1. Walk on the new Russell Fields Pier as the sun goes down. (or comes up!) The new Russell Fields Pier is located at the south entrance to Pier Park and is the perfect spot to stroll hand in hand as you take in the sweeping views of the Gulf. The pier re-opened in July after a year of construction and an investment of $8 million, and is now bigger and better than ever at 1500 feet in length and 17 feet in width. There’s a $2 entrance fee per person, but the quiet, scenic walk is most definitely worth it.

2. Get a Couples Massage and discover the meaning of true relaxation together. There’s no better way to soothe body and soul than having someone massage your cares away in a tranquil environment. Salon Baliage and Spa (12118 Panama City Beach Parkway) features a couples room beautifully decorated in eastern-inspired style furnishings – perfect for pampering you and your significant other. Each individual can choose a different massage, so it’s no problem if you love Swedish style massage but she’s always wanted to try a hot stone massage. Massages can be for either 60 or 90 minutes, and start at $70 per person. For an added touch, Salon Baliage can provide champagne and chocolates to the package. Call (850) 235 1985. 

3. Take a Sunset Cruise on The Lady Anderson. This dining yacht is one of Panama City Beach’s top attractions, and makes for a very memorable and romantic experience. Located on Grand Lagoon adjacent to the award winning Captain Anderson’s restaurant, the Lady Anderson offers a scenic cruise, live entertainment, and an excellent seafood, shrimp and prime rib buffet – all in one. Call (850) 234 5940 for reservations and more information.

4. Splurge on Some Jewelry and add some sparkle to your relationship. Panama City Beach is home to some fantastic jewelry stores where you can find the perfect piece for that perfect someone. Pier Park has a great variety of traditional stores, including Zales, Kay Jewelers and Carlyle & Co. If you are looking for something unique, try Maharaja’s in the Village of Grand Panama on Hutchinson Blvd. (850) 249 4050) Maharaja’s is a family owned business that offers a fine selection of breathtaking designer jewelry. Choose from earrings, watches, necklaces, rings, bracelets and more, with a style for every taste. Fish Tales Art Gallery (850) 234 1036) at Pier Park has a fantastic selection of beautiful hand-made crystal jewelry, and for something to remind you of the beach, check out Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts, also at Pier Park. (850) 234 6200.

5. Pack a Picnic and head to St. Andrew’s State Park – consistently voted one of the top 5 beaches in the country by Trip Advisor. St. Andrew’s State Park is located on the very east end of Thomas Drive, and offers visitors a peaceful escape, just minutes from all the action. Walk one of the two nature trails that wind through an abundance of coastal plants and provide a great opportunity for spotting wildlife and for bird-watching. Or stroll the shoreline until you find the perfect spot on the soft, white sands that look out over the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew’s Bay. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a romantic picnic in paradise – it doesn’t get any better.

6. Dine at Firefly Restaurant. Firefly Restaurant is a casual fine dining establishment located in the Edgewater Shopping Plaza. Step through the doors and you will feel as though you have been transported to a Mediterranean bistro, thanks to the graceful, warm ambience and romantic outdoor setting under a grand oak tree. Firefly serves up fresh, local seafood, succulent meat dishes, handmade pastas and imported specialties, all of which are beautifully presented. Try the mint pesto crusted Australian rack of lamb, the apple wood bacon wrapped shrimp, or the sautéed gulf grouper. Exquisite desserts and a fine wine list complement the experience. Located at 535 R. Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 249 3359 for more details.

7. Watch a Sunset from the Beach for the ultimate romantic experience. Panama City Beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets and it won’t cost you a penny. It’s not about simply watching the sun disappear into the ocean and listening for the “plop” sound. It’s about observing something so real, so natural, and so beautiful happening right before your eyes that you feel it stir your soul. The combination of the snow-white sand backdrop, the glassy expanse of the water, and the rich red sky is awe-inspiring to say the least, and is something you will remember forever.

2008 was the first year this exciting culinary and wine inspired event took place, and this year promises to be even better, with no less than seven different mini-events making up the glorious celebration overall. In addition to mouth-watering regional cuisine and impressive wine tastings, Taste of THE Beach will feature some incredible live music and the chance to celebrate our spectacular destination in style. All proceeds are going to Emerald Coast children’s charities, so you can indulge and still feel good about it! Here’s a rundown of what’s happening.

Thursday, November 5^th at 5:00 pm – Taste of the Destin Harbor.

The kick-off event will be held at the Emerald Grande Resort in Destin overlooking the beautiful Destin harbor. Between 5:00 and 8:00 pm, guests can enjoy delicious cuisine from local restaurants (including Louisiana Lagniappe, Legendary Yacht Club and The Back Porch), sample fine wines, and listen to live music provided by Chuck Lawson. There will be a firework display by Harbor Walk Village, and there’s even a 2 night stay at the luxurious Emerald Grande up for grabs! The wines to be poured are: Veuve Clicquot, Caymus Conundrum, Ferrari Carano Tresor, Sterling Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and BV Tapestry. Cost is $50.00 per person –  SAVE $15.00 by using the special promo code destinharbor02. (Promo code for this kick-off event only.)

Friday, November 6^th at 5:30 pm – Taste of Bay Wine and Food Experience.

Enjoy the best of what Bay County has to offer at this Pier Park, Panama City Beach event. Sip exceptional wines and sample appetizing cuisine prepared by local restaurants in Panama City Beach. Enjoy the aromas and flavors while strolling outdoors directly across from the Gulf and alongside the many shops and boutiques at Pier Park. Wines to be poured are: Gaja, Mount Veeder, Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay and Argyle. Tickets are $50.00 per person –  SAVE $15.00 by using the special promo code pierpark06. (Promo code for this event only.)

Friday, November 6^th at 6:00 pm – Al Fresco Reserve Tasting in Ruskin Place.

Amid the art galleries of Ruskin Place in gorgeous Seaside, guests will taste a range of highly allocated and reserve wines, dine on sushi and hors d’oeuvres prepared by noted local restaurateur and Chef Jim Shirley, and enjoy live chamber music. Wines to be poured are: BV Georges de Latour, Beringer Private Reserve, Rodney Strong Symmetry and Veuve Clicquot. Tickets are $145.00 per person.

Saturday, November 7^th at 1:00 pm – Seeing Red Wine Festival.

The Seeing Red Wine Festival is one of the largest events during Taste of THE Beach. This picnic-style festival will take over the streets of Seaside, offering dozens of domestic and international red wines to sample while live music entertains. Wines to be poured are: Moet Imperial, Caymus, Argyle Nuthouse Pinot Noir and Mount Veeder. Tickets are $120.00 per person.

Saturday, November 7^th at 6:30 pm – Winemaker and Shakers.

Happening at the following fine restaurants:

Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, 4000 S Sandestin Blvd, Destin
FireFly Restaurant, 535 Beckrich Road, Panama City Beach
Restaurant Fire, 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach
Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 15000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin
Finz Beachside Grill, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin
Beachwalk at Henderson Park Inn, 2700 Scenic Highway 98 East, Destin

Tickets are $125.00 per person at each location.

Sunday, November 8^th at 10:00 am – THE Beach Champagne Brunch.

Between the hours of 10:00 am and 1:00 pm, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa will be holding THE Beach Champagne Brunch. Wines to be poured are: Veuve Clicquot, Roederer Estate, Moet Imperial and Ruinart. Tickets are $35.00 per person.

Sunday, November 8^th at 3:00 pm – Taste of The Beach and Charity Auction.

Taste of THE Beach wraps up with a silent auction to benefit 11 local children’s charities including Sacred Heart Foundation, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Children in Crisis and Ronald McDonald House. Guests have the opportunity to bid on fantastic prizes donated from the community and can enjoy cocktails and appetizers. Wines to be poured are: Caymus Special Selection, BV Georges de Latour, Robert Mondavi, Reserve Cabernet, Krug Champagne and Ruinart. Tickets are $35.00 per person.

