Panama City Beach at night hits differently. The tourist crowds thin out, the Gulf turns silver under the moon, and the real magic starts. From bonfires on the beach to bars where locals actually hang out, these are the best things to do in Panama City Beach at night that’ll make your trip unforgettable.
Skip the tacky tourist traps. Whether you’re catching live music at sunset, paddleboarding under the stars, or finding that perfect late-night seafood spot, this guide’s got you covered. Let’s make your nights in PCB count!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this sunset catamaran cruise through Panama City Beach’s Grand Lagoon! They take you past elegant coastal homes and St. Andrews State Park, plus access to wild dolphin pods playing in their natural habitat. You also experience the magical Gulf sunset from locals who know the best viewing spots. This catamaran cruise is absolutely a must-do on a PCB itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach at Night
Experience Panama City Beach after dark, from pristine beaches to thrilling water sports! Whether you’re seeking family fun at amusement parks, dolphin encounters, or beachfront dining, here are the best things to do in PCB at night.
1. Party at vibrant nightclubs and bars
Panama City Beach is an awesome nightlife destination with several top-notch bars and night clubs. Coyote Ugly Saloon leads the pack as the top nightclub destination, staying open until 4 AM with wild dancing and legendary bartender performances. I’ve spent a few nights here watching the staff dance on the bar – it never gets old.
Splash Bar offers another high-energy option with drag shows on Wednesday nights ($1 drink specials make it even better). For live music lovers, Pineapple Willy’s combines beachfront dining with late-night entertainment, while Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant serves up their famous Shark Attack cocktails – three ounces of rum that’ll definitely bite back. The scene has shifted from one mega-club to multiple intimate venues, creating a more diverse and authentic nightlife experience throughout the beach.
2. Sip craft beer at Panama City Beach’s growing brewery scene
History Class Brewing Company in downtown Panama City has honestly become one of my favorite spots for a mellow night out. This place is part pub, part museum, and the beer names actually tell stories about local history – which is way cooler than it sounds. They’ve got everything from salvaged church pews to an old fishing boat bow turned into bar seating. I love that there’s no fixed flagship beer here since the brewers are constantly experimenting with new brews.
The Craft Bar at Pier Park North is perfect if you want something closer to the beach action. They’re a legit gastropub with craft cocktails and from-scratch food that pairs really well with their rotating beer selection. The Brass Tap also at Pier Park keeps over 40 craft beers on tap, so you’ll definitely find something you like. What’s cool is how they house their beer taps in vintage gas pumps – it’s this fun garage-themed setup that actually works.
Most craft spots open around 3pm and stay open until midnight or later on weekends. Expect to spend $6-9 per pint, but happy hours usually run until 6pm with better prices. I’d definitely ask your bartender for recommendations since these guys actually know their stuff way better than typical beach bar servers.
3. Shop and eat at Pier Park after dark
Pier Park transforms into Panama City Beach’s evening entertainment hub once the sun sets. This massive outdoor shopping complex features over 250 stores and restaurants, staying open until 9 PM Monday through Saturday and 6 PM on Sundays. The real magic happens during extended summer hours when the boardwalk section operates until 10 PM daily.
Dave & Buster’s anchors the nighttime scene with arcade games, full bar service, and dinner until late hours. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge brings Nashville-style country music and dancing to the coast. I love grabbing dinner at The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House – their smoked tuna dip hits different when you’re watching the crowds stroll by.
Evening temperatures make shopping comfortable, and the complex regularly hosts live music and special events. Dick’s Last Resort provides dinner with a side of sassy service that’ll leave you laughing. The outdoor layout means you can people-watch while sipping cocktails, making it perfect for both shopping and nighttime entertainment.
4. Create bonfire memories with professional beach fire services
Beach bonfires in Panama City Beach have become this whole professional experience that’s honestly way better than trying to set up your own fire. Light Me Up Beach Bonfires and It’s Lit PCB handle everything – from beach permits to s’mores supplies to cleanup. I was skeptical at first, but having someone else deal with all the logistics while you just show up and enjoy the sunset is pretty awesome.
Coastal Sunset Bonfires and other local companies offer packages that include beach chairs, tiki torches, hammocks, and even professional photography. Some services will deliver food and drinks right to your bonfire spot. The cool thing is how they customize everything based on your group size – whether it’s a romantic date night for two or a family reunion for 20 people.
