The Best Resorts to Book in Panama City Beach, Florida

Resorts in Panama City Beach naturally give you sand – but often so much more
Resorts in Panama City Beach naturally give you sand – but often so much more | © Solar_Vulpine / Alamy Stock Photo
Mandy Mizell

Proudly proclaiming that it has “The World’s Most Beautiful Beaches,” it’s indisputable that the lure of Panama City Beach is its sugary sand coastline. Stretched along the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle, the town has 27mi (43km) of brilliant white beaches. Begin your escape on the Emerald Coast at one of these waterfront Panama City Beach resorts, bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort, for a round on an award-winning course

Spa Hotel, Hotel, Luxury

The square, colorful outdoor bar overlooking the water at Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort
Courtesy of Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf and Spa Resort / Expedia

Hit the greens at Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort’s highly regarded Bay Point Golf Club – the award-winning 18-hole course offers coastal views and teems with Australian pines and native flora. Elsewhere, the resort provides an exclusive location for the only dining cruise in the area. Enjoy Sunday brunch aboard Champagne Lady, the 78ft (24m) cruising yacht that sails along the Emerald Coast while serving delectable American fare.

2. Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach, for amusement for all ages

Chain Hotel, Resort

Indoor dining area overlooking the ocean with many tables and various rattan seating at Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach
Courtesy of Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach / Expedia

The Holiday Inn Resort provides entertainment for children and adults alike at this gulfside property. Drift away in the lazy river, soak in the oversized hot tub or make a splash at the Aqualand water playground. This resort dotes on young guests – kids eat free and are offered a variety of activities. The fun isn’t reserved for them, however – parents can groove to live music at sunset on the Escape Deck. This 10,000sqft (930sqm) beachfront entertainment complex provides a panoramic view of the gulf, as well as local musicians and a Polynesian dance show.

3. Carillon Beach Resort, for a quiet hometown escape

Resort, Hotel

A long outdoor pool, complete with an accessible lift, flanked by palm trees at the Carillon Beach Resort Inn
Courtesy of Carillon Beach Resort Inn / Expedia

Located in a charming beach community – where pedestrians and golf carts roam more than cars – the Carillon Beach Resort is a tranquil seaside escape. It’s named after its 50ft (15m) bell tower, which plays a concert once an hour between 8am and 8pm. Enjoy the private, mile-long stretch of sand that collides with the emerald waters of the gulf before making your way out. The resort is just a short walk from Market Street – a downtown area that offers live music, shopping and dining.

4. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Panama City Beach Resort, for condo-style lodging

Resort, Chain Hotel

The exterior of Holiday Inn Club Vacations Panama City Beach Resort, seen from above the adjoining sand
Courtesy of Holiday Inn Club Vacations Panama City Beach Resort / Expedia

If you’re seeking a resort experience with the comforts of home, this place has exquisite condo-style villas. Every room comes with a fully equipped kitchen and a private balcony, perfect for you to soak up the saturated sunsets of the Florida Panhandle. It’s a 20-minute beach walk from Pier Park, the popular outdoor shopping and dining complex that’s home to the stunning 200ft (60m) Skywheel ride. If you want entertainment without leaving the property, enjoy the line-up of fun activities, including sunset cinema and scavenger hunts.

5. Beachside Resort Panama City Beach, for old Florida hospitality

Resort

Outdoor pool area with three handrails seen from balcony overlooking the beach at Beachside Resort Panama City Beach
Courtesy of Beachside Resort Panama City Beach / Expedia

The Beachside Resort is tucked away on the quiet end of the beach, bringing you the relaxed comforts of old Florida. Rooms are simple, with clean, large and comfortable beds, and many are equipped with a handy kitchenette and a full-size refrigerator. For a view of the Gulf, most rooms face onto the beach, but you can also kick back at the Reef Bar for a tropical libation on the sundeck, or just hang out in the beachfront hot tub. The resort staff pride themselves on their Southern hospitality, welcoming you with a smile to this stellar location.

For a luxurious stay, check out our guide to the best luxury hotels in Panama City, Florida, bookable on Culture Trip.

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