Panama City Beach’s Bottlenose Dolphins Fascinating Facts

There are over 27 species of marine mammals that live in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Among the species that can be found in the Gulf are several different dolphins, manatees, baleen whales and toothed whales. While you may not see every one of these species during an aquatic tour of the waters near Panama City Beach, you have a very good chance of seeing bottlenose dolphins.

The Gulf of Mexico has the largest concentration of bottlenose dolphins found in U.S. waters.

There are lots of ways to seek out bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat during your visit to Panama City Beach. You can take a dolphin boat cruise or guided wave runner tour, or rent a boat and venture out on your own.

These curious creatures may even come looking for you as you snorkel or swim in the Gulf waters. However you find them, you can bet that seeing these beautiful animals in the wild will be a highlight of your vacation.

 Bottlenose Dolphin near Panama City Beach up close

 

Here Are Some Interesting Facts About Our Friends in the Gulf:

Porpoises and Dolphins are Different

Porpoises, dolphins, and whales are all members of the animal classification order Cetacea. (The word Cetacea is derived from a Greek word meaning “large sea creature.”) These marine mammals share similar characteristics including their flattened tails, called flukes, and their cylinder-shaped bodies. The bottlenose dolphins common in the Gulf of Mexico are sometimes called grey porpoises. But, of course, they aren’t porpoises at all. There are no porpoise species that call the Gulf of Mexico home.

Bottlenose dolphin dorsal fin

What’s the difference? Dolphins usually have a longer snout, or beak, and cone-shaped teeth. Porpoises have a more rounded face, and their teeth are flat. A dolphin’s body is usually more streamlined than a porpoise’s body. And, the dolphin’s fin is curved with a signature hook shape. A porpoise’s fin is just a rounded triangle. You might say that a porpoise is Richie, and a dolphin is the Fonz. Dolphins are just cooler.

Echolocation is all in a Dolphin’s Head

Most dolphins, including the bottlenose dolphin, have a slightly rounded, pronounced forehead. This part of their body is important for echolocation. Echolocation allows dolphins to use sound waves to locate items in the water. Dolphins operate this sonar system by emitting clicking sounds that travel through the water then bounce back after hitting an object. The dolphin’s large forehead and jaw capture these return sound waves and transmit them to the dolphin’s brain for analysis.Forehead of bottlenose dolphin echolocation

Dolphins Have Good Taste

Dolphins like to eat squid, octopus, and fish. On occasion, they may also nibble on krill or another crunchy crustacean. Dolphins often hunt in groups, called pods. They may surround a school of fish with a ring of bubbles or work as a team to herd the fish together. Dolphins have even been known to use their tails to fling fish onto the shore for easy pickings!

Dolphins Love to Have a Good Time

Bottlenose dolphins like to play and dive in the water. Often you will see a dolphin play on the surface of the water. When diving, dolphins will sometimes flip their tails—called flukes—out of the water. Dolphins like to play in the wakes created by boats and the currents created by passing whales. If you are lucky, you may even see a dolphin leap completely out of the water!

A dolphin may breach or leap out of the water for fun or while chasing fish. But if you see a dolphin leaping out of the water repeatedly and slapping the water with its tail or exhaling loudly (chuffing), it is time to leave the creature alone. These are all signs that the dolphin has had enough of your company. The wild dolphins around Panama City Beach are pretty used to us humans wandering around, but it is always good to remember—we are visiting in their home.

Let us Help You Visit the Dolphins When You Come to PCB

Here in Panama City Beach, we love our marine mammal neighbors and want to share their beauty with you when you visit. Our tour guides are trained to respect the dolphins and avoid disturbing them while still allowing you to observe them in their natural habitat.

Adventures at Sea boat fleet

Stop by one of our locations or book your tour online. We’ll make sure you have a memorable experience meeting our fascinating friends, the bottlenose dolphins.

Make Like a Pirate at Panama City Beach

Find Treasures Galore This Fall in Panama City Beach

Ahoy there, me hearties! Are ye ready to talk like a pirate? September 19, 2016 is International Talk Like a Pirate Day! And there’s no better place to be on such a splendid day than Panama City Beach, the Wreck Capital of the South.

If you feel like having a pirate adventure, dig out your map and set a course for PCB.