Most bonfire experiences run $150-400 depending on group size and add-ons. You’ll want to book at least 24 hours ahead, especially during peak season. The companies handle all the beach permits and follow fire safety regulations, so you don’t have to worry about any of that. They typically set up around sunset and let you enjoy the fire for 2-3 hours.
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5. Take an evening boat cruise
Grand Lagoon serves as the departure point for several evening cruise options that showcase Panama City Beach from the water. Cruisin’ Tikis offers BYOB floating tiki bar experiences, while traditional sunset cruises through Viator run about $45-65 per adult with dolphin watching included.
The Grand Lagoon area itself deserves exploration. It’s lined with waterfront restaurants offering sunset dining. I’ve found that booking the 6:30 PM departure gives you the perfect golden hour lighting as you cruise past elegant coastal homes and St. Andrews State Park. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include stops at prime dolphin spotting locations.
Evening water temperatures stay comfortable year-round, making these cruises enjoyable even in winter months. The calm protected waters of the lagoon provide a smooth ride, perfect for families or romantic dates. Captain’s expertise really shows – they know exactly where dolphins congregate and when lighting conditions peak for photos.
6. Sing your heart out at Panama City Beach’s karaoke hotspots
Runaway Island does karaoke several nights a week, and honestly, the crowd here gets pretty into it. It’s a two-story beachside spot where locals and tourists mix, so you’ll hear everything from classic rock to current hits. Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant hosts karaoke Monday nights starting at 5pm, and the ocean views make it feel way more special than your typical karaoke bar.
El Rodeo Tequila Bar & Grill does Thursday night karaoke from 5-10pm if you want something with more of a Mexican restaurant vibe. I’ve had some of my best karaoke experiences at Old Beach Bar on Friday and Sunday nights – it’s this dive bar atmosphere where everyone’s super supportive of each other.
Most venues don’t charge a cover for karaoke nights, but expect a two-drink minimum at some places. Shows typically run from 6pm to midnight, with sign-ups starting around 5pm. I always recommend getting there early to secure your song choice since popular nights fill up fast. The crowds tend to be pretty encouraging, so don’t stress if you’re not the best singer.
7. Dine at Grand Lagoon restaurants
The Grand Lagoon district offers Panama City Beach’s most sophisticated waterfront dining scene. Captain Anderson’s remains the crown jewel with fresh Gulf seafood and stunning sunset views – their grouper dinner runs around $28-32. The Grand Marlin provides upscale dining with craft cocktails and a raw bar that I consider essential for any foodie visiting the area.
Dinner reservations become crucial during peak season, especially for waterfront tables during sunset hours. Hunt’s Oyster Bar serves legendary chargrilled oysters that locals have been raving about for decades. The atmosphere ranges from casual dockside dining to white-tablecloth elegance, depending on your mood.
Many restaurants offer happy hour specials from 4-6 PM, making early evening the perfect time to sample multiple venues. Half Hitch Tackle & Tavern combines fishing outfitter vibes with surprisingly good seafood. Water views come standard at most locations, and the protected lagoon setting means you’ll spot dolphins, pelicans, and maybe even manatees while dining.
8. Test your skills with trivia nights and brain games around town
Trivia nights in Panama City Beach are surprisingly competitive, and I love how each spot has its own vibe. Sharky’s does trivia Tuesday nights starting at 5pm, and their questions cover everything from beach history to pop culture. Donovan’s Bar PCB hosts Tuesday night trivia at 6pm with a pretty laid-back crowd that actually knows their stuff.
Hammerhead Fred’s combines trivia with bingo on Wednesday nights from 5-8pm, which keeps things interesting. T’s on Thomas runs a “Free Trivia Tournament” Tuesday nights from 6-8pm, and they actually give away decent prizes. The Alibi Beach Lounge & Grill does Tuesday trivia from 6-8pm with a more local crowd that makes newcomers feel welcome.
Most trivia nights are free to play, though you’ll need to order food or drinks. Teams typically range from 2-6 people, and prizes usually include gift cards or bar tabs. I’d recommend showing up 15-20 minutes early to grab a good table and get your team registered. The questions vary by venue, but expect a mix of general knowledge, pop culture, and local history.
9. Walk Shell Island beaches at night
Shell Island offers a rare nighttime beach experience away from Panama City Beach’s developed shoreline. While the official Shell Island Shuttle stops running at 5 PM (March through October), private boat rentals or staying until the last shuttle creates magical sunset and early evening opportunities.
