Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Panama City Beach, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Panama City Beach, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America by month

January

If you go to Panama City Beach in January, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February for Panama City Beach is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It snows ().

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Panama City Beach is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Panama City Beach is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you are traveling to Panama City Beach in May, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Panama City Beach can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you are traveling to Panama City Beach in August, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Panama City Beach is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Panama City Beach is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Panama City Beach in November, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you vacation in Panama City Beach during December, you may notice that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City Beach. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you go to Pine Log State Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America

Panama City Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the Gulf of Mexico coast area of Florida. The white sands and clear waters of the beach make it a great hot spot for people looking to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.

From thrilling water sports to beachside lounging, Panama City Beach offers a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here's a detailed list of the top tourist attractions in Panama City Beach.

1. Beachfront Resorts

Panama City Beach is famous for its luxurious resorts, which offer front-row seats to the gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. You can stay at some amazing hotels like Holiday Inn Resort, Magnolia Bay Hotel, and others that offer a range of amenities like private balconies, swimming pools, access to the beach, and more. You can also opt for more budget-friendly options like motels or vacation rentals that cater to all types of travelers.

2. St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It is located on the east side of Panama City Beach and offers scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico's coastline. The area boasts of beaches, water sports, freshwater ponds, and hiking trails. You can also indulge in activities like fishing, bird-watching, or kayak tours.

3. Gulf World Marine Park

Gulf World Marine Park is a popular attraction that offers a unique experience of interacting with marine life. The park showcases dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals and offers interactive sessions where visitors can swim, touch and play with the animals. The park also has exciting animal shows and exhibits that are informative and educational.

4. Pier Park

Pier Park is a popular outdoor mall located on the beachfront of Panama City Beach. It offers a range of options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The park has over 120 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a cinema and a bowling alley. Visitors can also enjoy live concerts or events on the outdoor amphitheater.

5. Shell Island

Shell Island is a pristine and secluded beach located off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It is accessible only by boat, making it a great spot for exploring and solitude. The island boasts of crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Visitors can indulge in activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

6. WonderWorks Panama City Beach

WonderWorks is an indoor amusement park that offers interactive exhibits that are informative and fun for visitors of all ages. The park has over 100 educational exhibits that cover topics like space, physical challenges, light and sound, and natural disasters.

7. Coconut Creek Family Fun Park

Coconut Creek Family Fun Park is a great spot for families to enjoy a day of fun and excitement. It has two 18-hole miniature golf courses, a tropical island playground, and a 60-game arcade center. Visitors can also feed the alligators, zip line, or jump on a bungee trampoline.

In conclusion, Panama City Beach is a paradise for tourists, offering something unique and exciting for every visitor. So, if you are planning your next vacation, Panama City Beach should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Lake Tai, China, Newry, Maine, United States of America, Southern Marmara, Turkey, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Casal Velino, Italy, Eastern Cuba, Cuba, Yokohama, Japan, Jamestown, North Dakota, United States of America, Rochester and Suburbs, New York, United States of America, McLean, Virginia, United States of America, and Pensacola Beach, Florida, United States of America.