Beaches in Panama City Beach

When it comes to planning the perfect beach day, the hardest part is not finding the beach. It is choosing which one to visit. With more than 100 public beach access points and two stunning state parks, Panama City Beach offers endless ways to enjoy the coast. Whether you are searching for a lively beach with restaurants and activities or a peaceful stretch of sand to unwind, there is a spot for every vibe. Each access point has its own personality, making it easy for locals and first time visitors alike to find a favorite. Here is a look at some of the most popular beach access points in Panama City Beach, each loved for its beauty, character, and coastal charm.

A perfect place to start your beach day, Beach Access Point 1 on Spyglass Drive offers a quiet and laid back coastal experience. As the easternmost public access in Panama City Beach, Spyglass is tucked among beachfront homes, vacation rentals, and condominiums, creating a peaceful setting just south of Thomas Drive. While there is no large public parking lot at this access point, the walkover provides easy beach entry for nearby visitors. For those wanting a bit more flexibility, Beach Access Points 2 and 3 are located just west along Spyglass Drive, each with its own boardwalk and equally scenic views of the Gulf.

Located next to Public Beach Access 4, Schooners is a true Panama City Beach classic. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, beachfront dining, and fresh seafood, it is the kind of place where a beach day easily turns into an all day experience. Visitors can enjoy volleyball on the sand, relax by the water, or grab a cold drink and a casual meal with a view. Whether you are stopping by for a burger, oysters, or simply soaking in the lively beach energy, Schooners continues to be a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors.

Public Beach Accesses 56, 57, and 58

Located on the west side of the City Pier near Pier Park, Dog Beach offers a fun and unique way to enjoy Panama City Beach with your four legged companions. This designated pet friendly area stretches about 400 feet along the shoreline, giving dogs the chance to run, splash, and socialize in the sand and surf. While pets must remain supervised, Dog Beach provides a welcoming space where dogs and their owners can enjoy the coast together. It is a favorite for locals and visitors looking to share their beach day with the entire family.

Public Beach Access 87

Every beachgoer has a favorite spot, and Beach Access 87 has inspired a loyal following known as the 87’ers. This community driven group, made up largely of locals, has turned their love for this access point into a social media sensation. Their Facebook page highlights beautiful sunsets, beach moments, and a shared appreciation for this stretch of shoreline. Whether it is the views, the vibe, or the sense of community, Beach Access 87 has become more than just a beach. It is a tradition. Who knows, your favorite access point might be next.

City Pier Public Beach Accesses 53 through 58

County Pier not numbered

Panama City Beach is home to two iconic piers that offer easy beach access, great parking, and unforgettable views. The Russell Fields Pier, often called the City Pier, sits directly across from Pier Park along Front Beach Road. The M.B. Miller Pier, also known as the County Pier, is located about three miles east near Shipwreck Island. Both piers extend 1,500 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and are popular spots for sightseeing, fishing, and sunset views. Separate fees apply for walking the pier or fishing, but whether you are casting a line or just enjoying the scenery, both piers deliver a classic Panama City Beach experience.

Located on Thomas Drive, Richard Seltzer Park is a nearly five acre beachfront park that combines convenience with comfort. With free parking, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and outdoor showers, it is easy to settle in for a full day by the water. Visitors love the park’s direct beach access and its close proximity to nearby restaurants and shops, all just a short crosswalk away. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, this park is a favorite for those who want both relaxation and easy access to local amenities.

One of Panama City Beach’s most beloved natural treasures, St. Andrews State Park offers a wide variety of beach experiences across more than one and a half miles of shoreline. Located on a peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon, the park features everything from wide Gulf side beaches to calm waters near the jetties, often called the Kiddie Pool. Visitors can also enjoy fishing at Deepwater Point, boating, paddle sports, scenic trails, and camping. The park entry fee is eight dollars per vehicle, making it a great value for a full day immersed in natural Florida beauty.

At the far western edge of Panama City Beach, beyond Public Beach Access 98, Camp Helen State Park offers a quiet escape filled with history and natural scenery. After parking in the main lot, visitors take a scenic half mile walk past a historic lodge, the colorful Rainbow Cottages, and along a peaceful trail that winds through dunes and beside Lake Powell. The path leads to a secluded stretch of beach that feels worlds away from the busier areas of PCB. Camp Helen is perfect for those looking to slow down, explore, and experience a more tranquil side of the coast.

Whether you are chasing sunrise walks, family friendly fun, or a quiet place to unwind, Panama City Beach has a stretch of sand waiting just for you. With so many unique access points and parks to explore, every beach day can feel like a new adventure. Wherever you choose to set up your chairs, we hope you take time to soak in the views, enjoy the Gulf breeze, and make unforgettable memories along the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.