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How to Support Local in PCB (Shops, Eats, Experiences)

By rey | Updated: 09/08/2025 | Reading Time: 6 min

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Your vacation money or monthly fun money (for my locals), can truly impact lives

Well, suga', let me tell ya something: You land in Panama City Beach and the first thing every travel blog tells ya is “Go to Pier Park!” And bless your heart, there’s nothin’ wrong with it… but honey, you’re missin’ out on the real Panama City Beach if that's all you do. The one where families have run seafood shacks for decades, where you can buy art straight from the hands that painted it, and where your dollars actually stay in the community instead of floatin’ off to some corporate HQ in another state.

Most visitors spend a whopping 87% of their vacation budget at chains and franchises, which means only pennies of each dollar actually help locals. And ain't that kinda' a shame? Well, this here guide is gonna show you the shops, restaurants, and experiences locals adore including helpful lil' info like the prices, hours, and the best times to visit.

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Panama City Beach Local Shops

Now listen here: Pier Park’s fine for what it is, but drive about ten minutes inland and that’s where some real magic happens. We’re talkin’ surf boutiques run by folks who actually paddle these waters, antique stores full of coastal treasures, and art galleries where you can shake hands with the person who painted that sunset you’re admiring.

Beatniks Inc. is your perfect surf-meets-gift-shop. Quirky beach décor, quality surf gear, and gifts that don’t scream “tourist.” Prices $10–$50. Open Mon–Sat 10 AM–6 PM, Sun 12–5 PM.

If treasure hunting is your game, Bob House Antiques & Furniture is a must. Coastal furniture, vintage finds, and pieces with stories. Expect $20–$150 depending on what tickles your fancy. Mon–Sat 10 AM–5 PM, Sun 12–4 PM.

Sun Bear Gallery & Studio features local artistry: paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry. Prices start around $15 and climb past $100 for larger pieces. And sometimes, you might just meet the artist themselves. Open Tue–Sat 11 AM–5 PM.

JD Maclang is your spot for boutique fashion and coastal gifts without that ridiculous resort markup. $15–$120 range, Mon–Sat 10 AM–6 PM.

Most of these gems are just a few blocks apart, so park once and stroll. Way easier than wrestlin’ with Pier Park parking during peak hours, for sure!

Unique Shopping Experiences in PCB Florida

Sweetheart, the best shopping ain’t always in a store. Sometimes, it’s at markets where farmers and artisans actually talk to ya' about what they’re growin' or makin'.

• Market Square at SweetBay — Sundays 10 AM–2 PM. Fresh produce $2–$5, artisan goods $10–$40. Small but mighty; more personal than overwhelming.

• 30A Farmers Market in Santa Rosa Beach — Thursdays 9 AM–1 PM. Gorgeous drive through Rosemary Beach and Seaside, more vendors, same $2–$40 price range.

• Market on the Meadows — once a month, Magnolia Beach Rd & Delwood Beach Rd. Artisan and seasonal goods $5–$40. Best to check the schedule.

Markets are perfect for kiddos: lots of room to wander, usually lots of food options, and it’s way more fun than draggin’ them through another chain store.

PCB Restaurants

There’s a reason locals seem to avoid certain “famous” beachfront spots. It ain’t that the food’s bad ; it’s just that you’re payin’ tourist prices for food that’s… fine. Meanwhile, a few blocks over, family-run spots serve incredible seafood at half the cost.

• Dee’s Hang Out — Po-boys $8.99–$14.99, seafood platters $26–$29. Mon–Fri 11 AM–9 PM, Sat 11 AM–8:30 PM, Sun 11 AM–8 PM. No fuss, just fantastic. 

• The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House — Open daily 11 AM, main dishes $15–$50. Beachfront without the pretense. 

• Schooners — Daily from 11 AM, seafood and casual fare $15–$35. Great for sunset views. 

• Finn’s Island Style Grub — Tue–Sun 10 AM–7 PM, breakfast/lunch $7–$11. Laid-back island energy. 

• Bayou Joe’s Marina & Grill — Wed–Thu 11 AM–8 PM, Fri–Sun 9 AM–8 PM, closed Mon–Tue. Mid-range $10–$30. Waterfront dining, boats drifting by while you eat. 

All kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. But you gon' call ahead for any specific needs, 'kay

Best Locally Owned Restaurants in Panama City Beach

If you’re craving beef over seafood, Triple J’s Steakhouse is family-run and knows their grill. Combine that with Finn’s and Bayou Joe’s, and you’re tasting personality in every bite. These places cook for folks who’ll come back next week, next month, next year. That’s the local magic.

Panama City Beach Experiences

Eating local is fine, but sweetheart, experiences — that’s where memories really  happen! Here's a few I'd highly recommend:

• Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park — Daily 9 AM–4:30 PM, adults $34.95, kids $24.95, seniors $33.95. Educational, fun, and supporting marine rehab work. 