Telluride MountainFilm at WaterColor

In its ninth year, WaterColor’s outdoor MountainFilm Festival celebrates the best in independent thinking – where adventure is celebrated, history is important, and people are passionate about what they believe. It attracts an audience seeking a culturally rich, conversation-inspiring experience in which to discuss films, share ideas and be inspired, all under a dramatic canopy of stars. By being a part of the “Taste of THE Beach,” participants will have the opportunity to pair incredible wines with incredible films in an incredible setting, and present an even greater event for all to enjoy. Wines to be poured are: Coppola Sofia Blanc De Blanc, Coppola Chardonnay Directors, Coppola Pinot Noir Directors and Coppola Merlot Directors.

Showtimes are 7-10 pm and gates open at 6 pm. Cost is $30.00 per person for one night or $50.00 per person for two nights.

Photos Courtesy of THE Beach.

Whether you are an avid golfer or just starting out, Bay Point is by far one of the best places to play golf in Panama City Beach. Bay Point features two of the most spectacular 18-hole courses along the Emerald Coast, plus a peaceful and serene atmosphere in which to play.

Boasting over 7,000 yards, the Nicklaus Course is the only Nicklaus Design golf course in Northwest Florida. Prior to being a Nicklaus course, this award winning course was known as Lagoon Legends, and was one of the most challenging courses in North America. In 2004, renovations began, and on September 17, 2005, the Nicklaus course was opened to wonderful reviews. The course has a slope rating of 143 and a course rating of 75.3, and plays along the natural terrain of majestic scrub oaks, towering Florida pine trees, sandy-white waste areas and salt-water marshes. This is a challenging course – the layout features “illusionary” bunkers that are strategically placed to tempt golfers through a “risk/reward” scenario, plus uncharacteristic elevation changes that are unique to Northwest Florida. Look out for signature hole No. 5, offering panoramic views of Grand Lagoon and St. Andrews Bay.

The Meadows Course provides a classic country club atmosphere. Designed by Willard C. Byrd, the course opened in 1973 and was renovated in 2004 by Nicklaus design. The course stretches for a whopping 6,913 yards – testing even the best golfer’s distance. Stunning and well manicured, the course rating is 73.3 and it has a slope rating of 126. The Meadows also features occasionally tight fairways plus numerous bunkers and lakes, to provide an ever-changing set of challenges.

The Rates are as follows and are valid through December 31^st, 2009:

Meadows Golf Course – Morning Rate $69, Midday Rate $59

Nicklaus Golf Course – Morning Rate $109, Midday Rate $99

Reservations are subject to availability and may be made 30 days in advance.  To book a tee time, call (850) 235 6950.

There are also many in-season and off-season specials throughout the year. Make sure to frequently visit the official website for the latest specials and promotions. Don’t forget to check out the Stay and Play packages, and combine your premium golf experience with a getaway at the award winning Marriott Bay Point Golf Resort & Spa.

Bay Point Resort Golf Club is located at 4701 Bay Point Road, Panama City Beach. For more details, call (850) 235 6950.

What’s the History of Camp Helen?

Prehistoric middens (trash heaps) and mounds have been found within the park, suggesting humans have been in the area for approximately 400 years. Camp Helen State Park was originally known as Inlet Beach to early European settlers and later to developers. The area around Phillips Inlet was initially developed for recreational opportunities in the early 1920’s, with a lodge and associated buildings being added to the property in the 1940’s. Some of these buildings can still be seen today, and give an insight into tourist life along the Gulf Coast back in the day. From 1945 all the way to 1987, Avondale Textile Mills of Sylacauga, Alabama operated Camp Helen as a resort for vacationing employees.
Thanks to the efforts of the local community, Gulf Coast Community College, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Camp Helen was acquired by the State of Florida in 1994 under the Conservation and Recreational Lands Programs, and today offers visitors a first-class state park.

Where Exactly Is It?

Camp Helen State Park is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway, just west of the Phillips Inlet Bridge on the Bay County and Walton County line. The park is bordered on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico, Phillips Inlet, and Lake Powell, which is one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida. The great thing about Camp Helen is that it has it all – wooded nature trails, tranquil lake scenery, and an expansive, open white-sand beach. When you’re here, you feel like you are one with the outdoors, thanks to the natural beauty that surrounds you at every turn, and the peace and quiet that is so hard to find in the heart of Panama City Beach.

