7 Things for Couples to Enjoy in Panama City Beach

As we bid adieu to another sizzling Panama City Beach summer, the first signs of fall are starting to become apparent – seasonal businesses are slowly closing their doors for the year, football season is underway, and the promise of cooler temperatures lingers in the air. Fall in Panama City Beach is a glorious time. The beaches aren’t crowded and we can finally enjoy the great outdoors without seeking the closest air-conditioned building. This is also the time of year when Panama City Beach showcases many of its fantastic festivals and special events. With the kids and college students back in school, this is a perfect opportunity for couples to escape for a relaxing, romantic break and spend some quality time together. Here are some ways you and your special someone can make the most of your Panama City Beach fall getaway.

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.