Panama City Beach Area Information

Rediscover Panama City Beach as you explore 27 miles of the "World's Most Beautiful Beaches" along the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Geographical Description: Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach is located in the Northwest region of Florida. Panama City Beach averages an elevation of 13 feet above sea level. Located 98 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Panama City Beach is a part of Bay County. Bay County boasts an average population of 150,000. Approximately 9,500 of these citizens reside in Panama City Beach.

Climate:

Average water temperatures of 72 degrees combined with an average air temperature of 78 degrees creates mild subtropical temperatures for year-round enjoyment.

Population:

As of 2008 estimates: City of Panama City Beach 13,453; Unincorporated - approx. 35,000

Area History:

Bay County is an area rich in American history. The St. Andrew Bay area was home to many Indians before it was settled as a community in the 1800s. Pirates found the deep pockets of the Bay ideal to "lie in wait" for richly laden ships in route to Mexico or Spain. Legend has it that many a pirate buried his share of treasure at Spanish Shanty Point on Shell Island.

Another area teeming with history in Panama City Beach is St Andrews State Recreation Area. During World War II, it was part of the St. Andrews Sound Military Reservation. Circular cannon platforms are still in place near the jetties. Opened in 1951, the park now covers more than 1,200 acres.

The New Panama City Beach:

Airline Carriers

The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is conveniently located and an easy drive to Panama City Beach.

Southwest Airlines - Eight daily nonstop flights, serving Baltimore/Washington, Houston, Nashville and Orlando
Delta Airlines - 11 daily nonstop flights serving Atlanta and Memphis