What Can I Do There?

The opportunities for outdoor recreation are unlimited at Camp Helen State Park. Wildlife viewing is extremely popular, as the three different water bodies have created a diverse habitat for wildlife that includes rare shorebirds and Bald Eagles. Camp Helen is a great fishing spot for both fresh and saltwater species, and the park provides numerous nature trails for hiking. Visit the lodge and relax in the rocking chairs overlooking Lake Powell, or head to the beach for swimming, beachcombing, tanning or boating. Camp Helen State Park is open from 8:00 am until sundown, 365 days a year. The admission fee is $4.00 per vehicle with a maximum of 8 passengers, or $2.00 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, or passengers in a vehicle with a holder of an annual individual entrance pass.

What Else is Happening at Camp Helen State Park?

This Saturday, October 10^th, Camp Helen invites you to its 4^th annual Ghost Walk and History Tour. Hear scary stories, learn about the Lake Powell Sea Monster, laugh with pirates, and maybe even maybe see a ghost!  It will be a wonderful evening of continuous storytelling and historic re-enactment, and is suitable for all ages, including kids. The event is hosted by the Friends of Camp Helen and proceeds from the event will be used for the renovation and preservation of the park. Costumes are encouraged and flashlights are recommended. Event starts at 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm, and tickets are $5.00 for adults and $3 for children under 12 years of age.

For those who have some spare time on their hands and would like to give back to the community, Camp Helen State Park always welcomes volunteers. A volunteer can do many things, including greeting visitors, conducting tours, helping Park Rangers remove exotic plants or simply maintaining the natural beauty of the beach, waterways or trails. If you are interested, stop by on any Thursday morning about 9:00 am or pick up an application in the visitor center.

Arriving at Sterling Beach, you will soon realize that this is not your run-of-the-mill condo resort. You will notice small touches of luxury even as you pull into the parking lot, and that remain consistent throughout the property. Everything looks and feels new and polished, and the atmosphere is very welcoming. Once you check in, the accommodations themselves will blow you away. Sterling Beach features four different types of condominiums as follows:

• Captiva – 2 Bedrooms/2 Full Bathrooms at 1,706 square feet.
• Biscayne – 3 Bedrooms/2 Full Bathrooms at 1,897 square feet.
• Dauphine – 3 Bedrooms/3 Full Bathrooms at 2,518 square feet.
• Amelia – 4 Bedrooms/4 Full Bathrooms at 2,930 square feet.

Regardless of your floor plan, each and every unit boasts the same upscale amenities and beautiful décor. There are no dated or worn out furnishings in sight, it’s all modern and utterly gorgeous, with more than enough space for everyone to be comfortable and feel at home. Some units offer floor to ceiling glass windows that spectacularly showcase the ocean below, and all units feature extra large private balconies – perfect for relaxing, dining or simply taking in the sunset. Other amenities include free unlimited DVD rentals, free high speed internet access, a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, linens and towels, Wolfgang Puck coffee, and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. There’s no better way to stay – you have the luxuries and conveniences of a high-end hotel, with all the comfort and space of home.

Sterling Beach resort itself is the perfect vacation destination for families, groups, couples or snowbirds. The 48 seat private movie theater is ideal for those nights when you don’t want to leave the resort but fancy just getting out of the room for a while. Enjoy a movie, take a walk on the beach after dark, and finish with dessert on the balcony for a memorable evening. During the day, guests can lounge by the 4000 square foot free-form pool or spend time on the 300 feet of private beach. (Complimentary beach chairs in season.) There’s also a grill area, and children’s activities available in season. Need to keep up your workout regimen on vacation? Sterling Beach features a state-of-the-art fitness center and a gulf-front hot tub for soothing those muscles post-work out.

Snowbirds take note! Choose Sterling Beach for your Panama City Beach getaway and enjoy rates starting from under $50 per night. Plus: welcome gift upon check-in, planned activities, games, outings and prizes, discount coupons to local restaurants and attractions, monthly donut and coffee social, free unlimited DVD rentals along with free local and long distance calls to Canada!  Rates subject to  availability and based on a 28 night minimum.

