• What makes Panama City Beach a great destination?
    • Panama City Beach is one of the Gulf of Mexico's loveliest beachfront destinations, home to more than 27 miles of pristine white sands and glistening turquoise waters.
  • What activities can couples enjoy in Panama City Beach?
    • Couples traveling to the area can enjoy world-renowned scuba diving, swimming, and fishing experiences at dozens of public beach access points.
  • Are there natural parks in Panama City Beach?
    • Visitors can also peruse the trails and natural areas of the region's two lovely state parks.
  • Where can visitors enjoy the best dining in Panama City Beach?
    • Spectacular sunsets are showcased from many of the city's best waterfront dining rooms, which serve up high-quality fresh seafood entrées and delicious fried fish platters.

Unique Restaurants in Panama City Beach, Florida:

⮕ Dine Under Twinkling Lights at Firefly


Elegant yet relaxed, this award-winning restaurant offers sushi, steak, and seafood in a dreamy, tree-lit setting.

Dine Under Twinkling Lights at Firefly

© Firefly

Firefly is an award-winning dining gem in Panama City Beach, owned and operated by executive chef Derek Langford and restaurateur Dave Trepanier. Since opening in 2007, Firefly has garnered numerous accolades, offering guests a memorable, elegant experience.

Recommended For: Romantic dinners, fine-dining enthusiasts, seafood lovers, and anyone seeking an award-winning culinary experience in a Mediterranean bistro setting.

  • Indulge in elegant dishes like espresso-rubbed pork shanks, brown butter-seared scallops, and shrimp with summer vegetable pasta.
  • Relax in the Mediterranean-inspired dining room or catch the game at the full-service bar with top-shelf cocktails.
  • Visit the 535 Library Lounge for an impressive selection of fine wines.
  • Explore the raw bar offerings and fresh sushi options at the on-site sushi bar.
  • Experience why Firefly is consistently celebrated as one of the region’s premier dining destinations.

Firefly, 535 N Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone: 850-249-3359

⮕ Kick Back Beachside at Runaway Island


Live music, sunset views, and fresh Gulf seafood make this casual eatery a go-to for coastal vibes and classic comfort.

Kick Back Beachside at Runaway Island

© Runaway Island

Runaway Island has been delighting guests for over two decades with high-quality local seafood, all served in a stunning bi-level space overlooking Panama City Beach.

Recommended For: Seafood lovers, beachgoers, families, and anyone craving delicious coastal fare with oceanfront views and lively entertainment.

  • Feast on favorites like blackened fish tacos, grilled mahi mahi with tomato key lime butter, and New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp.
  • Relax indoors across two dining levels or enjoy the ocean breeze on the outdoor deck.
  • Listen to live entertainment featured year-round, adding energy and fun to your meal.
  • Walk straight from the restaurant’s boardwalk onto the stunning white sands of Panama City Beach.
  • Visit for lunch or dinner to experience the perfect blend of great food, views, and atmosphere.

Runaway Island, 14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Phone: 850-634-4884

Date Ideas:

⮕ Savor Surf Meets Sophistication at Saltwater Grill


Known for its dramatic aquarium centerpiece, this polished spot pairs fine dining with Florida flair.

Savor Surf Meets Sophistication at Saltwater Grill

© Saltwater Grill

Saltwater Grill, opened in 2002 by executive chef Chris Joyner, is a beloved Panama City Beach dining spot centered around an impressive 25,000-gallon tropical saltwater aquarium filled with native Florida marine life.

Recommended For: Seafood enthusiasts, couples, steak lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable dining experience paired with a stunning aquarium backdrop.

  • Enjoy Gulf-fresh favorites like snapper Ponchartrain, sesame-seared tuna, grouper Imperial, and bronzed mahi mahi.
  • Dine in a unique setting with clear views of the spectacular saltwater aquarium.
  • Pair your meal with expertly prepared USDA Prime steaks and fine game entrées.
  • Take advantage of happy hour and early bird specials, including delicious drinks and light bites.
  • Experience an elegant yet approachable atmosphere perfect for couples and special occasions.

Saltwater Grill, 11040 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone: 850-230-2739

If you love casual eateries, check out this video of the History Class Brewing Company.

⮕ Experience Gulf-to-Table Excellence at The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar


Located just over the bridge, this upscale favorite serves oysters, cocktails, and waterfront views worth the drive.

Experience Gulf-to-Table Excellence at The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar

© The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar

The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar, located on Panama City Beach’s Lighthouse Marina, is a stunning waterfront dining destination. Overlooking the beautiful Grand Lagoon, the restaurant is celebrated for its high-quality daily seafood specials crafted from the freshest daily catches.

Recommended For: Seafood lovers, oyster enthusiasts, couples, and anyone looking for an elegant waterfront dining experience with shareable delicacies and craft cuisine.

  • Feast on daily seafood specials made from the freshest fish caught that day.
  • Delight in oysters sourced from Apalachicola and East Bay, shucked fresh to order at the raw bar.
  • Savor house specialties like Loved and Rubbed Scottish salmon with caramelized rub and lemon butter.
  • Share unique small plates like crispy lobster fingers paired with vanilla bean-infused honey mustard sauce.
  • Enjoy beautiful views of Grand Lagoon while dining in a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.

The Grand Marlin, 5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Phone: 850-249-1500

⮕ If You’re Craving Sushi with Style, Grab a Seat at Fin’s Japanese Sushi and Grill


Creative rolls, hibachi flair, and modern design make this a standout for fans of Japanese cuisine by the beach.

If You’re Craving Sushi with Style, Grab a Seat at Fin’s Japanese Sushi and Grill

© Fin's Japanese Sushi and Grill

Fin's Japanese Sushi and Grill offers one of Panama City’s most authentic Asian dining experiences, renowned for its high-quality dine-in and takeout service and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. With a menu featuring traditional Japanese entrées made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Fin’s is a top choice for couples, families, and sushi lovers alike.

Recommended For: Sushi enthusiasts, families, couples, and anyone craving authentic Japanese cuisine in a welcoming, casual setting.

  • Enjoy delicious Japanese entrées like sautéed beef don, shrimp or salmon teriyaki, and hibachi-style plates with assorted vegetables and egg noodles.
  • Savor sushi combination platters crafted with precision and fresh ingredients.
  • Start your meal with Asian-style appetizers like agedashi tofu, pork shu mai, or savory gyoza.
  • Delight in seafood specialties such as soft-shell crab, crispy crab rangoons, and coconut shrimp.
  • Experience a relaxed, family-friendly environment perfect for both dine-in and takeout meals.

Fin's Japanese Sushi and Grill, 732 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL 32405
Phone: 850-769-0888

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