• Dolphin & wildlife / Shell Island tours — Local operators $25–$50. They know the dolphins, tides, and best spots.

• Guided kayak / eco-tours in St. Andrews — $25–$50, daily. Paddle calm waters, spot wildlife, learn from folks who care.

• Local music nights & art walks — $10–$20 cover or free, hearing musicians who live and breathe here.

And how can we talk about experiences without mentioning the gorgeous beach!

Whether Access Point 84 or Richard Seltzer Park Beach Access, it's so important to keep in mind beach safety. Here's what the flags mean and what to keep in mind: Green = calm waves, Yellow = moderate waves, Red = high hazard water conditions, Double red = water closed and you may be fined if you still go in, Purple = marine pests (such as jellyfish), swim at your own risk.

Family-Friendly Local Attractions in PCB

When it rains, there's no need to fret or feel frustrated. Whether rainy days or you just need a break from the sand, here' two of my top tips:

• Man in the Sea Museum — Wed–Sat 10 AM–4 PM, closed Sun–Tue. Adults $10, kids $6. Fascinating history of diving and underwater exploration. 

• Science and Discovery Center of NW Florida — Tue–Sat 10 AM–4 PM, $12 adults/kids. Hands-on exhibits that keep young minds busy.

And if two options doesn't qute feel like enough, head on over to our full rainy day guide: Best Rainy Day Activities in PCB.

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How to Support Local PCB

Supporting local goes beyond just showing up, as appreciated as that is though. Beyond dining and experiencing local establishments, here's a few more things you could do:

• After shopping & dining local, Tip well & Leave reviews: a simple five-star helps more than you know!

• Buy gift cards: it’s like givin’ the business an interest-free loan and gives you a reason to return or serves as an amazing referral if you gift them to someone else.

• Attend local events: fall seafood festivals, spring art walks, holiday markets, pop-up artisan fairs.

• Respect neighborhoods. Follow beach flags. Take your trash with you. Skip single-use plastics.

Where to Eat, Shop, and Explore Local in Panama City Beach

Sample 1 day itinerary:

• Morning: Market Square at SweetBay (Sun) or 30A Farmers Market (Thu) — fresh fruit & coffee.

• Lunch: Dee’s Hang Out for po-boys or Finn’s for island vibes.

• Afternoon: Guided kayak eco-tour or Gulfarium visit.

• Evening: Local live music beachside (try the East End of the beach).

Hits shopping, food, nature, and local culture all in one!

FAQs

Q: What are the best locally owned restaurants in Panama City Beach?
Dee’s Hang Out, Bayou Joe’s, Finn’s Island Style Grub, Back Porch, Schooners — all local favorites.

Q: Where can I find unique shops in PCB?
Downtown boutiques, antique stores, art galleries. Beatniks Inc., Bob House Antiques, Sun Bear Gallery, JD Maclang.

Q: Which farmers markets are near Panama City Beach?
If you’re chasing a truly local vibe, three lesser-known markets:

• Market Square at SweetBay — Sun 10 AM–2 PM

• 30A Farmers Market — Thu 9 AM–1 PM

• Market on the Meadows — once monthly, check schedule

Q: What to do in PCB if it rains?
Man in the Sea Museum or Science & Discovery Center are two good choices. Boutiques and galleries also work.

Q: How can I support small businesses in PCB on a budget?
Shop markets ($2–$40), casual eateries ($7–$15), attend free art walks, leave reviews.

Q: Are there wheelchair-accessible or kid-friendly spots?
Most restaurants, Gulfarium, and markets accommodate. Call ahead for specifics.

Q: Which seasonal events happen in PCB?
Fall seafood festivals, spring art walks, holiday markets, pop-up artisan fairs, and more. Our Local Spotlight keeps you updated!

Key Takeaways

So, when it's all said and done, here's the short version of what you gotta' keep in mind. One, you really oughta' venture beyond the lil' tourist strip. It's nice and do pay a visit! But know that some of the best shops, restaurants, and experiences are just a few mo' blocks away. Two, it'll be in your best interest to plan ahead and keep the season in mind. Many spots have limited schedules or even close early (or entirely) depending on the season. Don't get down here and be disappointed 'cuz you was flying blind na'! Three, and my personal fav': Be a good neighbor, please; you visitin' but act like you got some home training love - respect our neighborhoods, follow the beach safety flags, and pick up behind ya'self (no trash or whatnot left lying aroun').

Last but certainly not least, the best way to support local is knowing that your presence and engagement matter beyond just spending. Writing honest reviews and giving 5 stars where due, sharing your great experiences on social media and tagging the brand or business, and just being genuinely pleasant when interacting are worth their weight in gold and so appreciated!

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