Trade heavy coats and snowy sidewalks for waterfront sunsets, fresh Gulf seafood and sunny afternoons along St. Andrews Bay. Winter in Panama City, Florida, brings a refreshing change of pace, with mild coastal weather, walkable historic neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a season made for exploring local shops, discovering colorful murals, enjoying waterfront dining and finding new favorite places around the bay.
From holiday celebrations to scenic trails and afternoons on the water, there’s plenty to fill your winter getaway. Planning a long weekend or an extended stay? Here are seven ways to enjoy Panama City during the winter months.
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Celebrate the Season with Winter Events and Festivals
Winter brings a full calendar of seasonal events to Panama City, with celebrations that showcase the city’s waterfront setting, creative community and local traditions.
December begins with Christmas festivities throughout Historic Downtown and St. Andrews. The annual Boat Parade of Lights fills St. Andrews Bay with illuminated boats, while holiday markets, Christmas parades, decorated storefronts and community celebrations bring plenty of cheer to the historic neighborhoods.
In February, the Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras brings colorful floats, live music, beads and festive celebrations to the streets of Historic St. Andrews. The neighborhood’s restaurants, shops and waterfront setting make it a favorite place to spend the day enjoying the festivities.
As winter gives way to spring, the FLLUXE Arts Festival brings a burst of creativity to Downtown Panama City with street painting, public art, live performances and interactive experiences.
Throughout the season, visitors can also enjoy concerts by the Panama City Symphony, art exhibitions at the Panama City Center for the Arts, and other local galleries. Check the Panama City events calendar to discover what’s happening during your visit.
Explore Panama City’s Historic Neighborhoods
Winter’s comfortable temperatures make it a great time to discover Panama City’s historic neighborhoods, each offering its own mix of local history, shopping, dining, and waterfront attractions.
In Historic Downtown Panama City, spend the morning browsing art galleries, exploring colorful murals and visiting locally owned shops along Harrison Avenue. Stop by the Panama City Center for the Arts, enjoy lunch at a neighborhood restaurant or take a stroll along the waterfront near the Panama City Marina.
Historic St. Andrews offers a different perspective, with its working marina, charming storefronts and waterfront restaurants along St. Andrews Bay. Explore the Panama City Publishing Company Museum, visit the Native Spirit Museum & Gallery or enjoy an afternoon at Oaks by the Bay Park beneath the branches of the centuries-old Old Sentry Oak.
In Glenwood, discover the neighborhood’s African American heritage through its historical markers and community landmarks, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. Farther east, Millville offers waterfront parks, marinas, antique shopping and longtime local favorites like Gene’s Oyster Bar. Each neighborhood gives visitors a chance to experience another side of Panama City while enjoying the slower pace of the winter season.
Follow a Trail to Local Discoveries
Panama City’s self-guided trails make it easy to explore the city based on your interests, with experiences that connect local history, art, food and outdoor adventures.
Art lovers can follow the Panama City Mural Trail to discover colorful large-scale artwork and playful micro murals tucked throughout the historic neighborhoods. History enthusiasts can explore free self-guided walking tours in Downtown, Historic St. Andrews and Glenwood, with historical narration available through the Otocast app.
For a taste of the local culinary scene, the Panama City Oyster Trail highlights restaurants serving fresh oysters prepared in a variety of ways, from raw and baked to creative local favorites. The Panama City Ale Trail connects local breweries, taprooms and craft beverage destinations across the city.
Nature lovers can also discover birdwatching opportunities along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, where coastal habitats attract a variety of resident and migratory birds throughout the cooler months. With so many ways to explore, you can choose a different trail each day or spend an afternoon discovering a few favorite stops.
Enjoy Waterfront Dining and Colorful Winter Sunsets
One of the best parts of winter in Panama City is ending the day with fresh seafood and a sunset over St. Andrews Bay. Cooler evenings and earlier sunsets make it easy to enjoy golden-hour views before or during dinner at one of the city’s waterfront restaurants.
In Historic St. Andrews, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill and Alice’s on Bayview offer waterfront settings where visitors can enjoy local flavors and views of the bay.
Downtown, Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar serves coastal-inspired dishes near the Panama City Marina, while Steam on 5 at Hotel Indigo offers rooftop views overlooking St. Andrews Bay. For a casual waterfront experience, Bayou Joe’s is another local favorite.
Panama City’s waterfront restaurants also offer opportunities to sample fresh Gulf seafood, including oysters, fish and other coastal specialties. And for visitors exploring by boat, several locations offer dock-and-dine experiences. Grab a table overlooking the water, enjoy a meal and watch the evening sky turn shades of orange, pink and purple across the bay.
Shop Local and Discover One-of-a-Kind Finds
Winter afternoons are perfect for browsing the locally owned shops and boutiques throughout Panama City’s historic neighborhoods.
Downtown, discover original artwork at Gallery of Art 850, shop for unique gifts and home décor at Jute & Palm and Accents Home Decor & Gifts, or create a custom hat at Hoyden Hat Co. For a hands-on experience, Atelier offers candle-making alongside its cocktail bar, making it a fun stop during an afternoon exploring the neighborhood.