The waters around Panama City Beach are full of sunken ships. And every good pirate knows, where there be sunken ships, there be sunken treasure! Har! What a lot of treasures Panama City Beach has both underwater and above. It’s enough to make even the most seasoned pirate smile.

The waters around Panama City Beach are full of sunken ships. And every good pirate knows, where there be sunken ships, there be sunken treasure! Har! What a lot of treasures Panama City Beach has both underwater and above. It’s enough to make even the most seasoned pirate smile.

deep sea diving

You don’t even need to wait until Talk Like a Pirate Day, Panama City Beach has treasures to discover every day.

Keep a Lookout for These Fine Treasures:

First, there’s a treasure you’ll find nowhere else in the United States—the Man in the Sea Museum. This museum preserves the history of deep water diving. On display you’ll find treasures from sunken ships, early diving suits, and a submarine waiting for you to explore.

The U.S. Navy’s first underwater habitat, the SEALAB-I, is also on display at the Man in the Sea Museum. Now, ye won’t be able to visit International Talk Like a Pirate Day because the museum is closed on Mondays. But Tuesdays through Saturdays, this treasure is open for business.

Next, there be the Underwater Archaeological Preserve. Florida has several sites that make up its Museums in the Sea. The SS Tarpon is number six. This sunken ship is a twin-screwed steam ship that sank in 1937. Advanced level divers can visit the steamer and view the wreckage in person. Divers can also pay a visit to Black Bart, an oil field supply ship lodged 75 feet beneath the surface of the gulf. This wreck was deployed as part of the Panama City Beach area’s artificial reef.

 

Snorkeling Panama City BeachYe snorkelers can get your chance to view the underwater treasures as well. The E.E. Simpson Tug is just 20 feet below water. This wreck can be seen from aboard your vessel or from the surface with ye snorkel gear. The E.E. Simpson Tug went down in 1929 and is now home to an abundance of sea life including rays, turtles, fish, crabs and squid!

Be ye a land lubber? Then mayhaps Shell Island has the treasure you seek. Shell Island is seven miles of pristine beach with the gulf’s trademark white quartz sands. Spend the day on the island finding shells, hermit crabs, starfish, and sand dollars. Rent a pontoon or sailboat to reach the island or charter a boat to carry you there. Bring a picnic lunch and snorkeling gear and spend the day discovering Shell Island’s hidden gems.

Are ye an admirer of the dread pirate Dominique Youx? Do you geocache? Then you can follow his trail through Panama City Beach. Just get the GPS coordinates from Geocaching.com and then go on your own Pirates of the High Seas treasure hunt. The geocached treasures may be long gone afore ye make it, but Captain Youx’s path is still there to follow. Tis a map guaranteed to reveal the secret beauty of Panama City Beach.

boat rentals and charters

Aye Capt’n, Adventures at Sea is at Yer Service

As always your Mateys at Adventures at Sea stand at the ready to assist you. If your vessel be in dry-dock, we can rent you a sailboat or pontoon. And if your captain be indisposed, we can ferry your party to your destination be it a diving expedition or a sunset cruise. Lost your gear at the gambling tables? We can set you up with snorkeling and fishing equipment, too. Just pay us a visit online or in person and tell us what it is ye be needing to make your vacation complete.

And if ye be a thrifty pirate, be sure to check out our coupon page to see if your hotel qualifies you for a VIP (very important pirate) discount.

Labor Day Weekend in Panama City Beach—There’s a Party Going On!

Labor Day Weekend in Panama City Beach means it’s time for the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam! Three days of country music in Panama City Beach. This festival starts early. The gates open at 2 pm and the music starts at 2:30 pm. Will you be here? We’ll be ready for you.

Pier-Park

Last Blast of Summer in Panama City Beach

Even if you aren’t here for the music, you’ll find plenty of other things to do over Labor Day Weekend at Panama City Beach. Our town will be rolling out the red carpet for all our ‘last blast of summer’ guests.Nightlife pcb

Here’s a list of some of the other Labor Day Weekend events you can catch here in PCB:

Panama City’s Friday Fest—This event takes place every Friday from March through November. Vendors, show cars, and bands take over four blocks to throw a massive street party. The activities begin at 6 pm and last until 10 pm. You can expect area restaurants to be open late, too.

Bay Area Backstage Pass—Taking place at the Marina Civic Center, the Backstage Pass concert series features local bands. On September 2, 2016, Turtlefoot will take the stage starting at 6:30 pm. General admission or table seating is available. Enjoy drinks and great music at this indoor venue.

