Pier Park in Panama City Beach is one of those places where you can spend an entire day without getting bored, blending shopping, entertainment, and dining with beautiful beach views and access to the Gulf of Mexico. Visiting Pier Park feels like the heart of the city with an energetic buzz, whether you’re shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or simply walking around and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Shopping at Pier Park
The shopping at Pier Park is impressive, with over 120 stores to explore. Whether you’re looking for beachwear, gifts, or just want to browse, it offers a mix of national retailers like Target, Old Navy, and H&M, alongside smaller local boutiques that capture the beach-town vibe. Personally, I love the fact that it combines the touristy shops and regular shopping in one convenient and cool location. This variety makes it easy to find everything from practical items for a day at the beach to unique souvenirs. And it is a walkable and enjoyable open-air shopping experience where you can feel the Gulf breeze and hear the sounds of live music playing in the distance, which adds a relaxed, yet upbeat ambiance.
Dining at Pier Park
When it comes to dining, Pier Park has something for every taste and mood. My personal favorite is grabbing a burger and a frozen cocktail at Margaritaville, sitting on their outdoor deck with views of the Gulf just enhances that laid-back, vacation vibe.
For something sweet, a visit to Kilwin’s for fudge or ice cream is always a treat, and it’s the perfect way to cool off after shopping or walking along the pier. The variety of dining options here makes it easy to find a great spot, whether you want a sit-down dinner or just a snack while strolling through the shops.
Entertainment Options
Beyond shopping and dining, Pier Park is a hub for entertainment. One of the coolest spots is The Grand 16 IMAX Theater. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the sun and catch a movie if you’re spending the whole day in the area. There’s also Dave & Buster’s, where you can play arcade games and grab a bite to eat, this spot is always a hit with families or groups of friends looking for some lighthearted fun.
The live music and outdoor events at Pier Park are a big draw for me too. I’ve caught local bands performing on the outdoor stage, which just adds to the festive feel of the area. Throughout the year, Pier Park hosts various festivals, concerts, and events, making it a lively and ever-changing experience.
The Pier
Walking out onto the Russell-Fields Pier, which is right next to Pier Park, is a must-do. This pier is one of the longest on the Gulf Coast and offers stunning views of the emerald waters stretching out beneath you. It’s a twin pier to the County Pier in the east side of Panama City Beach. It’s a great place for fishing (you can rent gear right on the pier), or just a peaceful spot to take a walk and enjoy the views. I find it particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset, where the sky and water seem to blend together in shades of pink, orange, and gold.
The pier also provides a perfect vantage point for watching dolphins, sea turtles, or even a fisherman reeling in a catch. There’s something calming about being out on the pier, with the waves crashing below and the endless horizon in front of you.
The Beaches
The beaches surrounding Pier Park are absolutely stunning. As soon as you cross the street from the shopping and entertainment district, you’re greeted by the soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters that make Panama City Beach famous. I love how accessible it is. You can shop and eat, then head straight to the beach without moving your car. It’s the best of both worlds for anyone who wants to mix a day of retail therapy with some beach time.
The beach here tends to be lively, with plenty of families, groups of friends, and beachgoers enjoying the sun and surf. You can rent chairs and umbrellas, or simply lay out your towel and enjoy the scenery. On busy days, you’ll find lots of beach activities like volleyball or paddleboarding, and of course, the water is perfect for swimming.
If you’re staying for the day, this section of the beach is well-equipped, with public restrooms, showers, and food options nearby, making it easy to spend hours soaking up the sun.
The Energy and Vibe
Pier Park has this unique energy that’s hard to describe until you experience it. It’s part beach town, part shopping haven, and part entertainment district. You feel the vibrant, friendly atmosphere as soon as you arrive. Whether it’s families with kids enjoying an afternoon at the beach, couples browsing the shops, or groups of friends enjoying a night out, there’s a sense that everyone is there to enjoy the best of what Panama City Beach has to offer.