This 7-mile undeveloped barrier island becomes completely peaceful after day visitors leave. I’ve walked these pristine beaches at dusk and felt like I had the entire Gulf Coast to myself. The white sand glows under moonlight, and gentle waves provide natural soundtrack without any artificial lighting to spoil the atmosphere.
Shell Island Ferry charges $24.95 for adults and $17.95 for children, operating hourly during summer months. The ferry drops you at the jetty area, where calm bay waters meet Gulf waves. Wildlife becomes more active during cooler evening hours – ghost crabs emerge, and dolphins often feed closer to shore. Just remember to bring a flashlight for the return boat ride and check current shuttle schedules online before planning your evening adventure.
10. Throw axes and smash things at Panama City Beach’s newest attractions
Axe Throwing PCB on Richard Jackson Boulevard is honestly way more fun than I expected. The expert coaches teach you proper technique, and even if you’ve never thrown an axe before, you’ll be hitting targets pretty quickly. They’ve got this tournament-style setup where teams compete, and I actually love the competitive atmosphere without it being too intense.
Axe Throwing Pier Park offers a more central location if you’re already hanging around Pier Park. Both places have safety gear and coaches who make sure everyone knows what they’re doing. Some locations also have “Rage Rooms” where you can smash plates, bottles, and even TVs with a baseball bat – which is surprisingly therapeutic after a long day.
Sessions typically run $20-35 per person for 30-60 minutes, and you’ll want to book ahead on weekends. Kids as young as 6 can participate with proper supervision. Most places are open 11am-10pm daily, staying open until 11pm on weekends. I’d recommend closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes since you’ll be moving around quite a bit.
11. Play glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Race City
Race City transforms into a neon wonderland after dark with their Putt-in-Glow Blacklight Mini Golf – the only indoor blacklight course in Panama City Beach. The air-conditioned 9-hole course provides perfect relief from Florida heat while immersing you in a fantasy world of glowing obstacles and magical illusions.
Individual mini golf costs around $8-12, but I recommend their unlimited armband deals for families planning to enjoy multiple attractions. The blacklight effects make every hole feel like stepping into a different universe, with dinosaur themes and vibrant colors that photograph amazingly under UV lighting. The course difficulty suits all ages while remaining challenging enough for competitive adults.
Race City operates year-round with extended hours during summer season (typically noon to midnight daily). Beyond mini golf, the complex features go-kart tracks, arcade games, and thrill rides, making it easy to spend an entire evening here. The indoor location means weather never cancels your plans, and the blacklight experience genuinely differs from traditional outdoor courses you’ll find elsewhere along the beach.
12. Get your game on at arcade bars and entertainment centers
Point Break Arcade is this awesome combo of classic arcade games and craft beer that I honestly didn’t expect to find in a beach town. They’ve got everything from 1980s classics to modern pinball machines, plus Xbox and PlayStation setups. One price gets you all-day access to games, which is pretty sweet if you’re planning to hang out for a while.
Dave & Buster’s at Pier Park brings that full arcade experience with restaurant-quality food and a full bar. The game selection is massive, and they’ve got both retro games and the newest stuff. Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade combines mini golf with arcade games in this cool black light environment that’s perfect for groups.
Most arcade bars charge $15-25 for all-day game access, or you can pay per game at places like Dave & Buster’s. Many spots serve full food menus and craft cocktails, so you can easily spend a whole evening there. I’d recommend going during weekday evenings or later weekend nights to avoid the kid crowds if you want a more adult atmosphere.
13. Go night snorkeling at St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park offers guided night snorkeling adventures that reveal the Gulf’s hidden nocturnal marine life. Local outfitters like Adventures at Sea and Paradise Watersports provide equipment and underwater lights for $45-65 per person, depending on group size and duration.
The park’s jetty area becomes particularly active after sunset as nocturnal fish emerge from their daytime hiding spots. I’ve spotted octopi, crabs, and bioluminescent organisms that simply don’t appear during daylight hours. The experience feels like exploring an alien underwater world, with your light beam revealing colors and creatures invisible to day snorkelers.
