Top 3 Weekend Getaways Near Panama City Beach, FL
One of my favorite parts about living here is that you don’t have to go far to feel like you’re on vacation…Whether it’s a quick drive down 30A or a spontaneous road trip a couple of hours away, we’re surrounded by the kind of small coastal towns that make slowing down easy.
When our family needs a change of scenery — without hopping on a plane — these are the three spots we keep going back to again and again.
1. Port St. Joe & Cape San Blas — 1 hr 15 min ish 🚗
If we had to choose one favorite, this would be it.
Port St. Joe and neighboring Cape San Blas are our go-to for a laid-back, slow-pace weekend. It’s the perfect blend of quiet beaches, local charm, and that “nothing on the schedule” feeling.
Why we love it:
Scalloping season in late summer is always a highlight
It’s easy to explore for a couple nights without over-planning
Family-friendly, peaceful, and close enough to feel spontaneous
Where to eat:
Joe Mama’s Wood Fired Pizza — always a hit with the whole family
Provisions Restaurant — casual coastal dining downtown
The White Marlin PSJ — right on the bay, great atmosphere
2. Apalachicola — 1 hr 45 min ish 🚗
If you’re craving quiet streets, local boutiques, and some of the best oysters around, Apalachicola is a classic “old Florida” weekend spot. It’s slower-paced and incredibly charming.
Why we love it:
Coastal history and beautiful architecture
Easy to walk everywhere downtown
Great for a romantic weekend or girls’ trip
Where to eat:
The Station Raw Bar — casual and local-approved
Owl Café — elevated seafood & southern dishes
Where to stay:
The Historic Gibson Inn — a local landmark with porch swings and southern charm
3. Pensacola — 2 hr ish 🚗
A little more city mixed with coastal charm, Pensacola is the perfect spot if you want more dining and shopping mixed into your weekend.
Why we love it:
Walkable downtown with great local restaurants
A fun mix of history, culture, and beaches
Perfect for couples or a short getaway with friends
Where to eat:
Jackson’s Steakhouse — perfect for date night
Dharma Blue — sushi with a coastal twist (a must for us!)
Where to stay:
Stay Oyster Bay — chic boutique stay with beautiful bay views
Bonus: A Staycation on 30A
If you live nearby, don’t overlook your own backyard. A staycation on 30A always tops my list. From beach mornings to dinner in Rosemary or Seaside, it’s the kind of getaway that never gets old. I’ll save the details for this in another blog post…. so stay tuned :)
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Whether you’re planning a quick family trip or starting to dream about owning your own beach getaway, these nearby destinations are a reminder of why life on the coast is so special.
I’d love to be a resource for your family, whether you’re planning a weekend here or looking for your very own place by the beach. 🫶🏼
Explore 30A & Panama City Beach Properties→ Here