History of Panama City, Florida

Panama City Beach has long been known for its gorgeous natural surroundings and "fun in the sun" attitude. Thus, it has been a favorite spot for spring breakers for years. Recently efforts to offer more upscale accommodations and amenities has been on the rise, and you will find you don't have to be a college student to experience a great Florida vacation in Panama City. The Panama City area was originally inhabited by Native Americans centuries ago. It wasn't until the early 19th century that settlers from Georgia and Alabama discovered its natural beauty and started building summer retreats by the shores of St. Andrews Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The area became a municipality in 1909 and with the addition of Tyndall Air Field and Wainwright Shipyard during World War II, Panama City experienced a steady era of growth and expansion. Today, Panama City is home to about 35,000 full time residents, and retains much of the subtropical charm that drew those first settlers 180 years ago. Blending in with the laid back tradition of the area is the onset of upscale amenities to make your vacation even more enjoyable. New and unique buildings, creative restaurants, exciting new attractions and can't miss shopping stops are constantly being added to the area. The addition of the Bay County International Airport in 2009 will make it even easier to get here and enjoy Panama City has to offer.

Attractions of Panama City Beach, Florida

The area of Panama City and Panama City Beach is the perfect setting for just about anyone's tastes. Championship high ranking golf courses, six in all, are never more than about fifteen minutes away from the gorgeous white sand beaches hugging the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. And yes, the beaches have been ranked in the top five worldwide on numerous occasions also. What else is there to do? Well, there is great shopping and local dining, tours and arts offerings, plus every water activity imaginable. Windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, jet skiing or good old fashioned sunning and swimming is all here for your pleasure. Then there is the fishing - some of the best you will find anywhere, and yes, Panama City Beach holds top five rankings in the country for that also. Blue Marlin, Mackerel and red Snapper are just a few of the fishy friends you'll find here. If you want to charter a boat, plan as early as possible, and hopefully you will be eating the catch of the day every night at sunset. Accommodations range from hotels and motels to quaint beach cottages, high rise condominiums and private luxury homes. Consider a vacation rental property to maximize your vacation satisfaction. And don't miss one beautiful sunset while you are in Panama City Beach. This is a requirement.