Panama City, Florida, is a location that is rich in culture and centrally located to diverse and beautiful locations. Sometimes all one needs is a change of scenery to readjust and prepare for the week ahead. If the kids need a break or if you’re just looking for an opportunity to create memories, a day trip out of Panama City could be your answer. Read on to learn about our list of the some of the local options available to you.
Grayton Beach State Park
Image via Flickr by under CC BY 2.0 goldenticket76
Grayton Beach State Park features some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets your family will ever witness. The community of Grayton Beach is artsy, eclectic, and full of energy. The picturesque Hemingway-style homes are a lovely sight. The streets, paved with crushed oyster shells, create a glistening light and add to the dream-like setting. At the beach, visitors can opt to fish, paddle, or explore the hiking trails. Venture into the coastal forest and admire the scrub oaks and magnolias that tell tales of times past. The 2,000 acres of land is a romantic setting for parents and a magical area for kids.
The beach is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Parking is $5 per vehicle. You’ll find the majestic views of Grayton Beach at 357 Main Park Road, in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. For information, call 850-267-8300.
Shell Island
Shell Island is an underdeveloped beach that is a major attraction to local Panama City residents. This pristine beach is usually referred to as a natural barrier island due to its location between St. Andrews Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Island is also known for being one of the best beaches in Florida. People often visit to spend some time in area waters snorkeling with friendly dolphins or relaxing in the calm waters behind Shell Island Jetty. Shell Island features 7 miles of clean white sand that has been untouched by human development. The emerald waters glisten and the view, colors, and clear natural beauty of Shell Island seem like a fairy tale.
Many locals opt to take the shuttle out to Shell Island. You can spend an hour or an entire day in this completely natural environment. Just be warned that there are no facilities on the island. The area is home to many rare and endangered animals so you may get to see nesting sea turtles and other creatures that call this preserved location home. A trip here carries responsibility with it as you must bring back everything you take with you.
The Shell Island Shuttle offers a scenic ride over to Shell Island. During the spring and fall, boats depart hourly from 9 a.m to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, weather permitting. Summer is the busy season so boats depart every 45 minutes, seven days a week, also from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can buy your tickets online or at 5709 N. Lagoon Drive. Tickets are $22.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids, and infants ride free. For information, call 850-233-0504.
Perdido Key State Park
Perdido Key State Park is one of Florida’s hidden gems. Aptly named, since “perdido” means “lost” in the Spanish language, this is the place to leave your troubles behind and get lost in nature. The white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing and building sand castles with the kids. The covered picnic tables overlook the beach and provide a scenic spot for families to have lunch.
Enjoy swimming in the warm gulf waters, lounging on the white sand beaches, or admiring the rolling dunes covered in sea oats. From March to August, you may catch a glimpse of the sea turtles who choose to lay their eggs in nests along the shore. If you’re interested in a longer visit, spend the day at Perdido Key State Park and camp overnight at the nearby Big Lagoon State Park.
Perdido Key State Park is located at 15301 Perdido Key Drive, in Pensacola. Parking is $3 per vehicle and the beach is open from 8 a.m. until sunset, seven days a week, all year long.
St. George Island
St. George Island, known as “The Forgotten Coast,” is the place to remember if you want to see 28 miles of pristine natural landscape. This pet-friendly locale is one of the last unspoiled barrier islands in Florida and welcomes you to bring the entire family out for some rest and relaxation. Families can go swimming, hiking, canoeing, fishing, or sunbathing, in an uncrowded setting away from the busy tourist culture. Nature and animal lovers alike will enjoy venturing out into the bay marshes to see the area wildlife, explore the dunes and pine forests, and experience one of the Sunshine State’s incredible sunsets.
St. George offers great shopping opportunities and is an extremely pet-friendly community that caters to you and the needs of your furry companions. Many restaurants allow pets on the patio, and several vacation homes open their doors to guests with pets. Kids will love the relaxed and welcoming vibe.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park And Campground
The Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Campground was established over 40 years ago and remains a great destination for kids and families to enjoy the great outdoors in a fun and rustic environment. The beautiful shaded campsites are surrounded by tall oak trees and thick green foliage. The lush surroundings provide an element of privacy and while the site itself boasts many amenities to make your family’s stay a comfortable one. Sit around a bonfire, go bird watching, and try to catch a glimpse of some the wildlife that call the area home.
Visit the state park and fish in the crystaline waters, or go swimming, tubing, and kayaking along the river. This outdoorsy retreat boasts towering live oak and cypress trees, making it a perfect location to escape the Florida heat. The campground is at 245 SW Breckenridge Lane, in Fort White, Florida. For information, or to make a reservation, call 386-497-2285.
So there you have it. Panama City Toyota has just shared with you the top five great day trips to take from Panama City. If you’re looking for a temporary change of scenery, or want to get away for some rest and relaxation, these destinations are ideal options. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite place to escape to and clear your mind? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we’ll be happy to check out your suggestions.
Panama City Toyota
Connect with us