Labor Day Weekend Red Snapper Season

Opening Day of the Fall Red Snapper Season—September 2, 2016, marks the first day of the state of Florida’s fall red snapper fishing season. Labor Day Weekend only, you can fish for red snapper for four full days. Florida’s other fall red snapper dates are limited to Friday through Sunday only. So if you want to get the most of your fishing expedition, Labor Day weekend is the time to book your tour.

Shane Johns Project—The Shane Johns will be performing Friday night at  Chillin’ Gelato Café to mark the release of his latest album, “Clear on the Water Beach.” Check out Shane’s music here.

Hogs & Dogs—Spend Labor Day weekend with your favorite things—dogs and Harley-Davidson. Harley-Davidson will host three days of food, drinks, and music at the Panama City Beach location. Dress up your dog for the fashion show and make a donation to your favorite pet charity while you check out the cool motorcycles on display.

5th Annual Alys Beach 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run—Taking place on September 4, 2016, this event supports the Alaqua Animal Refuge. The races begin and end at the Alys Beach Amphitheater. Alys Beach is located just north of Panama City Beach. The events begin early Sunday morning, and you’ll find activities for all ages taking place at the start/finish line. Your kids will love the giant obstacle course and bounce house. Plus, there will be music.

Of course, these are just a few of the activities and events happening in the area over Labor Day weekend. Area bars, restaurants, water and theme parks will all be open and ready to show our visitors a great time and so will Adventures at Sea.

Parasailing panama city beach

Make Your Labor Day Weekend Plans Now

If you’ve already booked your room for the weekend, now is the time to reserve your spot with Adventures at Sea. Adventures at Sea is your one-stop shop for all your rental needs while you’re here in Panama City Beach. From jet skis to beach chairs, we have what you need. Charter a fishing boat or rent a pontoon boat and spend your weekend on the water.

Use our convenient online booking system to secure your rentals before you arrive. We offer several locations for rentals and tours around Panama City Beach. You can find Adventures at Seas near many of Panama City’s most popular hotels and the County Pier. Just consult our Panama City map to find the one closest to you.

 

Adventures at Sea Near your hotel

 

If you can’t make it here for the Labor Day festivals, don’t’ worry! Anytime is a great time to visit Panama City Beach. There’s always something fantastic to do. Adventures at Sea will help you make the most of your visit—whenever you come.

 

Ready to See What Lives Below the Surface? Take a Snorkeling Tour at Panama City Beach

Thinking of looking beneath the surface during your vacation in Panama City Beach?

Snorkeling is an excellent way to explore this gulf coast’s beautiful underwater worlds. Snorkeling is easier to learn and takes less equipment that scuba diving, making it a great introduction to underwater viewing for adventurers of all ages. You only need a few basic pieces of equipment to get started. With just a little snorkeling practice, you will be ready to see Panama City Beach from a whole new angle!

Discover Underwater Delights with a PCB Snorkeling Tour

Because snorkeling doesn’t require you to dive deep, it is also a good choice for members of your party who want to see what lurks beneath—but not too far beneath. In fact, you don’t even have to swim the entire time you are snorkeling. You can sit on the seabed in a shallow spot and watch the sea life swim past you. When you are ready, just lift off and float along the surface of the water. Let the buoyant water do the work while you enjoy the view.
With a guided snorkeling tour, you can rest assured that you’ll find the perfect location for your underwater exploration. Just tell our tour operators what you’d like to see. Then, you can focus on the experience and leave the driving to someone else.

A Wondrous Variety of Sea Life Awaits

Panama City Beach is an ideal spot for your first snorkeling excursion. The crystal clear waters around Panama City Beach offer a wonderful view of a wide variety of sea creatures. The jetties around nearby St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island teem with sea life.  From damsel fish and blennies to redfish, needlefish and wrasses you will be delighted at the variety of fish that pass before your mask.

In addition to the many varieties of small fish, visitors to Panama City Beach report seeing sea urchins, sand dollars and amazingly big hermit crabs. These aren’t your pet shop hermit crabs, but crabs in their natural habitat underwater and able to grow.Snorkeling lets you see stingrays where they live

Snorkeling allows you to have an intimate view of the sea life of the bay. Imagine seeing a spindly shrimp or a transparent jellyfish drift by as you float atop the water looking down!

