Your Guide to the Best Outdoor & Water Activities in Panama City, Florida
Surrounded by the beautiful St. Andrews Bay, you’ll find endless water activities Panama City, Florida. Whether you are sailing at sunset, reeling in a redfish, paddling through quiet inlets, or snorkeling over seagrass beds, there is an adventure for every kind of explorer. Local charters, rentals, and guided tours make it easy to experience the best of the Gulf Coast, from laid-back bay cruises to high-energy excursions.
Fishing Charters
Fishing here happens all year long. With offshore, inshore, onshore, and even freshwater options, there’s always something biting in Panama City. And thanks to our mild winters and warm Gulf currents, you don’t have to be an expert to have a good day on the water. With half-day, full-day, and private options, it is easy to find a trip that fits your needs.
Jet Ski & Boat Rentals
Exploring St. Andrews Bay by water is a must while you are in town. Rent a pontoon for a laid-back day of cruising, or choose a jet ski for something a little more fast-paced. Most rentals depart from city marinas or nearby docks, making it easy to reach Shell Island, spot dolphins, and experience some of the area’s most scenic coastal highlights.
Dolphin Excursions
Dolphin sightings are part of the magic in Panama City, and local guides know just where to find them. Take a guided boat tour through the bay, past historic docks and hidden inlets, and enjoy watching dolphins play in the wild. Some excursions include swimming, snorkeling, or stops at Shell Island, making it a full day of discovery on the water.
Snorkeling & Diving
Panama City offers excellent conditions for snorkeling and diving, with clear waters, diverse marine life, shallow seagrass beds, jetties, and easy access points throughout the bay. Guided eco-tours and rental gear are available for all skill levels, whether you are diving deeper or staying close to the surface.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking
St. Andrews Bay is perfect for paddling. It’s calm, scenic, and full of surprises. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and set out on your own, or join a guided outing that combines fitness and fun. Try paddleboard yoga in the morning light or book a glow kayak tour after sunset, when the bay lights up with color and movement. These experiences offer a peaceful, playful way to explore the water up close.
Bayside Beaches
Tucked along the shoreline, Panama City’s bayside beaches are a peaceful place to swim, picnic, and unwind. These spots offer shallow water, gentle waves, and wide-open space, ideal for families, paddlers, and anyone looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the coast. No long walks or packed parking lots here, just simple, scenic shoreline right in town.
Marinas
Panama City knows its way around the water. With eight marinas tucked into scenic bays and bayous, it’s easy to launch an adventure, tie up for lunch, or kick back and enjoy the view. Whether you’re here to fish, sail, or just soak up that salt air, each stop offers a different way to experience the bay. Some are quiet and tucked away, others are steps from the action—but all of them are ready when you are.
Shell Island
Just a short boat ride from shore, Shell Island is a local treasure with untouched white sands, turquoise water, and coastal beauty. This undeveloped barrier island is perfect for shelling, snorkeling, and spotting shorebirds or dolphins. Accessible by shuttle, tour boat, or private charter, it is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the natural side of Panama City.