Are you looking for the perfect vacation spot in Florida’s beautiful panhandle region? Then look no further because, in this post, we’ll cover the best towns in the Florida Panhandle to vacation for an unforgettable experience.
Whether you are looking for a beach getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a quaint southern town feel, the towns of the Florida Panhandle are perfect for all types of vacationers.
From Pensacola to Panama City Beach and everywhere in between, here are the top spots for an memorable vacation in the Florida Panhandle.
*Please note that this article contains some affiliate links. This means that we may receive a small commission for some of recommendations at absolutely zero additional cost to you.
The 9 Best Towns In The Florida Panhandle
1. Destin
Destin Beach
With its white beaches and emerald-green waters, Destin is a paradise for beachgoers looking to take in the sunshine.
Located along the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin’s laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. For those looking to get on the water, there are fishing charters and boat tours at HarborWalk Village.
HarborWalk is a great place to spend the day along the waterfront, filled with shops, lots of activities for the family, and of course, some amazing restaurants.
If you’re seeking some adventure, the area offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and parasailing, and even a hydrojet dolphin cruise.
When in Destin, be sure to visit Crab Island, a popular sandbar, just north of the Marler Bridge. Here, you can splash around in about 2-4 feet of water, have drinks and hang out with other groups.
For a little more leisurely pace, there’s also plenty of shopping at Destin Commons and nearby Okaloosa Island.
The best beaches in Destin include James Lee Beach, Henderson Beach State Park, and Norriego Point.
So come experience Destin for yourself and discover why it’s one of the best towns in the Florida Panhandle to vacation!
2. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is a welcoming and vibrant town situated on the stunning white-sand beaches of Florida’s Panhandle.
Whether you are looking for laid-back beach vibes, shopping for souvenirs, or going wild with your friends on the famous party beaches, Panama City Beach is sure to have something for everyone.
The area offers a host of activities from boating and fishing to swimming, diving, surfing, and sunbathing. You can also take part in fun water sports such as parasailing, water skiing, and stand-up paddle boarding. If you’re looking to sit back and relax there are also a number of sunset cruises available.
If you are looking for some retail therapy, there are lots of shopping options at Pier Park. There are also activities such as laser tag, arcade games, mini golf, axe throwing, and an escape room. Or you can take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel and take in the incredible views of the park, Russell-Fields Pier, and the Gulf of Mexico.
There is a movie theater at Pier Park if you are in need of a rainy-day activity. Pier Park is really a perfect place for the whole family.
However, Panama City Beach is probably most well-known for its countless Gulf beaches- some of the best include Dog Beach (next to Pier Park), M.B. Miller County Pier, St. Andrews Park, and Shell Island.
Panama City Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a stress-free vacation in the sun, it’s no wonder Panama City Beach is one of the top destinations for Florida Panhandle vacations.
3. Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach is a stunning coastal town on the Florida Panhandle, with some of the most beautiful beaches in all of the United States.
It’s an ideal vacation spot for anyone looking to relax and enjoy sunny days, with plenty of activities available to keep everyone entertained.
Navarre Beach also offers some interesting attractions to explore and enjoy as part of your vacation. If you’re an animal lover, you’ll enjoy the Sea Turtle Conservation Center and nearby Gulf Breeze Zoo.
There are also a number of parks and trails in the area, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The Naval Live Oaks Area is nearby and an ideal spot to get out in nature and explore.
Navarre Beach is also known for its excellent restaurants. Places like Dewey Destin’s (also in Destin), Beach House Bar & Grille, and Windjammers offer waterfront views and terrific food.
Head to Juana’s Pagodas for food and drinks, live music, and beach volleyball along the Santa Rosa Sound.
Take a stroll or try your luck fishing on the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, or if you want to relax, you can just lay back on the beach and listen to the waves coming in. After all, this beach town calls itself “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place”!
Navarre Beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a Florida Panhandle vacation. With its stunning beaches and fascinating attractions, it provides an ideal setting for a fun and memorable getaway.
4. Seaside
Beautiful coloured homes in Seaside, Florida
Located in the Florida Panhandle along Scenic Highway 30A, Seaside is a quaint beach town that makes for an ideal vacation spot. If this beach town looks familiar to you, it’s because the Jim Carrey movie, The Truman Show was filmed here!
With its picture-perfect white sand beaches, lush rolling dunes, and clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico lapping at its shoreline, you can’t help but feel relaxed and stress-free when visiting this peaceful coastal paradise.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, there’s something here to suit all kinds of travelers.
Spend your days sunbathing on the beach, playing in the waves, or exploring the nature trails at nearby Point Washington State Forest. There are plenty of activities available including fishing charters, dolphin-watching tours, and kayaking excursions – just to name a few.
In the evenings, take a stroll through the town and enjoy some of Seaside’s unique shops and restaurants. Sample delicious seafood dishes from local restaurants like Bud & Alley’s or grab some food at one of the airstream row food trucks.
No matter what type of stay you are looking for, Seaside is an ideal location to get away from it all and experience everything that makes Florida’s Panhandle so special. After a short stay in Seaside you’ll see why it was named one of the best places to live in the Florida Panhandle.
5. Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach
With miles of white sand beaches and emerald waters, Pensacola Beach is one of the best towns in the Florida Panhandle to vacation.
From the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the tranquil bay to inland lakes, there is a variety of outdoor activities that make Pensacola Beach an ideal vacation spot.
Explore all that Pensacola has to offer-from fishing trips, parasailing, night glow kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding along Big Lagoon State Park, or simply relaxing on the beach soaking in the sun and enjoying local seafood – any way you choose to spend your time here will be unforgettable.
