Father’s Day is all about spending time together, and Panama City makes that easy. Whether your plans involve a fishing rod, a waterfront table, a cold drink overlooking the bay, or simply a day spent exploring the city, there are plenty of ways to create a memorable weekend. From sunrise on the water to sunset dinners along the bay, Father’s Day in Panama City is filled with opportunities to celebrate Dad his way.

This guide walks through where to eat, where to fish, what to do around town, and even where to find the perfect gift so you can put together a Father’s Day weekend that fits whatever kind of dad you’re celebrating. Whether he’s a quiet oyster guy, a steak-and-bourbon kind of man, an outdoorsman searching for his next adventure, or a sunrise angler chasing redfish, Panama City delivers.

Best Seafood and Steak Restaurants for Father’s Day in Panama City

Whether Dad prefers fresh Gulf seafood, a perfectly cooked steak, or a little of both, Panama City has plenty of restaurants that deliver. From waterfront seafood houses and dockside favorites to upscale dining overlooking the bay, these local spots pair great food with the kind of atmosphere that makes Father’s Day feel special.

Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill

Sitting on St. Andrews Bay, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill checks every Father’s Day box. The waterfront deck looks straight out over the bay, the menu runs from fresh Gulf grouper and crab cakes to hand-cut steaks and pasta, and the atmosphere stays relaxed enough that flip-flops are welcome. Live music shows up on many weekends, with no cover charge.

Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar

Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar is located on the downtown Panama City waterfront with sweeping views of the marina and bay. The menu blends Southern and Gulf seafood traditions with hand-cut steaks, making it one of the most well-rounded spots in town for a celebratory dinner. Think fresh fish of the day, shrimp and grits, and proper steak and seafood combos that satisfy every appetite at the table.

Tarpon’s Restaurant

Located inside Hotel Indigo Panama City Marina, Tarpon’s pairs waterfront views with a menu that celebrates both Gulf seafood and premium cuts of meat. Overlooking the marina and St. Andrews Bay, it’s an easy choice for dads who appreciate a great meal with a view. Fresh catches and seafood specialties share the menu with steaks and hearty entrées, while the restaurant’s polished but relaxed atmosphere makes it equally suited for a Father’s Day dinner. Arrive early and take a stroll along the waterfront promenade before settling in for sunset over the bay.

Bayou Joe’s

For dads who appreciate a true waterfront meal, Bayou Joe’s is a local favorite perched directly over Massalina Bayou, offering front-row views of the water. The menu features fresh Gulf seafood, po’ boys, shrimp baskets, and daily specials served in a relaxed setting that feels distinctly Panama City. Grab a table on the deck, order an appetizer for the group, and enjoy a leisurely meal with one of the best waterfront views in town.

Finns Island Style Grub

For something a little different, Finns Island Style Grub brings island-inspired flavors to the Panama City waterfront. Known for fresh fish tacos and bowls, Finns offers a casual atmosphere with outdoor seating overlooking Lake Ware. Its waterfront setting, laid-back vibe, and fresh coastal flavors make it a popular stop for both locals and visitors.

The Grocery Kitchen & Taproom (Brunch Only on Sundays)

The Grocery Kitchen & Taproom in St. Andrews is a Southern-style, Cajun-inspired spot with one important detail: Sunday service is brunch only, from 10 AM to 3 PM. That timing makes it ideal for a Father’s Day morning celebration before the afternoon heat sets in. Seafood plates, fried strawberries, and smothered chicken biscuits headline the menu. Live music shows up regularly, and the spot sits right in the walkable St. Andrews district.

Los Antojitos (The Locals’ Secret Steak Spot)

Here’s the move only locals know. Los Antojitos may be known for its Mexican cuisine, but ask around and you’ll quickly hear about the steaks. Alongside favorites like carne asada, the menu features ribeyes, sirloins, and other grilled steak options that have earned a loyal following among locals. Pair your meal with one of their signature margaritas and settle in for a Father’s Day dinner that feels a little unexpected. If Dad enjoys discovering hidden gems, this is the spot to surprise him with. Order a steak, add a few street tacos for the table, and enjoy one of Panama City’s favorite local traditions.

