Nestled in the panhandle of the great state of Florida is a nations gem that is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations that America offers. Welcome to the Real Fun Beach, Panama City Beach, Florida! Known as a waterfront town and vacation destination, Panama City Beach (also known as PCB) boasts miles of white-sand beaches with crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, world renowned cuisine and southern hospitality unlike any other. Whether you are visiting St. Andrews State Park, one of 2 protected nature preserves nearby, shopping at the Pier Park outdoor shopping mall or enjoying an array of water activities; anyone can enjoy countless excursions in Panama City Beach. Join me as I #VisitPCB!

The Accommodations

When I received word that I was visiting Panama City Beach, Florida, I was thrilled to say the least. Besides loving “The Sunshine State,” I have always heard of "The World's Most Beautiful Beaches" along the panhandle and there is no denying that the sayings are true. During my visit, I was lucky enough to stay at the only AAA Four Diamond Rated resort in Panama City Beach. Known as a Florida vacation destination for generations of memories, the property was built in the 1980s and reopened as Sheraton Bay Point Resort in 2017 after an impressive $30 million-dollar renovation and rebranding.

Throw in the amazing staff; this resort is almost heaven on earth. I arrived to be greeted by the doorman Adam who went over and beyond to ensure my arrival was terrific. Once I made it to the front desk, the agent Michael made sure I was well informed about all of the amenities that the resort has to offer. From the natural beauty of the property, the modern new design, distinctive resort dining options, more than 60,000 sq. ft. of group space, and full service spa; it was clear upon arrival why Sheraton Bay Point Resort is a Florida visiting guest favorite.

No bragging here, but add the Nicklaus Design golf course, a private bay beach (which I loved), three pools, direct boat access to Shell Island, water sports and tennis, the Sheraton Bay Point Resort literally is an oasis!

Relaxation

I was lucky enough to indulge in world-class pampering at the award-winning Serenity Spa at Sheraton Bay Point Resort! Serenity welcomes you to step out of reality and into serenity in its 12,000 sq. ft. facility featuring exclusive amenities from sauna and whirlpool to the Reflection zero-entry pool offering calming vistas of St. Andrews Bay. Like myself, you can enjoy an expertly administered soothing massage of your choice followed by the amazing amenities that are offered. No matter what the occasion, Serenity Spa can provide an unforgettable, customized, and luxurious experience for you, your friends, family, staff, coworkers, bridesmaids or groomsmen!

While in Panama City Beach, make your next escape to the tranquility and elegance of Serenity Spa and feel your daily stresses melt away.

Cuisine

It is very easy to spend your day at the beach from sun up to down (literally) but somewhere in between, you’ve got to grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner right? Don’t worry; you definitely will not go hungry in Panama City Beach. The area may specialize in seafood, but there is not a shortage of other options. Whether you are hungry for some Southern-style pulled pork or a juicy, tender steak, solo or surf-n-turf, some of the best restaurants in Panama City Beach specialize in cuisine from around the world.

If you are staying at the Sheraton Bay Point Resort, step downstairs to their signature restaurant, Tides. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offering beautiful views of the Grand Lagoon and St. Andrews Park, you cannot go wrong. I started my mornings off with the Traditional Breakfast dish but there is also a breakfast buffet option

For dinner, there is no denying the deliciousness that you will find at The Grand Marlin Restaurant. Between time and tide, The Grand Marlin serves a fresh and delicious flare of items while overlooking the Grand Lagoon. My evening dinner started with the Crispy Lobster Fingers served with vanilla bean infused honey mustard sauce.

I decided to go big for entrée and boy was I in for a succulent surprise. The 14 ounce 1855 Angus rib eye served with herb roasted fingerling potatoes and seasonal vegetables what described as the best-cut meat in Panama City Beach and after my first bite, I surely believed it. Special thanks to my wonderful server Natalie who made sure my accommodations were impeccable.

Things To Do

Panama City Beach may be best known for the emerald green waters and sugar white sand, but there is a wealth of fun and exciting activities all around the beach too! If you are a guest at the Sheraton Bay Point Resort, grab a Yolo bike or walk through trails, fish with your kids, or have fun while exercising at their tennis courts, in one of their 3 pools and more. For those who love the outdoors, the Conservation Park is perfect for anyone that enjoys nature, hiking, and biking. Encompassing over 2900 acres, the Conservation Park has 24 miles of trails and over a mile of boardwalks that lead thru Cypress domes. If shopping is your thing, Pier Park is the “always growing” attraction to the beach, bringing up-scale shopping, dining, entertainment, and so much more. Whatever you are into, Panama City Beach has it.

On A Personal Note

I thoroughly enjoyed PCB. I had the opportunity to interact with locals and everyone was warm and welcoming. There is no denying that Panama City Beach is truly a year round, friendly family destination. The town was easy to navigate throughout and I had no problem fitting in. The Sheraton Bay Point Resort accommodations were outstanding. The staff really goes out of their way to make you feel as if you are home. The property is definitely highly recommended. Special Thanks to Charlotte Park of Lou Hammond Group, Catie Feeney of Visit Panama City Beach, Nancy Click and Anna Dower of The Mayfield Group and Charissa Thacker of The Sheraton Bay Point Resort. For more information visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com and www.sheratonbaypoint.com.