2 Days of Family Fun on St. Andrews Bay

Family vacations are about spending time together and trying something new. In Panama City, you can watch dolphins swimming through St. Andrews Bay, snorkel around Shell Island, paint pottery together, play a few rounds at the arcade, and end the day with dinner on the waterfront. This two-day itinerary combines some of our favorite family experiences into an easy getaway that everyone can enjoy.

Panama City brings all of those moments together in one unforgettable destination.

This two day itinerary is designed for families looking to enjoy quality time together while exploring the city’s waterfront, historic neighborhoods, and locally owned attractions. Spend your first day discovering Downtown Panama City before heading to Historic St. Andrews on day two, where fishing, local history, waterfront parks, and coastal dining create the perfect ending to your getaway.

Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventure, interactive experiences, or simply spending time together along the bay, this itinerary offers something everyone will love.

Downtown Panama City is the perfect place to begin your family getaway. The waterfront, interactive attractions, and relaxed coastal atmosphere create an exciting first day that balances adventure with plenty of opportunities to spend time together.

Begin your day with breakfast at Big Mama’s on the Bayou, where fluffy pancakes, biscuits, omelets, and Southern favorites provide plenty of fuel for the adventures ahead. Waterfront views add an extra touch to the morning while everyone decides what they are most excited to experience.

Looking for something quick before heading out on the water? Dan-D-Donuts & Deli has been a Panama City tradition for generations. This classic walk-up window serves fresh donuts, pastries, and coffee, making it the perfect stop to grab breakfast before a day of family adventures. Grab a box to share and enjoy a local tradition before setting out to explore the bay.

One of the highlights of any family vacation in Panama City is getting out on St. Andrews Bay.

Book a dolphin and snorkeling excursion with Flippin’ Awesome Adventures for an experience that combines wildlife, education, and adventure into one unforgettable morning. Led by marine biologist Captain Chris Farley, each excursion gives families the opportunity to search for dolphins, snorkel the crystal-clear waters around Shell Island, and participate in the popular Critter Corner experience to learn about and safely handle local marine life.

Kids love getting an up close look at marine life while learning about the animals and ecosystems that make St. Andrews Bay one of Florida’s most unique coastal environments. Every trip offers something different, making each excursion a memorable experience for every member of the family.

After your morning on the water, enjoy a casual lunch downtown.

Tom’s Hot Dogs has served generations of locals with classic hot dogs, burgers, and comfort food in a relaxed setting that families appreciate.

If everyone is craving a variety of options, head to The Place Downtown for burgers, wings, sandwiches, salads, wraps, and Southern favorites served in a welcoming atmosphere.

The afternoon is yours to customize based on your family’s interests.

Challenge each other at Point Break Arcade, where classic arcade games, pinball machines, and modern favorites create hours of entertainment.

Create a one-of-a-kind keepsake together at Out of the Box Art Studio by painting pottery that will become a lasting reminder of your vacation.

Work together at Escape Manor, solving clues and puzzles as a team while racing against the clock to find your way out of the escape room.

Or step inside The Portal Downtown, choosing from hundreds of board games while enjoying one of their popular dirty sodas.

Each attraction offers a completely different experience, making it easy to build an afternoon that fits your family’s personality.

As the afternoon turns into evening, make your way to the Destination Panama City Visitor Center along St. Andrews Bay. Spend time relaxing at the bayside beach, where calm, shallow water creates an inviting place for swimming and snorkeling.

The waterfront also offers several unique ways to enjoy the bay. Reserve a Glow Float experience as the sun begins to set, or explore the shoreline on a Hydrobike or paddleboard from Bayside Rentals while taking in beautiful waterfront views.

Families looking for even more fun on the water can spend time at Kingdom Splash Fest, an inflatable water park featuring obstacle courses, climbing elements, slides, and splash zones that keep kids active before dinner.