Familiar Favorites

Sometimes Dad already knows exactly where he wants to eat. For those craving a classic steakhouse experience, LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse both serve up hand-cut steaks, burgers, and hearty entrées that have made them longtime family favorites.

Father’s Day Fishing Charters in Panama City

If Dad would rather be on the water than at a table, this is where Panama City really shines. Inshore fishing charters in Panama City target redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and snook in the protected waters of St. Andrews Bay and the surrounding flats. The water stays calmer, the fishing stays active, and you’re back at the dock in time for lunch or dinner.

Both of the local guides below launch from the same spot: Papa Joe’s Bayside is a laid-back hangout with food trucks, cocktails, and pickleball if the rest of the family wants to hang out while Dad fishes.

Panama City Inshore

Panama City Inshore runs trips out of Papa Joe’s Bayside targeting trout, redfish, and other inshore species in the bay and back waters. It’s a great option for first-time anglers, dads who haven’t fished in a while, or kids tagging along for a multi-generational Father’s Day trip. The captain knows every honey hole in St. Andrews Bay, and half-day trips work perfectly with a lunch reservation after. Gear, bait, and licenses are typically included, so you just show up ready to fish.

Southern Saltwater Guide Services

Captain Kevin Lolley’s Southern Saltwater Guide Services also launches from Papa Joe’s Bayside, offering nearshore fishing charters. These are private charters, so you’re not sharing the boat with strangers, and trips can flex from half-day to full-day depending on how serious Dad wants to get. Targets include redfish, trout, flounder, and seasonal species, and the local knowledge from years of guiding shows up in every trip.

Other Fun Things to Do for Father’s Day in Panama City

If Dad wants to keep moving between meals, the city has plenty going on. Mix and match a few of these to round out the weekend:

• Point Break Arcade in downtown Panama City offers unlimited play on classic arcade games and pinball machines for one admission price. Pair that with craft beer and a nostalgic lineup of games, and you’ve got a Father’s Day activity that’s fun for multiple generations.
• The Portal Downtown for board games, creative dirty sodas, and a little friendly competition. With hundreds of games available, it’s a fun stop for families and groups looking to spend time together.
• Papa Joe’s Bayside for jet skis, pickleball, lawn games, food trucks, and waterfront views of St. Andrews Bay. It’s an easy place to spend an afternoon relaxing by the water.
• Bayside Rentals offers hydro bike rentals, giving Dad a unique way to explore the bay while getting a little exercise and enjoying the scenery.
• Glow Float takes kayaking to a different level with nighttime paddle adventures aboard illuminated kayaks. It’s a memorable way to experience the water after sunset.
• Boggy Bayou Airboat Tours offers a chance to experience a different side of the Florida Panhandle. Dad can race across the marshes, spot local wildlife, and explore waterways that few visitors ever get to see.
• History Class Brewing for a craft beer flight with Dad and a chance to sample locally brewed favorites in a laid-back setting.

Local Father’s Day Gift Ideas in Panama City

A thoughtful gift can make Father’s Day even more memorable, and Panama City’s locally owned shops offer plenty of options for every type of dad. Whether he enjoys fishing, spending time on the water, exploring the outdoors, or showing off his local pride, you’ll find unique gifts throughout the city that reflect the coastal lifestyle he loves. From tackle and apparel to locally inspired keepsakes, these shops make it easy to find something he’ll actually use long after Father’s Day is over.