Water temperatures in the Gulf stay comfortable year-round, typically ranging from 65°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Night snorkeling requires basic swimming skills but welcomes beginners with proper instruction. The protected jetty area provides calm conditions perfect for learning, while advanced snorkelers can venture toward more dynamic open water areas. Most tours last 1.5-2 hours and include all necessary gear plus safety briefings.
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14. Hunt for late-night eats at Panama City Beach’s hidden food gems
Diego’s Burrito Factory stays open late and honestly serves some of the best build-your-own burritos on the beach. Their margaritas are solid too, and the laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a casual late dinner. The Wicked Wheel is this Southern comfort food spot with biker-bar flair that I stumbled upon one night – their fried chicken is absolutely worth the hunt.
Food trucks near the beach change seasonally, but you’ll often find tacos, BBQ, and loaded fries available until midnight during peak season. Shunk Gulley Liquor & Wine actually has a surprisingly good selection of grab-and-go items if you need late-night snacks. I’ve discovered some of my favorite hole-in-the-wall spots just by walking around after 10pm when the tourist crowds thin out.
Most food trucks accept cards now, but cash is still king for the best deals. Hours vary seasonally, with more late-night options during spring and summer. I’d recommend checking social media to see which trucks will be where since locations and schedules change regularly. Don’t overlook convenience stores near hotels – many have better hot food than you’d expect.
15. Ride the SkyWheel Panama City Beach at sunset
The SkyWheel at Pier Park reaches nearly 200 feet high, offering spectacular sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico. Climate-controlled gondolas accommodate up to 6 people for the 10-15 minute experience that includes 4 complete rotations. Adult tickets run $22-28, with discounts available for military (50% off on Veterans Day), AAA members (10% off), and seniors 65+ (10% off).
Sunset timing varies seasonally, but booking the 30 minutes before official sunset guarantees optimal lighting conditions. I’ve ridden this wheel countless times, and the view never disappoints – you can see the entire Panama City Beach coastline, St. Andrews State Park, and miles of emerald waters stretching to the horizon.
The wheel operates Monday-Friday 1 PM to 8 PM and weekends 11 AM to 8 PM, with extended summer hours until 10 PM. Special VIP gondolas offer enhanced experiences for celebrations. The location within Pier Park means you can easily combine the ride with shopping, dining, or arcade games at Dave & Buster’s. Advanced online booking saves money and guarantees your preferred time slot during busy seasons.
16. Capture sunset photos at Panama City Beach’s most Instagram-worthy spots
Professional beach photography has become huge in Panama City Beach, and honestly, the sunset shots are incredible here. Smiles Beach Photo has photographers stationed at key spots like Russell-Fields Pier, Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant, and St. Andrews State Park who know exactly where to position you for the best light.
Harpoon Harry’s and Runaway Island offer great elevated deck views for sunset photos without needing a professional photographer. The SkyWheel gives you that aerial perspective that’s impossible to get anywhere else, though you’ll need to time it right with sunset hours. I actually love the candid shots you can get at beach bonfire services since they often include professional photography in their packages.
Most beach photographers charge $50-150 for sunset sessions, with photos available for viewing immediately afterward at their studios. Golden hour starts about an hour before sunset, which varies seasonally from around 6pm in winter to 8pm in summer. I’d recommend booking sunset photography sessions at least 48 hours in advance, especially during peak season when photographers fill up quickly.
17. Join a ghost tour in historic St. Andrews
St. Andrews Ghost Tours operate year-round, exploring the supernatural side of this historic Panama City Beach district. Tours typically run $25-30 per adult and last 1.5-2 hours, departing from downtown St. Andrews at 8 PM on weekends (schedule varies by season).
The historic downtown area provides perfect atmosphere with its century-old buildings and moss-draped streets. I’ve learned more about local history on these tours than from any guidebook – stories of shipwrecks, Civil War ghosts, and mysterious disappearances that shaped this coastal community. Guides blend documented historical facts with local folklore, creating entertainment that educates while it entertains.
St. Andrews offers several restaurants and bars perfect for pre-tour dinner or post-tour drinks. The walkable downtown district feels authentically old Florida, with antique shops and art galleries providing daytime exploration opportunities. Most tours are family-friendly, though some content might be intense for very young children. The outdoor walking format makes this a great group activity that doesn’t require special skills or equipment.