Creatures Large and Small are All Within View

In deeper waters, you can expect to see larger fish such as grouper and amberjacks. You might also encounter rays or even sharks. Between May and October, sea turtles flock to the gulf shores for nesting season. Endangered loggerheads, leatherbacks and green sea turtles can sometimes be spotted near our coast. On your snorkeling tour, you’ll want to keep your eyes open for these majestic creatures.

The waters around Panama City Beach are known for their high population of bottlenose dolphins. While humans are not allowed to interfere with the activities of these creatures, they sometimes swim close enough to touch.

An Adventure You Won’t Soon Forget

Human beings have always been drawn to the ocean. There is a certain peace and tranquility that immersing oneself in this watery otherworld brings. We can view fish and other sea creatures in films or aquariums, but there’s nothing quite like seeing a free creature in its own habitat. Your snorkeling adventure allows you to see into a world apart. A world that is unique and incredible with species that will impress and amaze.

To find out what’s beneath the surface of our beautiful waters, plan your visit and book your tour today. Explore the secret life of Florida’s sea creatures with a one of a kind snorkeling adventure.

 

 

 

 

Visit the Best of Panama City Beach

The famous travel site Tripadvisor has announced its 2016 list of the best beaches in the United States, and we’re more than thrilled to say that Panama City Beach made the top 10 list! Citing our sugar white sand and the chance of seeing dolphins playing on the horizon, the site used comments from users to help make its decision.

To add to the awesomeness of seeing our beach as one of the best in the U.S., we thought we’d suggest some of the other best places you should check out in PCB. Here’s the best of Panama City Beach, neatly compiled just for you!

Best Restaurants in Panama City Beach

Wondering where you should stop for a meal after an exciting morning on a Jet Ski or sailing out to see dolphins? Tripadvisor recommends:

  1. Andy’s Flour Power, a local cafe that serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The menu features all your favorites, from omelets to skillets at breakfast to sandwiches and salad for lunch. All the 5-star ratings say you’ve got to give this place a try.
  2. Liza’s Kitchen is located close to the beach and offers dog friendly outdoor seating. The menu focuses on sandwiches, salads, and soups, and reviewers love them!
  3. David’s Sno-Balls is the place to go if you want New Orleans style poboys and beignets in the warm sunshine of Panama City Beach. The muffalettas turn up frequently in reviews as must-trys.
  4. Finn’s Island Style Grub features a variety of fare, from fish tacos to chicken burrito bowls. A blend of Mexican, American, and Caribbean food with plenty of vegetarian options.
  5. Firefly is a great place to go if you want a dinner with a little more ambiance. With a wide variety of cuisine and tempting options, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. You can book online with Open Table, and the restaurant offers an early bird special for those who dine before 6:30, according to the website.

Best Seafood in Panama City Beach

But maybe you’re looking for something a little more fishy for your dinner – assuming, of course, that you’re not planning to catch your own – and want to know more about the best seafood in PCB? Tripadvisor has you covered there, too:

  • Firefly, one of the top 5 best restaurants overall, is also #1 when you search for seafood in Panama City Beach. Definitely a great place to try out!
  • Saltwater Grill offers seafood, Creole and Cajun cooking, as well as American fare. Both the Early Bird and the Main Menu are listed online, with reviewers noting that gluten-free options are clearly marked.
  • Dusty’s Oyster Bar & Dining is a great stop if you’re looking for some great food with a different sort of feel. Reviewers always mention the quality of the oysters and the quirky wallpaper of dollar bills.
  • Salty Sue’s offers seafood and barbecue with a big menu of options to try out. Reviewers compliment the simplicity of the atmosphere and the quality of the food.

If you’re still not sure where you want to eat after your next Panama City Beach adventure, ask us on your trip or tour. We’re happy to give personalized recommendations; everyone at Adventures at Sea has been in the area for years, and we’re happy to point you in the right direction.

Have you had a great meal in Panama City Beach? Tell us about it down below!

Join Us For Family Friendly Panama City Beach Vacations!

Let’s tell the truth: Panama City Beach has something of a reputation when it comes to Spring Break. In March and April, there have been times in the past where things have gotten a little too intense. The whole community has come together, however, to revamp things in the spring and make it clear that we’re here for your family friendly Panama City Beach experience.