After days spent exploring nature’s beauty and discovering hidden gems around town, guests can enjoy unique nightlife experiences with awesome seafood restaurants and entertainment throughout. For live entertainment, visit Flounder’s Chowder House for spectacular seafood and music.
If you’re not in the mood for seafood, that’s no problem because one of the best restaurants in Pensacola Beach is Water Pig BBQ, located in the heart of the city.
The National Naval Aviation Museum is a must-see spot for anyone interested in aviation history, featuring interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
You can’t visit Pensacola Beach without visiting the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, along Santa Rosa Sound. Here, there are lots of shopping and food options. Grab some of the best pizza in town at Papa’s Pizza.
Just across the street from the boardwalk are Casino Beach and the Pensacola Beach Pier. With fishing on the pier, restaurants on the beach, and entertainment throughout the year, there is plenty to do here!
When in Pensacola Beach, be sure to visit Gulf Islands National Seashore, with miles of powder white sand beach. The National Seashore sits between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach.
6. Santa Rosa Beach
Sunset at Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is a popular destination for vacationers looking to explore the Florida Panhandle and its sandy beaches. Located along 30A in Walton County, the town of Santa Rosa Beach has become a premier beach destination for visitors from all over the country.
The crystal clear Gulf waters are just steps away from charming boutique shops, local restaurants, and attractions along Scenic Highway 30A. With miles of white sand beaches and turquoise water views, it’s no wonder why so many vacationers flock to this idyllic area of the Florida Panhandle each year.
For those seeking an active adventure, there are plenty of enjoyable activities available. Visitors can choose to rent paddle boards or kayaks at one of the nearby rental spots, take a hike through the sand dunes, or rent an e-bike to explore some of Santa Rosa’s beautiful beaches.
Topsail Hill Preserve is a nice park to explore with trails, lots of wildlife, and a secluded Gulf beach. The beach is about 3/4 mile from the entrance but you can take a ride on the trolley if you don’t want to take the hike!
If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, Santa Rosa Beach has plenty of options for that too. Take some time to relax in the sun at Ed Walline Beach or Dune Allen, or spend an afternoon shopping and dining in one of the local shops and restaurants.
There are cute shops, restaurants, and an outdoor art gallery, Artists At Gulf Place, just across the street from Ed Walline Beach Access.
From its beautiful beaches and endless activities to its quaint downtown area and delicious food scene, this Florida Panhandle town is definitely worth visiting!
7. Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach Dolphin Reef
Situated in Walton County, along the beautiful Emerald Coast, Miramar Beach is an ideal vacation destination.
From luxurious resorts and shopping centers to nature trails and water parks, there are plenty of fun activities in this amazing beach town.
The beaches here are perfect for relaxation or recreation. Whether you want to sunbathe on the soft white sands or challenge yourself with some watersports like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, Miramar Beach has it. They offer rentals and even parasailing right at Miramar Beach Regional Access, right next to Pompano Joe’s.
Aside from its numerous activities, Miramar Beach also offers visitors plenty of places to shop and eat.
Silver Sands has a ton of outlet stores and restaurants, while Grand Boulevard offers a more upscale dining and shopping experience.
However, for the best family experience in Miramar Beach, visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf, with kids’ activities, shopping, and restaurants, along Choctawhatchee Bay.
Scenic Highway 98 runs from Destin to Miramar Beach along the coast and has restaurants such as Crab Trap, Pompano Joe’s, and one of my favorites, Whale’s Tail.
All in all, Miramar Beach is an excellent destination for a Florida Panhandle vacation. With its stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and abundance of activities, there’s no better place to get away from everyday life and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation.
8. Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach
With its sugar-white sand beaches, miles of natural trails, and several outdoor activities to do, Fort Walton Beach is an ideal destination for families and beachgoers alike.
The Emerald Coast’s turquoise waters offer a wide range of exciting water sports like jet skiing and kayaking.
Visitors can also head to The Boardwalk At Okaloosa Island, a waterfront complex with shops and restaurants, right next to the beach and pier. The boardwalk is perfect for families, with a playground, splash pad, and gelato shop.
The whole family will love the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, with dolphin shows and plenty of sea life.
For more activities, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is just across the highway from the boardwalk and has an arcade, mini golf, and other activities.
Whether it be unwinding on the beach or taking part in one of many thrilling adventures, Fort Walton Beach has something for everyone to enjoy!
9. Grayton Beach
The small-town feel of this Florida Panhandle town is a refreshing change from other heavily populated beach towns found in the area.
The area contains many unique shops, restaurants, galleries, and more – all within walking distance of each other.
Visitors have the opportunity to explore this charming beach village at their own pace while enjoying some of the best seafood and casual dining around.
Restaurants such as The Red Bar and Chiringo offer great food and are just a block’s walk from the ocean. Try the Lobster Roll at Chiringo!
Nature lovers will appreciate Grayton Beach’s generous access to local state parks such as Point Washington State Forest and Grayton Beach State Park.
Hikers, bikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts will all enjoy the miles of trails available to explore throughout these parks.
There are several water sports centers offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and more as well as an array of other recreational options such as golf courses and fishing charters.
Grayton Beach is truly a Florida Panhandle vacation destination unlike any other.
Conclusion
The Florida Panhandle region is the perfect vacation destination for beachgoers, adventure seekers, and families. With all of these beautiful towns there’s no shortage of options for those looking for a relaxing and memorable getaway. Each town offers unique combinations of stunning beaches, outdoor activities, attractions, and dining experiences, making them perfect for all travelers. So why wait? Start planning your next vacation in the Florida Panhandle today!
Huge thanks to Wayne Kask from Always On The Shore for this guest post. Wayne is a travel blogger who loves to write about the best attractions, restaurants, and resorts in Florida and the southeastern U.S. When he is not writing, he is running outdoors, spending time with family, or planning his next trip.
