Panama City Beach Watersports: Jet Skiing, Paddleboarding, and Much More

Panama City Beach is known far and wide for its natural coastal beauty, fun activities, and abundant opportunities for adventure. Nearly 30 miles of scenic Gulf coastline make it a top choice for vacationers of all ages and skill levels looking to chase fun and thrills through an array of exciting watersports. Vacation Escapes’ area condo rentals offer the perfect home base for these wet and wild activities. Get the details on the best Panama City Beach watersports, from jet skiing and paddleboarding to kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, parasailing, and beyond.

Jet Ski Rentals and Tours in Panama City Beach

Jet skiing is one of the most thrilling ways to explore the waters of Panama City Beach, and the area offers plenty of opportunities for both jet ski rentals and guided tours. One especially popular area destination for jet skiers is Shell Island, a 7-mile-long barrier island that’s part of St. Andrews State Park on the southeastern end of Panama City Beach. This completely undeveloped island is a must-visit if you’re looking to cruise clear waters, explore pristine beaches, and see wildlife such as dolphins, deer, ghost crabs, and sea turtles.

A few of the most popular jet ski rental companies in Panama City Beach include Lagoon Pontoons, Adventures at Sea, and AAA Jet Ski, and the latter two of these also offer jet ski-powered dolphin tours.

Panama City Beach Kayaking and SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding)

For a more laid-back experience on the area’s calmer waters, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offer the perfect mix of relaxation, fitness, adventure, and scenic views — plus frequent chances to get up-close looks at the area’s vibrant marine life. Some of the best spots in the area for kayak and SUP excursions include St. Andrews State Park, Shell Island, and the Grand Lagoon.

Numerous local businesses provide kayak and SUP rentals, with popular options like Panama City Paddleboards and Paradise Adventures, and Beach Rentals even offering rental gear delivery. Various local outfitters also offer eco-tours through the area’s bay, marshes, and estuaries, where you can regularly spot dolphins, sea turtles, and coastal birds. Top providers in the area include Coldwater Excursions and All Inclusive Adventures.

Panama City Beach Parasailing

Parasailing takes thrill-seekers hundreds of feet above the Gulf to experience high-flying adventure and bird’s-eye views of the area’s white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and marine life. Banana boat rides are also popular, offering a fast-paced, bouncy journey across the local waters. These are perfect for groups looking for a fun and thrilling experience.

Several local companies specialize in providing safe and exhilarating parasail and banana boat excursions. Some of the top-rated companies in the area that offer one or both include Paradise Watersports, Panama City Parasail, and Adventures at Sea.

Fishing in Panama City Beach

With its prime location on the Gulf, Panama City Beach is a top destination for anglers of all skill levels. And whether you’re looking to reel in a trophy catch on a deep-sea fishing charter or enjoy a laid-back day casting a line in the bay, there are plenty of opportunities to do either in the area. Some of the best spots for fishing in Panama City Beach include St. Andrews Bay and the Grand Lagoon, and the area’s offshore reefs are loaded with grouper, snapper, and king mackerel.

For a relaxed fishing trip, pontoon boat rentals provide a great option for families and groups who want to explore at their own pace. Many rental companies offer fully equipped boats complete with fishing gear, coolers, and GPS navigation to make the excursion especially easy.

First-time anglers should come prepared with essentials like sunscreen, plenty of water, and a fishing license (where required). Local tackle shops can provide expert advice on the best bait and techniques for targeting specific fish. For those looking for a guided experience, some of the area’s top charter companies include Capt. Anderson’s Marina, Jubilee Deep Sea Fishing, and Florida Panhandle Charters.

Panama City Beach Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Panama City Beach offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving on the Gulf Coast, thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and reefs and shipwrecks to explore. Shell Island’s calm, shallow waters offer great underwater visibility for snorkeling. Divers and snorkelers can also see tropical fish, crabs, and even the occasional sea turtle in St. Andrews State Park. For those looking to dive deeper, the Panama City Beach area offers scuba diving highlights including artificial reefs, sunken bridges, and famous wreck sites like the Black Bart and USS Strength.

Both gear rentals and guided tours are widely available from scuba vendors in the area. Panama City Diving, Diver’s Den, and Red Alert Diving offer dive shops, certification courses, and guided dive trips.

Planning Your Panama City Beach Watersports Adventure

A little planning goes a long way. Consider these tips for smooth and stress-free watersports adventure during your Gulf Coast vacation:

The Best Times for Watersports

Watersports are a draw in Panama City Beach year-round, but the best conditions are found from late spring through early fall, when the water is warm and the Gulf is typically calm. Summer is the busiest season, so booking in advance is essential; late spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and great weather.

What To Pack for a Day on the Water

Bringing the right gear can keep you comfortable and prepared for a day of fun on the water. Here's what to pack before heading out:

• Sunscreen and sunglasses - Protect yourself from the strong Florida sun.
• Water and snacks - Stay hydrated and energized.
• Towel and change of clothes - Both are essential when you’ll be getting wet.
• Waterproof bag - This can help you keep phones, wallets, and other valuables dry.
• Proper footwear - Water shoes or sandals with straps work best for most watersports.

Tips for Watersports Safety

No matter which watersport you choose to enjoy in Panama City Beach, safety should always come first. Keep these essential safety tips in mind:

• Wear a life jacket when appropriate. PFDs are required for certain activities, but are always recommended for safety near or in the water.
• Follow local rules. Age restrictions and boater safety courses may apply.
• Respect wildlife. Keep a safe distance from dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.
• Check the weather and water conditions. Avoid rough waters, rip currents, and sudden storms, and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.

Where To Stay in Panama City Beach

After a day enjoying the local waters, it’s nice to have a short ride home to your accommodations in the Panama City Beach area. Our PCB condos deliver both comfort and convenience during your Florida Gulf coast getaway. These spacious amenity-packed condo rentals are located right on the beach and offer easy access to Panama City Beach watersports, as well as top area attractions like Gulf World and Pier Park.

• Landmark Holiday Beach Resort – Best for families and groups. Located right on the beach, this resort offers spacious accommodations and easy access to jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and more.
• Panama City Resort & Club – Great for couples or small families. Enjoy a quieter, laid-back atmosphere with direct beach access—perfect for relaxing after a day of action on the water.
• Bay Club of Sandestin – Ideal for travelers looking to mix watersports with upscale amenities. Located just outside PCB, this resort offers access to boating, paddleboarding, golf, dining, and spa experiences.

Discover the perfect Panama City Beach vacation rental and start planning your watersports adventure today!