New laws were passed in PCB last summer which go into effect this spring. The laws state that people can’t consume alcohol on our white sand beaches, that the closing time for bars will be earlier than it was previously, and that drinking in parking lots will be prohibited.

What this means for your family is that, if you’re traveling with kids, you shouldn’t see some of the problematic behavior that has concerned people in the past.

Wondering about some of the upcoming events that your kids might love, if you’re coming to PCB this spring?

The lineup for SpringJam has been announced, and includes Jamie Lyn Spears and Rascall Flatts.

If you like your music just a little smoother, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival will be something to see in late April.

Horse crazy kiddos will have a great chance to see a beautiful horse show, with proceeds going to charity.

And if you want to hear some of the best choral music around, then you need to see the amazing performances at the Panama City Beach Music Festival.

And that’s beyond all the exciting things that always happen in Panama City Beach, from kid friendly attractions to stimulating their imaginations.

If you’re traveling with your kids, it’s a good idea to call ahead and talk to the hotel or condo that you’re planning to rent. Ask them honestly, do they have a family friendly atmosphere? When do things usually quiet down? Check reviews on Yelp and other sources to make sure reviews agree with what you’re hearing from the business itself.

Make sure you’re planning activities that your kids will enjoy! Traveling with frustrated kids is a hassle for everyone, both you and them. Think about when your kids are going to be most relaxed and excited, and plan the fun part of your day at that point. If everyone’s a little tired and overwhelmed after lunch, plan to spend that time relaxing near your hotel’s pool, for example, rather than out in the sun on the beach again.

If you’re not sure what your kids will enjoy, give us a call! We’ve been doing this for years, and we’re happy to help you figure out what times and activities will be best for your family. From a boat cruise to see dolphins in their natural habitat to the chance to see the beach from high above on a parasail, we can give you suggestions on how to prepare them for what the trip will be like, what you might want to bring along to keep it fun for everyone, and how to make it a big success.

The long and the short of it is that we want everyone who comes to Panama City Beach to have a fantastic time. Looking for tips on how to make your PCB vacation more family friendly? Give us a call! We’re glad to help you plan.

Play Sports in Panama City Beach!

People come to Florida’s Emerald Coast for so many reasons. To see the gorgeous white sands beaches. To swim near dolphins. To experience the ocean for the first time. Now, more than every, people are choosing to visit to play sports in Panama City Beach.

Frank Brown Park, a local park that focuses on offering softball, swimming, soccer, and baseball events to visitors and residents, has recently announced a number of upgrades that they say will bring the park up to state of the art. Upgrades will include a new operations building, new dugouts, and new fencing. By 2018, they will also add a new sports village to their portfolio.

If you’re visiting Panama City Beach for spring break, or live in the area and wonder what you might want to do on a beach all day, we have a variety of fun suggestions for sports to play on the beach! Here are just a few ideas:

Volleyball!

A beach side classic, volleyball nets dot the beach throughout Panama City Beach. Play a pick up game with whoever is there, or bring your friends and a ball to play. Run, dive into the sand, and then splash into the waves to cool off. It’s a favorite for a reason!

If you’re visiting the area, many of the hotels and condo rental buildings in the area have volleyball courts, just check their amenities.

And if you’re looking for a more formal volleyball experience in the area, check out the Emerald Coast Volleyball Club in nearby Fort Walton.

Ultimate Frisbee

If you still think of Frisbee as the goofy game that people in the 70s played with neon plastic discs, you need to pay attention: the sport has come a long way. From disc golf courses (Joe Moody Harris Park has a nine hole course) to Ultimate Frisbee leagues on the beach, these plastic discs have kept pace with modern sports. You’ll have tons of fun playing with your friends, or making brand new friends through the sport. Plus, if you need a Frisbee while you’re in town, many different restaurants use them as plates and souvenirs! You’ll never have to walk far to find one.

Parasailing

If you want the rush of extreme sports without the danger, you need to schedule a parasailing trip. While this is just one of the many rides we offer through Adventures at Sea, there’s nothing else quite like it. Parasailing is great for everyone, from people who’ve always wanted to fly but aren’t ready to try parachuting to those who just want to see the beach from a bird’s eye view. You can capture amazing photos or videos, or keep the entire experience for yourself. Either way, we’re sure you’ll love it. Go up on your own, or with someone whose hand you want to hold.

