Where to Shop in Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach (PCB) isn’t just a paradise for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts—it’s also a dream destination for those who love to shop. From the bustling energy of outdoor shopping centers to charming local boutiques brimming with unique treasures, PCB offers an incredible variety of shopping experiences. Whether you’re on the hunt for trendy apparel, handcrafted souvenirs, luxury items, or coastal-themed home décor, you’ll find it all here. Add to that the vibrant local markets and specialty stores catering to foodies and outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s clear that PCB is a true shopper’s paradise. Dive into this comprehensive guide to shopping in Panama City Beach, where we’ll uncover everything from hidden gems to high-end malls, ensuring you make the most of your retail adventures.
1. Pier Park: The Shopping Epicenter
Address: 600 Pier Park Dr, Panama City Beach, FL
Pier Park is the crown jewel of shopping in PCB. This outdoor lifestyle center offers over 120 stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. Its vibrant atmosphere, paired with a picturesque setting near the Gulf of Mexico, makes it a must-visit.
Must-Visit Stores at Pier Park
- Dillard’s: A department store featuring designer brands for clothing, beauty, and home goods.
- Ron Jon Surf Shop: Iconic for beachwear, surfboards, and coastal-inspired gifts.
- Forever 21: Trendy and affordable fashion for young shoppers.
- Bath & Body Works: Indulge in fragrant lotions, candles, and bath essentials.
- The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House: Not a store, but their gift shop offers unique coastal-themed souvenirs and apparel.
Pro Tip
Plan your visit around sunset. The vibrant hues of the sky, paired with the neon lights of Pier Park, create a magical shopping atmosphere.
2. Beachy Boutiques: Unique Finds for Fashionistas
PCB is home to several locally owned boutiques offering one-of-a-kind items. These shops cater to those seeking unique apparel, jewelry, and accessories that reflect the laid-back coastal vibe.
Top Boutiques to Explore
- Lily Pads Interiors & Gifts
- Offers coastal-themed home décor, furniture, and chic accessories.
- Everything Beachy
- A treasure trove of beachwear, handmade jewelry, and quirky gifts.
- Deja Vu
- Features boho-chic apparel, perfect for transitioning from beach to boardwalk.
3. Souvenir Shops: Take a Piece of PCB Home
No trip to PCB is complete without picking up a souvenir. You’ll find everything from seashell trinkets to locally made crafts.
Top Souvenir Spots
- Alvin’s Island: A PCB staple offering everything from T-shirts to seashell keepsakes.
- Sharky’s Beach Shop: Known for its quirky shark-themed items and tropical flair.
- The Salt Shed: Offers handmade sea salt scrubs, candles, and other coastal-inspired items.
4. Local Markets: Embrace PCB’s Artisan Spirit
Local markets in PCB are perfect for finding handmade goods, fresh produce, and unique gifts. They’re also an excellent way to meet the artisans and learn about the local culture.
Best Local Markets
- Grand Lagoon Waterfront Market
- A blend of crafts, fresh seafood, and local art, held every Saturday.
- Panama City Farmer’s Market
- Located downtown, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music.
- Beach Art Group’s Summer Markets
- Seasonal markets featuring local artists’ paintings, pottery, and jewelry.
5. High-End Shopping: Luxury Finds in PCB
While PCB is known for its casual, beachy vibe, there are options for those seeking upscale shopping.
Luxury Shopping Spots
- Shoppes at Edgewater
- Features high-end apparel stores, designer sunglasses, and boutique wine shops.
- Gulf Coast Town Center
- Located just a short drive away, offering premium brands like Michael Kors and Pandora.
6. Antique & Vintage Treasures
If you’re a fan of antiquing, PCB won’t disappoint. These shops are filled with hidden gems and pieces that tell a story.
Must-Visit Antique Stores
- Little Mustard Seed
- A charming boutique with vintage furniture, décor, and handmade items.
- Antique Cottage & Garden
- Offers eclectic antiques and rare collectibles.
- Southern Charm Trading Co.
- A mix of antiques, repurposed furniture, and rustic home décor.
7. Outdoor Gear & Water Sports Stores
PCB is a hub for outdoor adventures, so it’s no surprise that the city boasts several stores dedicated to water sports and outdoor gear.
Top Outdoor Gear Stores
- Half Hitch Tackle: Your one-stop shop for fishing gear, bait, and tackle.
- Sunjammers: Specializing in paddleboards, kayaks, and beach accessories.
- Emerald Coast Scuba: Perfect for scuba diving enthusiasts seeking gear and expert advice.
8. Outlet Malls: Big Savings Close By
For those willing to venture slightly outside PCB, the Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Destin is worth the drive. Located about an hour away, this outlet mall features over 100 designer and name-brand stores, including Coach, Nike, and Kate Spade, with impressive discounts.
9. Specialty Shops for Foodies
Shopping isn’t just about fashion or souvenirs—PCB has fantastic specialty shops for food lovers, too.
Top Foodie Finds
- The Spice & Tea Exchange
- Exotic spices, unique teas, and custom spice blends.
- Kilwins
- Famous for handmade chocolates, fudge, and ice cream.
- Buddy’s Seafood Market
- Pick up fresh seafood to cook at your vacation rental.
10. Practical Shopping: Essentials and More
If you need essentials during your stay, PCB has several big-box retailers and supermarkets.
Convenience Stores
- Walmart Supercenter: Great for stocking up on groceries and beach supplies.
- Publix: Known for its fresh produce, deli, and bakery.
- Target: A go-to for clothing, beauty products, and snacks.
Stay with Shorelyx Properties for a Perfect Shopping Getaway
To make your shopping experience in Panama City Beach even better, book your stay at Shorelyx Properties, known for their cozy and well-located vacation rentals. Whether it’s the San Vincente Cabana Oasis, just a short distance from Pier Park, or the Marlin Cozy Beach nestled in the gated Venture Out neighborhood, you’ll have easy access to all the best shopping spots.
As an Airbnb Superhost for four consecutive quarters, Abby ensures that your stay is nothing short of exceptional. Plus, you can save up to 10% by booking directly with Shorelyx Properties.
Insider Tips for Shopping in PCB
- Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends: If you’re visiting during Florida’s tax-free holidays, you can save significantly on clothing and school supplies.
- Shop Local First: Supporting local businesses is a great way to give back to the community and find unique treasures.
- Check for Discounts: Many stores offer discounts for military personnel, students, or even social media followers. Don’t hesitate to ask.
Panama City Beach offers something for every type of shopper. Whether you’re searching for fashion finds, souvenirs, or luxury goods, PCB is the place to be. And after a day of retail therapy, unwind in the comfort of a Shorelyx Properties vacation rental.
Plan your PCB shopping adventure today, and don’t forget to share your favorite finds with us. Happy shopping! 🌴