18. Explore Panama City’s downtown ale trail and social district
The Panama City Ale Trail lets you hop between breweries and beer-forward restaurants in the downtown Panama City area, which is honestly cooler than staying on the beach sometimes. Uncle Ernie’s rooftop martini bar has been voted the best sunset spot in Bay County, and their craft beer selection pairs perfectly with those views.
House of Henry combines craft beer with trivia, line dancing, and live music in this cozy Irish pub atmosphere. The Grocery Kitchen & Taproom rotates local events and has this welcoming vibe where locals and tourists actually mix. What’s cool is that downtown Panama City is a designated social district, so you can grab a to-go cup and wander between stops while browsing boutiques and checking out street art.
Most downtown spots are open until midnight or 2am on weekends, with happy hour specials typically running until 6pm. The social district allows open containers during designated hours, usually starting around 11am. I’d recommend starting your ale trail adventure around 5pm to catch happy hour pricing, then working your way through 3-4 spots over the evening.
19. Catch live music at local venues
Panama City Beach’s live music scene spans multiple venues offering everything from country to rock to beach music. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge at Pier Park brings Nashville-style country music with live bands most nights. Pineapple Willy’s features beachfront performances where you can hear waves between songs – I love their Sunday afternoon acoustic sets.
Newby’s and Newby’s Too serve the local crowd with eclectic music ranging from rock to reggae, plus their famous Hunch Punch that’ll have you dancing whether you planned to or not. Schooners offers one of the most relaxed atmospheres, with live music on their Gulf-front deck that continues until sunrise during peak season.
Cover charges typically range from free to $10, depending on the venue and performer. Most bars feature music Thursday through Sunday, with extended schedules during spring break and summer months. The variety means you can bar hop and experience different genres in one evening. Local musicians often rotate between venues, so regulars become familiar faces in the scene.
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20. Experience Schooners’ famous sunset cannon ritual and late-night scene
Schooners Last Local Beach Club has this incredible tradition where they fire an old cannon every single night at sunset, rain or shine. I’ve been to a lot of beach bars, but honestly, watching the crowd count down to that cannon blast creates this amazing sense of community that brings everyone together. It’s become this local legend that dates back as long as anyone can remember.
The cannon ritual happens right at sunset, but stick around afterward because Schooners transforms into one of the most authentic local hangouts on the beach. They’ve got live music regularly, and the crowd is this perfect mix of locals and tourists who actually want to experience real Panama City Beach culture. The food is solid too – way better than your typical touristy beach bar.
The cannon fires at the exact moment of sunset, which you can check online for precise timing. Schooners is open year-round with varying hours seasonally. I’d recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before sunset to grab a good spot and order drinks. The atmosphere after the cannon ritual is completely different from the daytime crowd, so it’s worth experiencing both if you have time.
21. Go night fishing at Russell-Fields Pier
Russell-Fields Pier extends 1,500 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, providing excellent night fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. The pier operates 24 hours during summer months with admission around $8 for adults and $5 for children, plus rod rental and bait available on-site.
Night fishing targets different species than daytime – red snapper, king mackerel, and cobia become more active after dark. I’ve had my best luck starting around sunset and fishing through midnight when baitfish schools move closer to shore. The pier’s lighting attracts these baitfish, which in turn draws larger predator fish within easy casting range.
Charter boats also depart from nearby marinas for night fishing expeditions lasting 4-6 hours and costing $75-120 per person. These trips venture into deeper waters for larger fish like grouper and amberjack. The pier provides a more affordable option where success depends more on timing and technique than expensive boat charters. All necessary equipment can be rented on-site, making this accessible to visitors without their own gear.
22. Watch outdoor movies at Aaron Bessant Park
Aaron Bessant Park hosts beachfront movie nights featuring giant screens set up directly on the sand with Gulf of Mexico waves providing natural soundtrack. These free events typically occur monthly during spring and summer, with specific dates posted on the city’s event calendar.
The outdoor cinema experience feels magical – stars overhead, ocean breeze, and classic films or family favorites projected against the night sky. I always bring beach chairs and blankets since sand seating can get uncomfortable during 2-hour movies. Food trucks often set up nearby, though you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Movies start around sunset (typically 7:30-8:30 PM depending on season) and run until approximately 10-11 PM. The park provides free parking and restroom facilities. Popular films draw large crowds, so arriving 30-45 minutes early secures better viewing spots closer to the screen. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes this perfect for all ages, and the beachfront location offers something you simply can’t experience at traditional movie theaters.
