People go to Panama City Beach for the beaches, the fishing, and the vibrant nightlife. They go to have fun and enjoy a time well spent with their loved ones. And of course, you’re going to make some pretty fantastic memories during a trip to Panama City Beach no matter the reason that attracted you there in the first place, but what about bringing home some physical memories of your time spent here?
Some see souvenir shops as tourist gimmicks, but we see them as beloved local entities that are packed with potential memories. Here, you can browse through items that were inspired by local places, people, and history, from traditional trinkets to unique artisanal crafts. Souvenir shops are often the best places to go to bring home a small token of your adventure or to find a meaningful gift for a loved one (maybe someone you hope will travel with you next time).
Whatever type of gift or personal memory you’re looking for, we hope the following list of the best shops for souvenirs in Panama City Beach helps you find exactly what you’re looking for:
Alvin’s Island
Alvin’s Island has become one of the largest beach store chains in the Southeastern United States, yet it all started with one Panama City Beach location that still operates today. Located on Front Beach Road, that store first opened in 1957, and it continues to be a go-to location for those on the hunt for souvenirs as well as beachwear and beach gear. You’ll also find several other Alvin Island shops running along Panama City Beach’s coastal roads, but you can still visit that first iconic location near the Runaway Island Boardwalk.
The Front Beach Alvin’s Island and its sister stores are all very hard to miss as they all feature a bright exterior color, including mango orange, yellow, green, and bright blue. Walk inside, and you’ll find yourself in a large warehouse-style interior with rows upon rows of retail goods that range from upscale bathing suits and branded sunglasses to more tourist-branded items like PCB-themed coffee mugs, magnets, and shot glasses. With such a diverse array of goods, we really recommend this souvenir shop as the go-to place when you’re shopping with or for a big group.
Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop
Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop is an independent, standalone surf shop that’s been around since the 1980s and continues to be a neighborhood staple for surf and beach enthusiasts. You’ll often find locals as well as visitors going through this Panama City Beach shop’s doors on the hunt for everyday necessities like surf wax and sunglasses, as well as more tourist-oriented items like branded hats. Of course, part of its draw is probably thanks to its convenient location just across the street from Rick Seltzer Park, one of the town’s most popular beachfront parks with amenities.
You’ll find plenty of objects to browse and potentially buy within Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop, but there’s also more to this locally beloved location. This shop also doubles as a bike, surfboard, and stand-up paddleboard rental company and offers lessons in surfing and stand-up paddle boarding as well as guided eco and dolphin tours via stand-up paddle boards. If you’re staying in the area, make sure to ask about their weekly and monthly membership plans that can bring down rental prices and get you some great discounts on those souvenirs you’ve been eyeing.
Sunsations
Sunsations is another iconic Panama City Beach Location that has grown from one souvenir shop to many. Every one of their locations is well-known for their wide-ranging selection of beach-themed treasures and mementos. The big flagship store is located on Front Beach Road at the intersection of Lyndell Lane, just one block from the beach.
Similar to Alvin’s Island, Sunsations has an exterior featuring bright colors and an interior that is just as vibrant and inviting. Step inside this souvenir shop and you will find shelves brimming with an array of branded apparel, beachwear, and keepsakes that will suit any taste. They also have a big selection of beach gear like colorful beach toys for the kids and wide-brimmed sun hats for those who want a bit of shade as they tour this coastal community. So, whether you are on the hunt for a classic beachfront tee or for a unique coastal trinket to bring home as a souvenir, Sunsations is a great choice as your big stop for beachy items.
Moby Dick’s
Looking for one big place to stock up on all your personal souvenirs and gifts for cheap? Then you cannot go wrong with Moby Dick’s. Located on Thomas Drive near the Emerald Falls Family Recreation Center, Moby Dick’s is a fantastic souvenir shop that is hard to miss with its massive whale statue that slopes over its doors. It’s a fun entryway that has guests to the shop entering into the mouth of a whale as they open up the doors and walk within.
Of course, while that whale head may draw you in, the real standout acclaim of Moby Dick’s likes within. This shop advertises itself as offering everything inside for $9.99, and it does deliver on that promise. You’ll find a massive selection of souvenir items, including intricately designed seashell jewelry, beautifully crafted shop replicas, and other fantastic keepsakes that you’ll only find in a coastal community. Friendly and knowledgeable staff members are likewise on hand to help you through their big selection so as to find that perfect souvenir for your needs.
Learn More About Making Memories in Panama City Beach
We hope the above list helps you find that perfect vacation token to bring home for yourself or a loved one. But remember, a good vacation is also about making meaningful memories, and finding the best places to make those meaningful memories is exactly what we love to do! Be sure to browse our other pages about the best of Panama City Beach to learn more about this dynamic beach town.