Sterling Beach Resort is located at 6627 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 236 9595 for more details.

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There are many reasons Tootsie’s has climbed higher and higher towards the top of the Panama City Beach best nightlife list. One of the first things you’ll notice as you walk in is that the place exudes friendliness – there’s no pretentiousness, no attitude, just a down-home, what you see is what you get vibe. People show up complete with cowboy hat and dancing shoes, ready to have a great time and enjoy the music. Unlike its cozy Nashville counterpart, Tootsie’s in Panama City Beach is spacious, with plenty of room inside to dance and mingle, plus there is also a large outdoor area at the front of the building where you can sit and relax with a drink, and watch the lively goings-on at Pier Park. Aside from the atmosphere, another big draw to Tootsie’s is the fantastic live music. There are many places in town that feature live entertainment, but Tootsie’s takes it to a whole new level. Talented musicians from Nashville take the stage each and every night and wow the audience with their exciting renditions of popular country and southern rock tunes that will have you on your feet in no time. Band members are totally in sync with each other and allow for plenty of audience interaction, including taking requests and asking everyone to sing along. It’s a good time for all, and there’s nowhere else like it in the area.

Tootsie’s is more than just a hot nightspot. Opening at 11:00 am daily, the music actually begins early, with a live performer playing throughout the day. Families can stop by and enjoy some great food and a cool drink or friends can pop in for after work cocktails and bar snacks – the music doesn’t stop. Tootsie’s really comes alive at night, but it’s also a wonderful and convenient stop during the day, especially if you are already indulging in some Pier Park retail therapy. If you are a fan of country music, or even if you’re not, you should definitely check Tootsie’s out. (I grew up in England where country music is non-existent, and I love Tootsie’s). It’s one of the best things to ever happen to Panama City Beach nightlife, and it’s here to stay. Bonus – you never know who you might see!

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is located at 700 S. Pier Park Drive, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 236 3459 for more details.