Whatever brings you to Panama City Beach, make sure to plan a little bit of time to do the thing that you love most, whether that’s engaging in some extreme, adrenaline inducing sports, luxuriating on the beach, or working up a sweat on the soccer field, Panama City Beach has you covered. We’re the Florida destination for spring break vacationers, but we are also a great space for families all year round.

Get in touch with us today to start planning the exciting adventures you’ll enjoy on your Panama City Beach excursion!

Panama City Beach Coupons and Deals!

There’s nothing quite like a Florida vacation. From theme parks to water sports, there are tons of different ways to approach the adventure – but one thing we know is that it can start to get pricey. At Adventures at Sea, we’ve compiled a list of Panama City Beach coupons and deals that can help you stretch your vacation budget just a little farther. You can see the full list at the link above, but we wanted to highlight a few special deals that you’ll want to check out!

Local Guests

If you’re staying with at one of the many vacation condo rental spots in Panama City Beach, we offer coupons to many of their guests. If you’re staying with:

  • Sandpiper Beacon
  • Grand Panama
  • Boardwalk
  • Holiday Inn
  • Landmark
  • Sugar Sands
  • Origin at Seahaven
  • Chateau
  • Venture Out
  • Pelican Walk

then you can save 25% off when you book your adventure online. Tour the spots where dolphins play, visit Shell Island, go fishing, or enjoy a sunset cruise out on the water. The options are endless. If there’s something you want to do that you don’t see listed on our bookings, call us and talk; we may be able to find a solution.

Please note that you’ll be asked to show your room key when you claim your reservation.

Students, Law Enforcement, and Military

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting on vacation, we thank members of the military for their service with a special discount. When you book online, you’ll get a 15% discount on your reservation. When you come in for your adventure, we do ask that you show your military ID. Law enforcement officers also receive a 15% discount.

And Panama City Beach isn’t called the #1 Spring Break Resort for nothing! Whether you’re here during Spring Break, or visiting during the rest of  the year, students receive a 15% discount when they book online. Again, we do ask that you show your student ID when you come in for your adventure.

Visitors

Staying with friends? Local resident looking for a parasailing adventure or deep sea fishing trip between now (December) and March, you may be eligible for a 20% discount on your booking.

Other Panama City Beach Coupons

Looking for other sorts of deals in the Panama City Beach area? We know what you’re looking for. Here’s the Groupon page for our area, complete with restaurants, bars, and local night life spots. You can also find deals for spas and beauty salons or health and fitness locations. If you’ll be in PCB for the entire season, you may even want to make use of the home services or automotive services sections.

Many local organizations also offer discounts and deals through the Chamber of Commerce. Check out the different options available, from places to stay to special discount cards.

There used to be a certain school of thought that looking for deals on vacation was somehow less than classy. We all know better now. Whether you’re in Florida for a long weekend or the entire season, it only makes sense to spend your dollar wisely. Many local establishments are happy to reward you for choosing their business; enjoy these Panama City Beach coupons, and enjoy your stay!

(please note that these coupons are active as of December 23,2015. For current information, please look at our coupon page itself. Have a lovely stay!)

Panama City Beach Holidays – Excitement Throughout The Year

Panama City Beach just celebrated its 35th annual Christmas Parade, put on by the Optimist Club, on December 12. A great reminder that the white sands and deep green waters of PCB aren’t just for summer beach adventures, but exciting vacations all year round. There are tons of opportunities to spend  holidays in Panama City Beach, leading to tons of one-of-a-kind adventures.

Each year, the Christmas Parade is just one of the many events put on by the Optimists Club. Transforming Pier Park into a Winter Wonderland is no easy task, but it’s also a rewarding adventure. Kids and families alike love to see their Florida homes turned into a spectacle of delight, and everyone enjoys the parade and fun.

The Optimists Club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from golf tournaments in March to Firefighter Appreciation in September, and Christmas events in December. Many of the events are free to the public, and donations are generally specified for local charities.

The Chamber of Commerce also organizes a variety of events throughout the year, often centered on a variety of holidays. In Panama City Beach, there are two ball drops on New Year’s Eve; earlier in the day, a family friendly ball drop centers on tossing beach balls onto the beach, while a traditional lighted ball descends at midnight on the beach itself. From events as big as New Year’s Eve to holidays as quiet and calm as Arbor Day, the Chamber of Commerce works hard to bring a variety of celebrations to Panama City Beach’s holidays.

