kiddie Pool” behind the jetties, fishing along Deepwater Point, or strolling along the sand watching boats leave the calm of the Grand Lagoon. The park entry fee is $8 per vehicle — a terrific value for one of Florida’s most popular state parks.
CAMP HELEN STATE PARK
At the very edge of Panama City Beach, past even public beach access 98, you’ll discover beautiful Camp Helen State Park — a site rich in history just west of the Phillips Inlet Bridge. Taking a walk through the past is just part of why visitors love the secluded beach at Camp Helen. Upon parking in the main lot, visitors take a stunning half-mile hike past a historic log cabin-style lodge, the colorful row of the Rainbow Cottages and down over a small bridge as you follow a path winding through sand dunes and along Lake Powell to a secluded beach.
