Panama City Beach is a popular tourist destination in the southeastern United States, located in the Panhandle of northwestern Florida. With an estimated population of 15,000, the city sees a maximum daily population of over 100,000 during the busy summer months. Every year, around 4.5 million visitors come to PCB to experience its 27 miles of white sand beaches along the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The city is located at latitude 30.176 N and has an average elevation of 13 feet above sea level. The city is bordered to the south by the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, with Andrew Bay to the east and Lake Powell just outside the city limits on the western end.
To the north lies West Bay. But did you know that Panama City Beach is also home to a beautiful river? The Econfina River empties into the Gulf of Mexico 2.2 miles south of the park's boat ramp, with picnic facilities close by. The area is steeped in history, with circular cannon platforms still visible near the piers from when it was part of Santa María church during World War II. Opened in 1951, Camp Helen State Park now covers more than 1,200 acres and includes 1.5 miles of sandy beaches and natural dunes. Panama City Beach's slogan is “The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World” and it's easy to see why. The city offers plenty of activities for visitors, from fishing and diving in its offshore artificial reefs to exploring its two state parks (St.
Andrews and Camp Helen State Park). There are also dozens of access points to public beaches, waterfront restaurants serving fresh local seafood, and legendary attractions. US 98 runs from northwest to southeast just inland from the coast, driving east 10 miles (16 km) to Panama City and 47 miles (76 km) northwest to Destin. FL-30 runs along the coast from northwest to southeast as Front Beach Road, leading east to Panama City and 24 km northwest to Rosemary Beach. For those looking for ways to stay active in Panama City Beach, there are plenty of options. From fishing and diving in its offshore artificial reefs to exploring its two state parks (St.
Andrews and Camp Helen State Park), there's something for everyone. Visitors can also take advantage of dozens of access points to public beaches, waterfront restaurants serving fresh local seafood, and legendary attractions. Panama City Beach is also home to two educational institutions: Florida State University branch campus in Panama City is located just across the Hathaway Bridge from Panama City Beach; while Gulf Coast State College is located in Panama City, just across the Hathaway Bridge from Panama City Beach. But one of the most exciting things about visiting Panama City Beach is discovering its hidden gem - the Econfina River! This beautiful river empties into the Gulf of Mexico 2.2 miles south of Camp Helen State Park's boat ramp, with picnic facilities close by. It's a great spot for fishing, kayaking or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the river. So if you're looking for a unique way to explore Panama City Beach, be sure to check out the Econfina River!.