If you want to find smaller, more local events to celebrate in Panama City beach, there are a variety of events through the winter season, from local markets to concerts and art exhibitions.

Mardi Gras is always a big draw for Panama City Beach holidays, from local residents to visiting friends. Many of February’s events for 2016 are already on the books, meaning that it’s easy for you to start planning ahead on how you want to spend this amazing, cultural holiday. If the answer is “with great friends, on exquisite beaches with some of the most beautiful water in the world,” then you’ll want to plan to spend Mardi Gras in PCB. Along with more adult events, Panama City Beach focuses on making sure that the day is fun for the whole family, kids included.

And of course, even if it isn’t really a holiday for the rest of the world, Panama City Beach isn’t called the Spring Break Capital of the World for nothing. Many venues have started announcing their 2016 events, so we know that visitors will be able to see Brett Eldredge, Kaskade, and many more amazing musicians. Many resorts, bars, and restaurants, cater to students during spring break, making sure that visitors get the best possible bang for their buck.

Whatever holiday you’re looking to spend in Panama City Beach, we want to make it as fun as possible. When your celebration is done, and you’re looking for something fun to do, make an exciting memory out on the water with one of the many events and tours that we offer at Adventures at Sea. Give us a call to see where we’ll fit in your schedule!

Looking for fun activities in Panama City Beach for Spring Break?

If you’re planning to head down to Panama City Beach for Spring Break next year, you’re probably looking at music line-ups, hotel reservations, and wondering what other fun activities there are in Panama City Beach. When you’re looking for a special memory of a wild trip you took with friends, come to Adventures at Sea. We have an adventure for everyone!

We were delighted to hear that Rascal Flatts will be headlining the Panama City Beach SpringJam Festival. The festival itself lasts from April 7 to 9, and Rascal Flatts will take the stage on April 9.

Whether you’re opting for a three day pass or a single day pass to the SpringJam Festival, you are probably looking for other fun things to do in Panama City Beach. At Adventures at Sea, we’ve got you covered.

The festival grounds open each day at 3:30, which means that you have every morning free to sunbathe, enjoy the gorgeous Florida weather, and visit the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast. Many visitors consider April the perfect month to visit Florida; the temperatures are in the high 70s, the sun is bright and strong, but tourist season Isn’t yet in full swing.

If you want to spend your morning soaking in some sun, we can help you by renting you a lounge chair. After all, lying on a beach towel means you’ll end up with sand everywhere, and bringing your own lounge chair on your spring break vacation is frustrating. When you rent a lounge chair from us, we’ll position it for you, and if you need it moved, we’ll take care of it. We’ll make everything simple so that you can focus on relaxing.

If you’re spending your moment on the beach, but want something fun to break up the morning, consider a banana boat ride. You and five friends will be towed along behind one of our boats, splashing through the waves and enjoying the wild ride. You could spend your morning parasailing, seeing the view of the beach and water that only the birds usually get to see. If someone in your group has a physical difference that makes banana boating or Jet Skiing difficult, parasailing can be an excellent and inclusive choice.

But if you’re only interested in one or two events at the festival, and are looking for ways to fill a little more time, we have several options that might intrigue you. You could schedule a dolphin tour, where we take you to all the places where local wild dolphin schools congregate. You could also take a trip out to Shell Island, one of the last undeveloped areas in Florida, to collect shells or sunbathe in an untouched environment.

Or maybe you’re looking for a little bit of peace and quiet in the middle of your Spring Break excitement. Consider taking a fishing trip. When you charter a trip with us, you don’t have to worry about gear or a fishing license; you get the benefit of our experience, from the best bait to the best way to cook your catch. If you’re not interested in cooking the fish yourself, we can direct you to some of the local restaurants that specialize in cooking fresh caught fish.

You could also take a sailboat trip. If you’ve never been sailing, it’s something to try. There’s something incredibly different about moving over the water, only the wind driving you along. Even if—especially if—the rest of your Spring Break plans are wild and exciting, make some time for something quiet and contemplative. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.

Looking for fun activities in Panama City Beach, either for Spring Break or for your next family vacation? We have you covered. Contact us today to schedule your next adv

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