Here’s how to plan the perfect trip.

The state parks, biking and hiking trails, and beaches are the perfect outlet for adventure.

And that’s to say nothing of the fresh Gulf seafood on offer.

Sunset over St. Andrews Bay, Panama City Beach, Florida, USA

Credit:bauhaus1000/Getty Images

He told T+Lits the small-town feel PCB has retained that keeps him here.

Despite all the growth, it still has a very close-knit community.

We have easy access to St. Andrews State Park with a protected water area.

Guest room at Embassy Suites Panama City Beach

Courtesy of Hilton

There are beautiful springs, spots for fishing, and gorgeous beach sunsets, he added.

Its also pet-friendly for those traveling with furry family members.

Splash Resort

If youretraveling with family, Leach recommendsSplash Resort.

A toadfish patiently waits inside a pipe cavity ready to prey on any fish passing by. A Toadfish is an ambush predator at 95 feet deep in Gulf waters at the Dupont Span One artificial reef about 12 miles off the coast of Panama City Beach, Florida.

Michael Wood/Stocktrek Images via Getty Images

The condominium complex has one- to four-bedroom units with direct beach access.

Each condo has a full kitchen if you dont feel like going out.

Leach also loves the Gulf-front overflow edge pool and grills on the balconies for sunset dinners.

Photo of a street with colorful storefronts in downtown Panama City Beach, Florida, USA on a clear blue sky day.

benedek/Getty Images

Youre also likely spot some bottlenose dolphins PCB is home to the largest population in the world.

There are lots of options to get here.

Its inexpensive and I can go frequently.

A bartender making margaritas

Instants/Getty Images

You see so much marine life at the jetties.

Ive seen schools of rays, angelfish of all varieties, and nurse sharks.

I grew up coming here and it was always a blast for everyone in the family.

Gourmet fish dish

Sergey Kashkin/Getty Images

Pierce loves the bevy of miniature golf courses up and down the beach.

I love the ancient monuments, monsters and aliens, and large sculptures.

Beach Day

With 100 beach access points, its easy to spend a day on the sand.

Pair of Adirondack chairs on Panama City Beach in Panama City, Florida

Ruth Peterkin/Getty Images

Between the two state parks lies 27 miles of uninterrupted quartz-laden white sand and emerald waters.

Leach also lauds the accessibility of the beach.Fun for Allis an initiative that showcases accessibility along the beach.

As Leach said, Theres something for the whole family.

Photo of a street scene with small office building and street clock in downtown Panama City, Florida, USA on a clear blue sky day.

benedek/Getty Images

Theres an IMAX theater, a ropes course, SkyWheel, and more for entertainment.

Youll also find kiosks for souvenirs like henna tattoos, saltwater taffy, and beach jewelry.

There are toy stores, flip-flop shops, and spots to get your iconic Panama hat.

Hip.Sea features vintage pieces that were given new life by the mother-daughter owners.

Havana Night Bar and Grill

Pierce counts this among his favorite haunts in PCB.

It’s some of the best Cuban food I’ve had this far north.

Theropa vieja, the Cuban sandwich made on homemade bread, the slow-cooked pork its all so traditional.

Ms. Newbys

No trip to PCB is complete without a visit to the institution that isMs.

The party keeps going until 2 a.m. every day, and they even hold church services on Sundays.

There are rolled omelets with a variety of fillings and a selection of eggs Benedicts.

you’ve got the option to get local beers to enjoy there or packaged to go.

Just don’t leave without a pint of their banana pudding.

There’s also pizza and ice cream.

But everyone lines up at 6 a.m. for the donuts and kolaches.

Get there early as they sell out fast.

Andersons Restaurant & Waterfront Market

Diners have been flocking to family-ownedCapt.

Leach grew up coming here for dinner with her family, watching the boats come in.

Leach let us in on her favorite cant-miss events throughout the year.

It’s an afternoon garden party of tasting wine, craft beer, and spirits.

You cannot beat the entertainment.

Youll also spot gentry and squires performing sword and whip demonstrations amid the revelers.

Visiting on New Years Eve?

Consider attending theBeach Ball Drop.

How to Get There

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airportlies about 15 minutes from Panama City Beach proper.

Bike and golf cart rental shops can be found all along the beach.

Visitors can also hop on theBaywaytrolley.

Uber, Lyft, and taxis are options, too.

But if you want to explore Historic Downtown Panama City or30A, a rental car is a must.