Florida is known for its abundance of gorgeous beaches. One favorite in the Florida Panhandle? Jetty Beach. In fact, many people claim that Jetty Beach bests every other beach along the entire Florida panhandle and Alabama coast.
Located at St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach, St Andrews State Park offers a remarkably long stretch of pristine beach. Clean, clear water, soft sand, and stunning scenery are just a few of the allures that make Jetty Beach a must-do on your Panama City Beach family vacation.
Beloved by everyone from families with young children to surfing devotees, Jetty Beach truly offers something for everyone. A sheltered cove located behind the jetty offers a calm, shallow spot for wee ones to safely wade. This small lagoon — which has been nicknamed the “Kiddie Pool” by locals — is also a popular snorkeling spot. Choppier surf — and the surfers to go with it– can be found on the other side of the dunes.
But even if you don’t so much as dip a toe in the water, you’ll still enjoy taking in the tranquil ocean views or strolling along one of St. Andrews State Park’s well-maintained walking paths. You might even spot a heron or dolphin or two!
Another appealing aspect of Jetty Beach? It has many family-friendly amenities, including clean and well-maintained bathhouse facilities and picnic pavilions. Additionally, there’s a convenient gift shop offering everything from food and drink concessions to beach equipment rentals.
While St. Andrews State Park is worth a trip for Jetty Beach alone, there are many other activities to explore on this stunning stretch of coastline. In addition to soaking in the sun, you can also swim, snorkel, and fish off of one of its two fishing piers where you might catch anything from flounder and bluefish to Spanish mackerel and sea trout. Camping and hiking trails round out the list of things to see and do in this delightful destination.
Insider Tips:
– Go early to get ahead of the crowds! Jetty Beach opens daily at 8 AM.
– If you forget your lounge chairs or beach umbrella or simply don’t feel like lugging them around, the gift shop offers a large selection of rentals.
– Plan to leave Fido at home when you go to Jetty Beach. Pets are not permitted.
– The waters of Jetty Beach are home to many diverse sea creatures, including small comb jellyfish. Don’t panic if you see them: they don’t sting. (You might occasionally glimpse a larger jellyfish; these DO sting so be careful.)