1. Saltwater Grill. The former home of Panama City Brewery, Saltwater Grill has boasted a unique dining experience since the restaurant opened in 2002. A 25,000 gallon saltwater aquarium provides a breathtaking backdrop to your meal, featuring a tropical reef filled with colorful and exotic sea life. In addition to this dazzling marine display, Saltwater Grill is also famous for its succulent seafood and choice hand-cut steaks. Try the black and white tuna – sesame seared Ahi tuna over bok choy and Napa cabbage slaw with a ginger soy glaze and wasabi, or perhaps a hickory grilled steak cooked to perfection. As a complement to your meal, diners can also enjoy the music of Michael Rorah as he performs piano favorites. (Tuesdays through Saturdays.) Located at 11040 Middle Beach Road, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 230 2739 for more details.
2. Caliza Restaurant at Alys Beach. If you are looking for a truly breathtaking dining experience, look no further than Caliza’s. Just a little west of Panama City Beach, Caliza Restaurant at Alys Beach is the newest place to dine on scenic 30A. Looking like it belongs on Miami’s South Beach or within a ritzy Californian hotel, the restaurant features open air dining poolside and superb cuisine meticulously prepared by Chef Olivier Gaupin. Choose from handmade fresh pastas, grilled steak specialties, fresh seafood including Florida lobster, and more. Located at 23 Nonesuch Way, Alys Beach. Call (850) 213 5700 for more details.
3. Captain Anderson’s Waterfront Restaurant & Market. A Panama City Beach favorite, Captain Anderson’s has been serving seafood specialties for over 40 years, and boasts beautiful views of Grand Lagoon coupled with a spectacular menu that keeps loyal customers coming back year after year. This award-winning restaurant has been named among America’s top 50 restaurants and was inducted into the Restaurant Hall of Fame in 2005. Menu selections include She Crab Pie – catch of the day and blue crab meat baked in a pastry puff and served with she crab sauce, and certified Angus beef grilled churrasco steak – an 8 oz. signature steak seasoned tenderloin Nicaraguan cut with grilled Bermuda onions. Located at 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 234 2225 for more details.
4. Destin Chops. Located in stylish Rosemary Beach, Destin Chops is 30A’s premier steakhouse with a contemporary twist. A sleek and cosmopolitan atmosphere features backlit liquor bottles illuminated in blues, greens and oranges, plush leather seating, and dim lighting throughout. The extensive international wine collection is encased in a twenty foot zebra wood wine wall, and the menu offers fine steakhouse fare, exotic sushi, Gulf seafood and Maine lobster. Top off your meal with a port or brandy and a decadent dessert, or relax in the chic cocktail bar. Destin Chops is located at 10343 East Highway 30A, Seacrest Beach. Call (850) 231 4050 for more details.
5. Boars Head Restaurant & Tavern. This casual fine dining restaurant is a Florida Trend Top 500 restaurant and has been popular with Panama City Beach visitors and locals alike for over 30 years. Specializing in fresh gulf seafood and prime rib, The Boars Head is both elegant and rustic, offering diners a unique and relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy the fantastic food, wines and live music. Sample the world-class prime rib or New York Strip steak, the signature fried lobster, or perhaps the excellent yellow fin tuna – the best in the area. The Boars Head Restaurant and Tavern is located at 17290 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 234 6628 for more details.
6. Firefly Restaurant. Firefly Restaurant is a casual fine dining establishment located in the Edgewater Shopping Plaza. Step through the doors and you will feel as though you have been transported to a Mediterranean bistro, thanks to the graceful, warm ambience and romantic outdoor setting under a grand oak tree. Firefly serves up fresh, local seafood, succulent meat dishes, handmade pastas and imported specialties, all of which are beautifully presented. Try the mint pesto crusted Australian rack of lamb, the apple wood bacon wrapped shrimp, or the sautéed gulf grouper. Exquisite desserts and a fine wine list complement the experience. Located at 535 R. Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 249 3359 for more details.
7. Bud & Alley’s. To experience this Open Table.com Diner’s Choice 2009 Winner, you’ll need to drive the 15 minutes or so to beautiful Seaside – but it’s definitely worth it. Bud & Alley’s is South Walton’s longest established restaurant, and boasts a stunning setting in the dunes overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Bud & Alley’s has garnered numerous awards including Florida Trend Magazines Golden Spoon Award designating the eatery as one of the top 20 restaurants in Florida, as well as receiving a five star designation from the Tallahassee Democrat and annually winning Wine Spectator Magazines Award of Excellence. Entrees include Bud & Alley’s crab cakes served with sugar snaps, mashed potatoes and lemon butter, and grilled sesame crusted tuna with baby bok choy, Napa cabbage, soba noodles and a roasted red pepper coulis. Located at 2236 East Highway 30A, Seaside. Call (850) 231 5900 for more details.

One (of the many) reasons Panama City Beach is such an incredible vacation destination is that there’s a place to stay for every budget. Instead of just your average hotel room, vacationers to Panama City Beach can choose between two primary accommodation options – a hotel or a condominium. Both offer a comfortable experience – Origin at Seahaven combines the two and offers something really special.

Located on the west end of Panama City Beach about a half mile from Pier Park, Origin at Seahaven is the crowning jewel of the highly anticipated “Towne of Seahaven”. This 52 acre development is already coming to life thanks in part to its three main properties and beachfront restaurant: Origin at Seahaven, Seahaven Beach Hotel, America’s Best Value Inn, and the popular Sharkey’s Beachfront Restaurant. When completed, The Towne of Seahaven will feature quaint streets lined with fine dining restaurants, eclectic shopping and exciting nightlife.

While the overall project continues to take shape, Origin has well and truly come into its own. Although the property only opened in November, 2007, it is fast becoming a Panama City Beach favorite. Beautiful South Seas inspired décor and wallet-friendly rates make it a great choice for any Panama City Beach getaway.

