The best affordable (or free) family friendly activities to do in Panama City Beach.

When vacationing in Panama City Beach there is truly a top attraction. The sandy beach and gorgeous waters are what bring millions of people here each year. We also know that visitors are always looking for additional fun activities to do when they visit!

Some of our favorites activities to do with our family are fun and affordable!

Frank Brown Park

Playground at Frank Brown Park

Located off of back beach road near highway 79 and Park is an amazing multi-use park that offers many different options for locals and visitors alike. The Frank Brown Park playground has activities for toddlers all the way to teens and is completely free to the public. The younger children areas are covered which is perfect for those super sunny days! There are basketball courts as well! The dog park is perfect for bringing your pup to play! Take a nice long walk at Gayle’s trails! For those that like to skateboard there is an amazing skate park. There is also a youth fishing pond to check out.

The aquatic center that offers a fun area for kids and lap pools for swimmers.

Frank brown park also hosts some fantastic events throughout the year such as their giant Easter egg hunt.

Learn more about hours and all the exciting options here: Frank Brown Park | City of Panama City Beach, FL

Camp Helen State Park

Beautiful peak through of Lake Powell at Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen is located just on the other side of lake Powell as you head towards 30a. This state park is 180 acres in size and has access to both a coastal dune lake and the beautiful gulf beaches. Take a hike on the beautiful trails, paddle board in the lake or walk the gorgeous beaches! Learn about the rich history associated with the park while you’re there! They offer great events during different times of the year from concerts to the pumpkin patch. Learn more here:

Camp Helen State Park

Conservation Park

Walk in Conservation Park

Conservation park is located on the west end of Panama City Beach off of back beach road. The park totals 2900 acres and has 12 different trails to choose from! You will see guests with their pups and babies walking the shorter trails and the longer trails! Enjoy nature and look for unique wildlife such as a variety of birds and insects!

Learn more here

Conservation Park | City of Panama City Beach, FL

St Andrews State Park

The Jetties at St. Andrews State Park

Enjoy the jetties and the “kiddie pool” and a unique landscape of beach on the east end of Panama City Beach. There are 1.5 miles of beach inside the park. The park offers camping and glamping. You can snorkel and scuba! There is a shuttle to shell island as well. Picnic, enjoy nice trials and the best sunset views!

St. Andrews State Park | Florida State Parks

Shell Island

A great “secret” of the area. Take a boat to shell island. Whether it‘s a tour, a rental or your own boat. Shell island is a special and unique place. With a bay side and a secluded beach side that offers the most crystal clear water of the area. It’s simply a place everyone should visit at some point! It’s a very popular location destination and offers a unique experience. Pack your snacks and if you’re really wanting to live like a local bring a pub sub (a sandwich from Publix) and a big cooler!