Your Guide to Panama City Beach IRONMAN Florida

Every fall, Panama City Beach transforms into a playground for endurance, grit, and pure determination. The longest-running full IRONMAN in North America returns on Saturday, November 1, 2025, bringing together athletes from around the globe to tackle one of the sport’s most scenic and challenging courses.

But it’s more than just a race. It’s a full-on celebration of the human spirit, coastal beauty, and the roar of community support. If you’re thinking of heading here, whether to compete or to cheer, this is everything you need to know to make the weekend unforgettable.

What to Expect on Race Day

The swim begins with a 2.4-mile journey through the Gulf. Athletes make two loops around Russell-Fields Pier, with a short beach run in between, while spectators watch from the sand as the sun rises over the water. It’s one of the most stunning ways to start the race, with clear turquoise waters and the rhythmic crash of waves as the soundtrack.

The 112-mile bike ride takes athletes on a single scenic loop that hugs the Intracoastal Waterway and winds through coastal roads. Mostly flat with a few rolling stretches, the course showcases the beauty of northwest Florida. Early breezes off the water provide relief, though winds can build as the day goes on, adding to the challenge.

The marathon run closes out the race with two loops along the shoreline and through PCB neighborhoods. Athletes take on 26.2 miles of flat, fast terrain surrounded by Gulf views and crowds of cheering spectators. The finish line at Pier Park is electric, with music, lights, and the kind of atmosphere that gives athletes that final push toward the words every triathlete dreams of hearing: “You are an IRONMAN.”

Prior to Race Day

The IRONMAN Village at Aaron Bessant Park is the hub of race week. Open several days before the competition, it is free and open to the public, giving athletes, families, and visitors the chance to soak up the atmosphere. Athletes check in, attend briefings, and pick up last-minute gear, while vendors and the official merchandise store keep the energy buzzing. On Friday, October 31, the day before the race, the mandatory practice swim at Russell-Fields Pier gives competitors a feel for the water they’ll face the next morning.

Spectator Experience

The Panama City Beach community knows how to cheer, and the course is lined with supporters from start to finish. The beach at sunrise is ideal for watching the swim. Transition areas and bike turnaround points let you see the action up close, and Pier Park transforms into one of the most exciting finish lines in the IRONMAN circuit. For those who want an elevated experience, VIP packages are available, offering prime viewing spots and catered meals throughout the day.

Beyond Race Day

A race weekend in PCB doubles as the perfect getaway. From beachfront condos and resorts with sweeping Gulf views to cozy rentals tucked into quiet neighborhoods, lodging options fit every style and budget.

Outside the race, Panama City Beach offers countless ways to unwind. Spend a day on the sugar-white sand beaches, paddle out on a board, or take a boat to Shell Island for dolphin sightings and unspoiled natural beauty. Hike the coastal trails at St. Andrews State Park, then relax with some shopping, dining, and nightlife at Pier Park.

Food is always part of the fun. Local favorites like Capt. Anderson’s deliver classic Gulf seafood, while Firefly offers a more upscale dining experience. Or keep it casual at one of the many beachfront bars and grills, where you can sip something cold, hear live music, and watch the waves roll in.

Why the PCB IRONMAN is so special

This race is the longest consecutively running full IRONMAN in North America, and for good reason. The flat, fast course makes it appealing for first-timers and record-chasers alike, while the backdrop of the Gulf Coast makes it one of the most beautiful in the world. The fall weather is ideal for endurance racing, with cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and lower humidity than the summer months. What truly sets it apart is the energy of the community. Locals, volunteers, and visitors come together to create an atmosphere that pushes athletes forward and makes the event unforgettable year after year.