GUEST ROOMS

Origin at Seahaven consists of 304 rentable units over 17 floors. Although the property is not ocean front (it’s actually directly across the street) the views of the ocean from most units are breathtaking.  Equally impressive are the rooms themselves. These are the kind of hotel rooms that you gasp in delight upon entering – utterly gorgeous and spacious beyond words.  You won’t find any signs of disrepair, mildew on the shower curtain or less than desirable bedding here. Everything is new, clean and welcoming. Neutral, earthy tones complement contemporary furnishings including a flat screen TV in all units. Rooms start from a basic studio that sleeps two to a 4 bedroom unit that sleeps up to 10. Whatever your room type, you’ll enjoy a whole host of amenities that you wouldn’t find in your average hotel room, including a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops, wireless internet access, cookware, blender, and much more. Even the studios come complete with a mini-fridge, microwave, toaster and coffee maker. It’s all there for your convenience, right down to the wine glasses and silverware.  I checked out a 4 bedroom unit and was amazed at the sheer size of the place – I could have easily got lost in there! The balcony was without a doubt the largest I had ever seen, and I’ve seen a LOT of hotel rooms. I was beyond impressed and truthfully a little reluctant to go hand the key back to the front desk and return to my humble apartment. These are condominium style units at hotel prices, where guests will instantly feel at home.

HOTEL AMENITIES

The great thing about Origin at Seahaven is that everything you would need on vacation is right here, yet it’s not all centralized and subsequently overcrowded. You’ve got Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar directly across the street, a kid’s playground actually on the beach behind Sharky’s, a pool deck on the 4^th floor, and a movie theater with stadium seating for 24 on the ground floor. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness center for those with extra energy to burn, and a heated whirlpool for those who are looking for something a little less active. The pool is spacious, crystal-clear, and offers stunning oceanfront views – the stuff vacation brochures are made of. There’s also large stainless steel grills located on the pool deck that are perfect for a family barbecue with a view. Feel like spending some time on the beach? No problem – there’s private beach access conveniently located a crosswalk away.

Origin at Seahaven is without a doubt one of Panama City Beach’s top choices when it comes to your home away from home. It’s stylish and then some. The fact that the property doesn’t actually sit on the beach ensures awesome year-round rates that are hard to beat. Even without a gulf-front address, you’d be hard pushed to get any closer to the beach.

Origin at Seahaven is located at 15100 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL 32413. For more information or for reservations please call (850) 636-8550.

Hombre Golf Club has a great location and is convenient to all of Panama City Beach. The club is situated on Panama City Beach Parkway (Back Beach Road) just minutes from Pier Park and from most condos and hotels on Front Beach Road. Even those coming from Panama City Beach’s east side and Thomas Drive area will find themselves getting ready to take that first swing within 15 minutes.

The three courses that make up Hombre Golf Club are some of the most beautiful you will see anywhere. Meticulously manicured to PGA specifications throughout the year, Hombre is nestled amidst wetlands, marshes, lakes and preserves, and is beautifully framed with a stunning assortment of palms, pines and azaleas. One of the most picturesque holes is The Ugly’s #2, a 166-yard, par 3, which is a replica of hole #16 at Augusta National.

Hombre Golf Club offers superb facilities both on and off the courses. The Hombre Golf Shop provides competitively priced equipment and apparel including brands such as Titleist, Adidas, Callaway, Ashworth, Tehama, Cutter & Buck and Under Armour.  The Siesta Bar & Grill offers spectacular panoramic views over the golf course. Choose from delicious specialties such as the hearty “Hombre Omelet”, the “Bogey Burger” or the “Birdie on the Green”. Grab a “Tee Time Starter Sandwich” for when you are on the tee and hunger strikes! Whether you are playing on one of the picturesque golf courses, shopping, dining, or even just walking, you’ll find Hombre and all its natural beauty a very soothing place to be.

Hombre Golf Club is located at 120 Coyote Pass, Panama City Beach, 32407. Call (850) 234 3673 for rates and information.

1. Don’t Miss The Seafood, Wine & Music Festival.

Starting on October 9^th and ending on October 11^th, Panama City Beach’s premier festival is back, and promises to the best yet! There will be incredible live performances by big names such as Julianne Hough, John Anderson, Grand Funk Railroad, and the legendary Styx. Local chefs from some of Panama City Beach’s top restaurants will exhibit their signature dishes, and guests will have the opportunity to sample the cuisine in addition to many fine wines. There will be art, craft and antique vendors, plus the Emerald Coast Cruzin’ car show. Book discounted tickets in advance at the official website.

