Panama City Beach: My Three Days in Paradise
There’s something magical about stepping off a plane in Florida after a long journey via Atlanta, and Panama City Beach didn’t disappoint. As I arrived at the Embassy Suites by Hilton PCB resort that evening, the warm Gulf breeze immediately told me this was going to be a special trip. Or perhaps it was the cool cocktail waiting for me at the bar!
Day One: Hotel Inspections and Dolphin Dreams
My first morning began with a proper breakfast at the hotel before embarking on what I like to call “professional paradise” – hotel inspections! I had the delightful task of exploring three fantastic properties: the Embassy Suites by Hilton (where I was staying), the vibrant Calypso Beach Resort, and the sleek Hyatt Place. Each offered something unique, but I’ll save those details for individual reviews.
The afternoon, however, was pure magic. I found myself aboard a catamaran, cruising the emerald waters of the Gulf Coast. Watching dolphins playfully dance alongside our boat was absolutely breathtaking – there’s nothing quite like seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. We also had the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters around Shell Island, where the sand is so white it almost hurts your eyes.
As the sun began its descent, cocktails at Vue 55 at the Embassy Suites provided the perfect vantage point for those legendary Gulf Coast sunset views. The evening concluded with dinner at Firefly, where the local flavours gave me my first real taste of what Panama City Beach cuisine had to offer. It didn’t disappoint.
Day Two: Helicopter Thrills and Beach Club Bliss
Andy’s Flour Power started my second day with what I can only describe as an amazing breakfast menu – the kind of place where locals queue up because they know it’s worth the wait. I then headed to St Andrews State Park, one of Florida’s most pristine coastal areas. Whilst I spotted the glamping tents available there (mental note for future visits!), the real draw was the untouched beaches and nature trails.
More hotel inspections followed – the Holiday Inn Resort, Spring Hill Suites, and the delightfully themed Margaritaville Beach Cottages Resort. Each property offered different experiences, catering to various traveller preferences.
But then came the highlight that left me genuinely speechless: a helicopter ride over Panama City Beach. Honestly, there are no words to describe the sensation of soaring above those sugar-white beaches, watching the Gulf waters transition from turquoise to deep blue. It’s the sort of experience that makes you remember why you fell in love with travel in the first place.
The day concluded at Schooners, hands down the best local beach club I encountered. Picture this: your feet in the sand, cushions scattered around a crackling fire pit, and that famous Gulf sunset painting the sky in impossible shades of orange and pink. Pure perfection.
Day Three: Conservation, Crocodiles, and Southern Charm
My final morning began at Thomas’ Donuts – clearly a local favourite, judging by the queue! But what made this day truly special wasn’t just the excellent breakfast; it was the opportunity to give back through Stay It Forward, a local conservation initiative.
Volunteering to plant sea oats might not sound glamorous, but there’s something deeply satisfying about contributing to the preservation of these beautiful beaches. These hardy plants play a crucial role in holding soil and sand in place during Florida’s notorious extreme weather – it felt good to be part of something meaningful.
The afternoon brought another first: an airboat tour through the local wetlands. Meeting a baby crocodile up close was simultaneously thrilling and terrifying – exactly the sort of authentic experience that makes travel memories stick.
Lunch at Back Beach BBQ proved that some of the best food comes from the most unassuming roadside spots. The flavours were absolutely incredible – proper Southern cooking at its finest.
My Panama City Beach adventure concluded with an evening at Unwind, a Southern-style garden party that perfectly encapsulated the laid-back, welcoming spirit of this Gulf Coast gem.
Final Thoughts
Three days in Panama City Beach reminded me why I love what I do. This destination offers everything from luxury resort experiences to authentic local culture, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to meaningful conservation opportunities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, excitement in the form of helicopter rides and dolphin encounters, or simply want to experience genuine Southern hospitality, Panama City Beach delivers.
It’s the sort of place that surprises you – more diverse and engaging than you might expect, with layers of experiences waiting to be discovered. I’m already planning my return visit, and I suspect many of you will be too after reading this!
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