End the day with dinner at Bayou Joe’s, one of Panama City’s most unique waterfront restaurants. Built directly over Massalina Bayou, the dining deck extends above the water, creating beautiful 360-degree views from nearly every table. While you wait for your meal, ask your server for fish food and enjoy feeding the fish swimming below. After sunset, underwater LED lights illuminate the bayou, attracting fish and creating a memorable dining experience for the whole family. Fresh seafood, burgers, and laid-back waterfront dining make Bayou Joe’s the perfect place to end a day of family adventures.

Historic St. Andrews blends waterfront charm, local history, and laid-back coastal character into a day the whole family will enjoy. Spend time on the water, explore fascinating museums, stroll beneath centuries-old oak trees, and discover one of Panama City’s most walkable neighborhoods.

Start the morning at Luna Muna Cafebar, a bright, coastal-inspired café in Historic St. Andrews where fresh, made-to-order breakfasts are crafted with farm-fresh eggs, local produce, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Families will find plenty to love on the menu, from fluffy pancakes and thick-cut French toast to breakfast sandwiches, hearty hash bowls, smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, and specialty coffee.

Spend the morning on the water with a family fishing charter, one of Panama City’s favorite traditions. Local captains like Family Tradition Charters, Last Local Guide Service, and GoldenRod Fishing Charters welcome anglers of all ages and skill levels, making it easy for first-time fishermen and seasoned anglers alike to enjoy a day on the bay or Gulf. With plenty of experienced guides to choose from, families can reel in redfish, trout, flounder, snapper, and more while spending quality time together enjoying the sunshine.

Celebrate your morning on the water with lunch at Slice House. Fresh pizza, shareable pies, and a family-friendly atmosphere make it an easy stop before continuing your day.

Spend the afternoon exploring a few of Historic St. Andrews’ local museums and learning more about Panama City’s history.

The Panama City Publishing Museum shares the history of local journalism and the people who helped build the community, while the Native Spirit Museum & Gallery showcases Indigenous history, culture, artwork, and artifacts that provide fascinating insight into the region’s heritage.

These attractions offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages while adding another layer to your family’s adventure.

Save room for a sweet treat at Drew’s Ice Cream, a longtime local favorite serving homemade ice cream in a variety of classic and creative flavors.

Then, take a leisurely walk through Oaks by the Bay Park beneath the magnificent Old Sentry Oak. The waterfront park features wide open green space, shaded walking paths, and beautiful views of St. Andrews Bay, giving families plenty of room to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors together.

As you continue exploring Historic St. Andrews, keep an eye out for colorful murals along the Panama City Mural Trail. Large-scale murals and hidden micro murals transform the neighborhood into an interactive scavenger hunt, with plenty of opportunities for fun family photos along the way.

Historic St. Andrews is home to some of Panama City’s most beloved seafood restaurants, making dinner an easy choice after a full day of exploring.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar introduces families to one of the city’s most iconic seafood traditions, serving oysters, shrimp, fish, and Gulf Coast favorites in a casual atmosphere.

Captain’s Table Fish House offers fresh seafood, waterfront views, and a menu with something everyone can enjoy.

Complete your family getaway at Papa Joe’s Bayside.

If you enjoy an early dinner, you’ll have time to go on a sunset cruise aboard the Grand-Mère before returning to Papa Joe’s for live music, pickleball, lawn games, and time together overlooking the bay.

Children can play while parents relax with waterfront views, creating the perfect ending to two memorable days in Panama City.

Plan Ahead

Family Travel Tips

Book Excursions Early

Popular boat tours and fishing charters fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve your spot a few weeks ahead when possible.

Arrive Hungry

Panama City is known for its fresh Gulf seafood. Many local restaurants serve oysters, shrimp, snapper, and seasonal catches sourced from nearby waters, so plan a few seafood meals during your stay.

Make Time for Sunset

St. Andrews Bay offers beautiful sunsets throughout the year. Waterfront parks, restaurants, sailing cruises, and Papa Joe’s Bayside are all great places to end the day.

Leave Space for Local Discoveries

Some of the best family experiences happen between planned stops. A colorful mural, a dessert shop, live music, or a waterfront playground often becomes an unexpected highlight of the day.