2. Visit Camp Helen State Park.

For an idyllic day at the beach, Camp Helen State Park is a breath of fresh air – literally. Situated just west of Carillon Beach, Camp Helen State Park is bordered on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell– one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida. The beach itself is a sweeping expanse of soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for walking, swimming, fishing, or just relaxing. There are nature trails throughout the park and rocking chairs at the lodge – perfect for gazing out at beautiful Lake Powell. Even during the summer months Camp Helen stays quiet – visit in the fall and you may just have the whole place to yourself.

3. Dine at Firefly Restaurant.

Looking for somewhere to enjoy an intimate dinner for two? Firefly Restaurant is a casual fine dining establishment located in the Edgewater Shopping Plaza. Step through the doors and you will feel as though you have been transported to a Mediterranean bistro, thanks to the graceful, warm ambience and romantic outdoor setting under a grand oak tree. Firefly serves up fresh, local seafood, succulent meat dishes, handmade pastas and imported specialties, all of which are beautifully presented. Try the mint pesto crusted Australian rack of lamb, the apple wood bacon wrapped shrimp, or the sautéed gulf grouper. Exquisite desserts and a fine wine list complement the experience.

4. Rent a Pontoon Boat.

Simple to operate, a pontoon boat will give you the freedom to get out on the open water and see a whole new side of Panama City Beach. Pack a picnic, and head out to Shell Island, an undeveloped natural island where you can swim, collect shells and stroll the powder-soft sands hand in hand. Go at your own pace, and enjoy the warm breezes and the fresh sea air on your own private cruise for two. Call Adventures at Sea for more details on renting a pontoon boat at (850) 235 0009. The only others you may encounter will be the friendly dolphins that stop by your boat to say hello.

5. Indulge in Some Retail Therapy.

Whatever you have on your shopping list, Panama City Beach is not short on places to find exactly what you need. (And plenty of what you don’t!). Pier Park is a shopping Mecca with something for everyone, but there are a multitude of smaller boutique stores, galleries and beach inspired stores that are most definitely worth checking out. In historic downtown Panama City, visit renowned Florida artist Paul Brent’s lovely gallery for a beautiful selection of watercolors of coastal life and nature. Back on the beach, Liz and Jane’s clothes is located at 15616 Front Beach Road, and offers a selection of casual, vibrant apparel, accessories and jewelry for women. Liz and Jane are two local women who have been creating these popular Panama City Beach fashions since 1992. Or, if you’re planning to hit the beach, try Beach Scene at 10059 Hutchinson Blvd where you can find literally thousands of swimsuits, plus beach apparel, gifts and souvenirs.

6. Play a Round of Golf.

Panama City Beach is home to many spectacular golf courses, each offering its own unique attributes and beautiful setting. The elegant community of Bay Point features the Meadows, a country club style course, and the Nicklaus course, the first Nicklaus design course in northwest Florida. On the west end of Panama City Beach Parkway within the Wild Heron community, the Shark’s Tooth course was designed by Greg Norman and sits overlooking the shores of Lake Powell. Hombre Golf Club features three courses – the good, the bad and the ugly, and hosts the annual PGA qualifying school. These, plus the many other additional golf courses throughout the destination make Panama City Beach a golfer’s paradise, and the perfect spot to perfect your game in style.

7. Set Sail on a Dining Cruise

The Lady Anderson dining yacht is one of Panama City Beach’s top attractions, and makes for a very memorable and romantic experience. Located on Grand Lagoon adjacent to the award winning Captain Anderson’s restaurant, the Lady Anderson offers a scenic cruise, live entertainment, and an excellent seafood, shrimp and prime rib buffet – all in one. Choose from a sunset dinner dance cruise, a country comedy dinner cruise, a gospel music dinner cruise and more. Call (850) 234 5940 for reservations and more information.