In Historic St. Andrews, browse the boutiques and specialty shops along Beck Avenue, including The Trendy Side and Little Village. The neighborhood’s galleries, creative businesses and waterfront restaurants make it easy to spend a few hours exploring.
Local farmers markets in the historic neighborhoods offer additional opportunities to shop from local makers, artists and vendors throughout the season.
Spend a Sunny Winter Day Along the Bay
Winter in Panama City brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from peaceful waterfront parks to adventures on St. Andrews Bay.
For a relaxing afternoon, visit Oaks by the Bay Park, where shaded walking paths, historic landmarks and views of the water make it a favorite place to explore. Downtown’s waterfront promenade offers another scenic setting for a walk, while Carl Gray Park provides open green spaces and views of the bay.
Panama City’s bayside beaches are also worth exploring during the cooler months. Bring a picnic, relax by the water, look for shorebirds or enjoy the coastal scenery. For visitors ready to get out on the bay, winter can also offer opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and fishing when weather conditions allow. Local outfitters and charter captains provide a variety of ways to explore St. Andrews Bay, from guided fishing trips to scenic cruises.
With comfortable afternoons and plenty of sunshine, spending time outdoors is an easy way to enjoy the season.
Experience Panama City’s Arts and Culture Scene
Panama City’s creative community offers plenty to discover during the winter, with galleries, museums, live performances and hands-on experiences throughout the city.
The Panama City Center for the Arts hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops and community programming in Historic Downtown, while the Panama City Symphony brings concerts and musical experiences to venues around the city. Visitors can also explore local galleries and creative spaces where art becomes part of the experience.
For a closer look at the area’s history, visit the Bay County History Museum, Panama City Publishing Company Museum or Native Spirit Museum & Gallery. From an afternoon browsing galleries to an evening enjoying live music or theater, Panama City’s arts and culture scene offers plenty of ways to fill a winter day.
Plan Your Winter Getaway to Panama City, Florida
A winter getaway to Panama City can be as relaxed or adventure-filled as you’d like. Spend your mornings exploring historic neighborhoods, enjoy afternoons shopping or discovering local trails, and end the day with fresh seafood and a sunset overlooking St. Andrews Bay.
For visitors planning an extended stay, Panama City offers opportunities to settle into the local community, discover favorite neighborhood restaurants and enjoy seasonal events throughout the winter months.
Explore places to stay, browse upcoming events and start planning your winter escape along the bay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Panama City, Florida
Is Panama City, Florida, a good place to visit in winter?
Yes. Panama City offers mild coastal weather, historic neighborhoods, waterfront restaurants, seasonal festivals and outdoor activities throughout the winter. Visitors can enjoy shopping, local art, scenic walking trails and beautiful sunsets over St. Andrews Bay.
What is the weather like in Panama City, Florida, during winter?
Winter in Panama City generally brings mild afternoons and cooler mornings and evenings. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities throughout the season, with a light jacket or layers recommended for cooler days.
What are the best things to do in Panama City during winter?
Popular winter activities include exploring Historic Downtown and St. Andrews, following the Panama City Mural Trail, enjoying waterfront dining, browsing local boutiques, visiting museums and attending seasonal events. Visitors can also spend time at waterfront parks or book fishing and boating excursions when weather permits.
What winter festivals take place in Panama City, Florida?
Panama City hosts several annual celebrations during the winter months, including the Boat Parade of Lights in December and Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras in February. The FLLUXE Arts Festival typically takes place in early March, bringing street painting, live art and performances to Downtown Panama City.
Can you enjoy the beach in Panama City during winter?
Yes. Panama City’s bayside beaches and waterfront parks are great places for walking, picnicking, birdwatching and relaxing by the water during winter. Swimming and water activities depend on weather and water temperatures, but visitors can enjoy beautiful bay views throughout the season.
Are there free things to do in Panama City during winter?
Yes. Visitors can explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, discover public art along the Mural Trail, follow self-guided historic walking tours and spend time at waterfront parks. Local markets and some community festivals also offer free admission.
Where can I watch the sunset in Panama City during winter?
Popular sunset viewing locations include Oaks by the Bay Park in Historic St. Andrews, the Downtown waterfront near the Panama City Marina and waterfront restaurants overlooking St. Andrews Bay. Winter’s earlier sunsets make it easy to enjoy the views before or during dinner.
Is Panama City, Florida, a good destination for winter residents and snowbirds?
Panama City offers winter residents a welcoming coastal community with local events, walkable historic neighborhoods, dining, shopping and outdoor recreation. Extended stays give visitors time to explore neighborhood favorites, attend cultural events and enjoy the relaxed pace of life along St. Andrews Bay.
What should I pack for a winter trip to Panama City, Florida?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, casual clothing, sunglasses and layers for changing temperatures. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler mornings, evenings and waterfront activities. If you’re planning to spend time on the water, bring additional wind protection.
Where should I stay for a winter getaway in Panama City?
Visitors can choose from waterfront hotels in Downtown Panama City, familiar hotel brands throughout the city and other accommodations suited to longer visits. Staying near Downtown or Historic St. Andrews provides convenient access to local restaurants, shopping, parks and seasonal events.