• Howell Tackle Supply is a great stop for dads who love fishing, offering everything from tackle and gear to local expertise on what’s biting around St. Andrews Bay.
• C&G Sporting Goods has been outfitting Panama City outdoorsmen for generations. From fishing and hunting gear to apparel and accessories, it’s a one-stop shop for dads who enjoy spending time outside.
• Sunjammers is ideal for coastal dads, with a wide selection of performance fishing apparel, casual beachwear, hats, sunglasses, and gear built for life on the water.
• Minutes & Miles is a great stop for active dads, offering premium running, walking, and outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear from top brands.
• Hoyden Hats creates custom handcrafted hats that make a memorable Father’s Day gift. Design a hat that reflects Dad’s personality and give him something truly one of a kind.
• Destination Panama City Visitor Center offers official LovePC merchandise, including hats, stickers, magnets, and other locally inspired gifts. It’s an easy stop for visitors looking to bring home a piece of Panama City.

Places to Stay for Father’s Day Weekend

Turn Father’s Day into a full weekend getaway with a stay in Panama City. Several local hotels still have availability, making it easy to spend more time on the water, enjoy a waterfront dinner, or squeeze in one more fishing trip before heading home. Book your stay and make the most of Father’s Day in Panama City. Convenient options include:

• Hotel Indigo
• Holiday Inn
• La Quinta Inn & Suites
• Hilton Garden Inn
• Courtyard by Marriott
• TownePlace Suites
• Econo Lodge
• Ramada by Wyndham
• Quality Inn & Suites
• Rodeway Inn

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique Father’s Day activities in Panama City?

Panama City offers plenty of ways to celebrate beyond a traditional meal. Dads can explore the bay on a hydro bike from Bayside Rentals, go on a fishing charter, take a nighttime paddle with Glow Float, race across the marshes with Boggy Bayou Airboat Tours, or spend the afternoon playing unlimited arcade games at Point Break Arcade. Whether Dad enjoys the outdoors, friendly competition, or trying something new, there are plenty of memorable experiences to choose from.

Is Panama City a good destination for Father’s Day?

Yes, Panama City is an excellent Father’s Day destination thanks to its mix of fishing, waterfront dining, outdoor recreation, and local attractions. Families can spend the day on the water, enjoy fresh seafood, explore historic neighborhoods, and take advantage of activities ranging from airboat tours to board games and craft breweries.

Where can I buy a Father’s Day gift in Panama City?

Local favorites include Howell Tackle Supply, C&G Sporting Goods, Sunjammers, Minutes & Miles, and the Destination Panama City Visitor Center. These shops offer everything from fishing gear and outdoor apparel to locally inspired gifts and official LovePC merchandise.

What are the best waterfront restaurants for Father’s Day in Panama City?

Some of the best waterfront restaurants for Father’s Day include Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill, Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar, Tarpon’s at Hotel Indigo, Bayou Joe’s, and Finns Island Style Grub. Each offers waterfront views and a menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, or both.

What are the best family-friendly Father’s Day activities in Panama City?

Families can enjoy board games and dirty sodas at The Portal Downtown, unlimited arcade games at Point Break Arcade, pickleball and lawn games at Papa Joe’s Bayside, or a wildlife-filled adventure with Boggy Bayou Airboat Tours. These activities make it easy to create a Father’s Day that everyone can enjoy together.

Where can I get fresh seafood in Panama City?

Panama City is known for its fresh Gulf seafood, and local favorites include Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill, Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar, Tarpon’s, Bayou Joe’s, Finns Island Style Grub, and Hunt’s Oyster Bar. Many restaurants source seafood locally and offer waterfront views that enhance the experience.

What are the best outdoor activities for Father’s Day in Panama City?

Popular outdoor Father’s Day activities include fishing charters on St. Andrews Bay, hydro bike rentals from Bayside Rentals, kayaking with Glow Float, airboat rides with Boggy Bayou Airboat Tours, and spending the day at Papa Joe’s Bayside enjoying pickleball, lawn games, and waterfront views.

Where can Dad get a craft beer in Panama City?

History Class Brewing is one of the top spots in Panama City for local craft beer. Visitors can sample a flight of house-made brews, enjoy the taproom atmosphere, and pair their beer with a meal while exploring Downtown Panama City.