Bay Point Marriott Golf Club – An Overview

Posted on October 13, 2009 by Ellie Cominos

It’s that time of year again – there are no crowds, the temperatures are cooling off, and being outside on a clear, sunny day is utterly fabulous. Fall in Panama City Beach really is perfect for getting out and indulging in your favorite activity, whether that be walking, biking, swimming, running or golfing. Golfers especially have good reason to dust off the clubs and head to the course. Panama City Beach is home to a huge variety of exceptional golf courses, each with its own character and challenges, and most located in glorious settings. Today we are looking at the golf courses of Bay Point – an exclusive community nestled on a 1,100 acre wildlife sanctuary and overlooking the sparkling waters of St. Andrew’s Bay.

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.

Nicklaus Hole 5Boasting 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.

MeadowsThe 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 31st, 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.

Posted in Golf | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

PCB’s Best Sandwich: Voting Now Open

Posted on October 8, 2009 by Cebo Campbell

As you know, over the past two weeks we’ve been in search of Panama City Beach’s best sandwich. Based on your comments we sent out secret agent appetites to tastes scrumptious grinders all over our little town. The judgements are in and its down to 5 sandwiches. You vote and the winning sandwich will be showcased on SeePCBTV. Here are the nominees:

[polldaddy poll=2085685]

Voting will end October 14 and the winner will be named in next week’s newsletter. Happy Voting!
Voting is Closed: See the final winner by clicking here

Posted in Travel | Tagged , | 14 Comments

5 Weekend Alternatives to the PCB Seafood Wine and Music Festival

Posted on October 7, 2009 by Cebo Campbell

It goes without saying that the Panama City Beach Seafood Wine and Music Festival is going to be great fun for everyone across the beach. But, although, there will be great fun to be had, some of you will want to avoid the crowds and seek fun elsewhere. Here are 5 weekend alternative options that will have you and the family out of the house and having a great time.

1. Cirque Dreams Illuminations 7:30PM – Marina Civic Center

Cirque Dreams Illumination is a bustling city of generalities set in a landscape of dreams, towering buildings and infinite possibilities. Ablaze with lights and activities, objects and shapes transform into windows and stairways that lead beyond imagination.

City dwellers collect objects that are balanced beyond belief, linemen delicately walk wires, daredevils leap tall buildings and flyers redefine the risks of flight. Everyday occurrences are transformed into astounding feats performed by an international cast of acrobatic urbanites, flexible fanatics, world-class athletes, musicians and more. This action packed Cirque Dream is enhanced with over 100 inventive costumes and set in a fantastical cityscape of dimension and special effects. Cirque Dreams Illumination will surpass its jaw dropping, family friendly spectacle proclamation by the Los Angeles Times and exhilarate audiences of all ages.

For more information http://www.marinaciviccenter.com

2. Playhouse Disney Live: Mickey, Pooh, Handy Mandy and the Little Einstiens – 3-6PM – Marina Civic Center

Celebrate with your Playhouse Disney pals in “Playhouse Disney LIVE!”. In this brand new live show, you’re invited to the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse as Mickey plans a spectacular music party for all his friends. Pooh, Tigger and Darby spring into action to search for music in the Hundred Acre Wood, and Handy Manny and his team of tools find the perfect party beat. The Little Einsteins set off on a musical mission around the world to find a song for the party – with the help of Rocket, of course! Laugh, sing and play along, ’cause your favorite Playhouse Disney pals are live on stage, and you’re invited to join the party!

For more information http://www.marinaciviccenter.com

3. Scarecrow Festival

Pack up the entire family and head down to Historic St. Andrews Waterfont and design your own scarecrow.

The scarecrow festival starts Friday, October 9th with scarecrows displayed in Beck Avenue storefronts and public spaces. Stroll through our beautiful downtown and view the whimsical scarecrows that businesses, organization and individuals have created. Then, on October 24th, be sure to join us for the judging of the scarecrows and the many activities planned throughout our waterfront district from 11am – 6:30 pm.

4. Ghost Walk and History Tour – Saturday Oct 10

Camp Helen State Park and the Friends of Camp Helen invite everyone to the Fourth Annual Halloween Ghost Walk and History Tour. Camp Helen has a long and varied history, stories and spooky lore that will be shared with visitors while touring the newly restored park buildings.

Ghosts, Indians, Pirates and members of the Hicks and Comer families will be brought to life through story and song. Parking will be located at the Winn Dixie parking lot, 1 mile east of the park at the junction of US 98 and Alt US 98. Free shuttle buses will run all evening during the event. Parking within the park will be limited to handicapped visitors only. Please be aware that the ground is rough in some places. Flashlights are recommended and children are welcome and encouraged to wear costumes. Spooky treats of Shipwreck Cookies and Witch’s Cauldron Punch will be served to all who attend!

5.Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar Blues Concerts

Performing live this weekend at Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar, two amazing blues bands, the Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band and The Nouveaux Honkies.

Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band crosses the barriers between indie rock/punk rock kids, scenesters, and traditional blues fans. At a BDB show, one is likely to get a taste of a myriad of genres fraternizing under one immensely eclectic umbrella. Frequent touring has allowed the Reverend’s band to perfect their bluesy show, giving showgoers a full-on experience they’ll be talking about for years.

The Nouveaux Honkies is not your typical blues band. They are musical mayhem concealed by a smooth delivery. They are tattoos under an evening dress. They are a bandwagoned sound what will leave you cheering and speechless at the same time.

For more information and show times, check out www.willyspierbar.com

Posted in Arts and Culture, What to do | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Get in Tune with Nature at Camp Helen State Park

Posted on October 7, 2009 by Ellie Cominos

I hate to do this – but I’m going to let you in on one of Panama City Beach’s biggest secrets, and my own personal favorite spot. Camp Helen State Park lies just 9 miles (ten minutes by car) from most areas of the beach, and in my opinion, is one of Florida’s finest parks. Untouched by commercialism, Camp Helen offers the visitor a rustic yet idyllic setting in which to escape the crowds and enjoy the great outdoors.

What’s the History of Camp Helen?

History Camp HelenPrehistoric 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 4Camp 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?

Camp Helen 2The 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?

Camp Helen 3This Saturday, October 10th, Camp Helen invites you to its 4th 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.

Posted in Parks and Recreation, Uncategorized, What to do | Tagged , | Leave a comment

6 Places to Find Outdoor Adventure in the Panama City Beach Area

Posted on October 7, 2009 by Cebo Campbell

Econfina_Creek_Canoe_Trip_Pic_1If you’re on Panama City Beach, outdoor adventures aren’t hard to find. From various nearby springs and creeks to caverns and dolphin seeking, this little town really does have it all. Here is a list of 6 of the popular places in the area where you can have you very own outdoor adventure.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Home of one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, Wakulla Springs plays host to an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, deer, and birds. Daily guided riverboat tours provide a closer view of wildlife, and glass bottom boat tours are offered when the water is clear. Swimming is a popular activity during the hot summer months. A nature trail offers a leisurely walk along the upland wooded areas of the park. The Wakulla Springs Lodge was built in 1937 by financier Edward Ball and is open year-round. A full-service dining room overlooks the spring; lodge meeting facilities offer an excellent place for retreats. Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge is listed on the Natural Register of Historic Places and is designated as a National Natural Landmark.

Econfina Creek

Econfina is the canoeist’s dream. Econfina Creek offers the steepest gradient of any designated canoe trail in the state. Canoeists pass waterfalls, rock outcrops, log jams, riverbed springs and plentiful bird life as they approach State Road 20, where the Gainer Springs Complex enters from numerous vents, filling a deep clear pool surrounded by palms, cypress and mixed hardwoods.

Shell Island

Shell Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Panama City Beach area. Just across the water from St. Andrews State Park and only accessible by boat, Shell Island is a natural, undeveloped island which lies between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay in Bay County, Panama City Beach, FL. Shell Island’s Beautiful sand dunes stretch out over seven miles long and anywhere from two hundred yards to three-quarters of a mile across. Shell Island is home to one of the world’s highest concentrations of bottle-nosed dolphins. The island’s pristine beauty and abundant wildlife make it an enjoyable and exciting way to spend the day. It is filled with tremendous sand dunes, a fresh water swamp, acres of woods and sugar-white sands. Shell Island offers excellent snorkeling, fishing and secluded beaches.

Eden Gardens State Park

This historic park hosts the majestic 110-year-old Wesley House, built for the Wesley family, the owner family of one of the largest timber operations of the 1800s. Completely decorated with period furniture and accessories, the house provides a beautiful view of the reflecting pool, towering moss-draped oaks and serene waterways. The various rose gardens, koi ponds and nature walks are enough to inspire and thrill those looking for adventure.

Florida Caverns State Park

This is Florida’s only limestone cave that is available to the public. Florida Caverns takes its name from the beautiful Florida Cavern tour cave. Equal in beauty to such famous sites as Mammoth Cave and Carlsbad Caverns, the caves at Florida Caverns State Park contain dazzling formation of stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, columns, rimstones, flowstones and draperies. These fragile formations are composed of calcite, a mineral dissolved from limestone rock when surface water containing carbonic acid percolates through the rock into the caves. As this mineral-charged water encounters the air inside the caves, layers of calcite are deposited. The creation of these stunning formations often take tens of thousands of years, and even the slightest disturbance by humans can destroy these delicate natural wonders. Guided yours occur regularly with nature trails, swimming, canoeing, and fishing.

Diving

Panama City Beach is considered the “Wreck Capitol of the South,” second only to the Florida Key’s as Florida most popular dive destination in the state of Florida. And it’s not just hype; there are over 50 artificial reef diver’s can plunge to see, fifteen 35-foot-high bridge spans, each one 160 feet long and, just inland, there are several spectacular springs where the water is as clear as drinking water and the spring diving is world class. There area a number of adventurous dive locations you’ll love from the Grey Ghost, to the USS Strength and the world famous Empire Mica. For more info on diving locations check out this top 10 dive spots article.

Posted in Parks and Recreation | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment