Panama City Beach isn’t just about sunbathing on powdery white sand; it’s a playground for all kinds of city tours that show off the best of coastal Florida. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing sunset cruise, an exhilarating jet boat ride, or a close encounter with dolphins, this list has got you covered. We particularly like the sunset catamaran sails for their relaxed vibe and stunning views, like the Panama City Beach Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer, which gets rave reviews for dolphins and spectacular sunsets. For thrill-seekers, the high-octane Scream Machine l – Xtreme Thrill Ride is perfect for a splash of adrenaline.
If you’re here for a more laid-back experience, dolphin tours and sailing trips let you soak in the scenery and wildlife around Shell Island and St. Andrews Bay. No matter your style, Panama City Beach offers a variety of tours that deliver memorable moments on the water and beyond.
1. Panama City Beach Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer
At number 1, the Panama City Beach Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer offers an elegant way to unwind before dinner. This 2-hour cruise on the spacious 78-passenger catamaran features tropical music, complimentary beverages, and the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles. The crew, led by Captain Mike, is consistently praised for their friendly service and engaging storytelling. The highlight, of course, is the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, which guests describe as “spectacular.” The onboard bar offers snacks and full liquor, making this a great choice for couples and romantics. With a 5.0/5 rating from over 680 reviews, this cruise is a top pick for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a romantic, easygoing evening with beautiful views and friendly staff.
2. Panama City Beach Sunset Sail on The Footloose Catamaran
Next, the Panama City Beach Sunset Sail on The Footloose Catamaran offers a slightly shorter, yet equally charming sunset experience. This 1 hour 30-minute cruise on a smaller 38-passenger vessel provides a more intimate atmosphere. Guests rave about the live tropical music and the complimentary wine or Sangria. Many mention dolphins seen during the trip as a bonus—this cruise consistently earns 5 stars. The friendly crew makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed evening on the water. Its affordability and charming vibe make it a winner.
Bottom Line: A cozy, romantic cruise for those who want a personal touch and great sunset views.
3. Scream Machine l – Xtreme Thrill Ride at Panama City Beach
For adrenaline junkies, the Scream Machine l – Xtreme Thrill Ride delivers pure excitement. This 1-hour jet boat ride features high speeds, 360-degree spins, and nose dives that scream “fun.” It’s perfect if you want a thrilling experience that’s more rollercoaster than scenic cruise. Riders rave about how much fun they had, with some mentioning they loved getting splashed and the energetic crew. Best suited for older children and adults seeking a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s a great way to add some excitement to your beach trip.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers ready to get soaked and scream with joy, this ride is hard to beat.
4. 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Dolphin Tour in Panama City Beach
This Private Dolphin Tour is a personal, flexible experience led by a local captain in a comfortable boat. For around $329, up to six people can enjoy this 2-hour excursion exploring St. Andrews Bay and Gulf of Mexico. The tour is known for its dolphin sightings, with guests often seeing pods swimming nearby. The guide shares insider stories about the coastline and marine life, making it educational and fun. Many reviews highlight how the tour is ideal for families and small groups wanting an intimate, wildlife-rich adventure. The addition of Shell Island makes for fantastic photo opportunities and beach walks.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a private, customized experience with plenty of dolphin sightings.
5. Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach
Offering a 1 hour 30-minute cruise, the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose is a favorite for wildlife lovers. Many reviewers comment on the abundance of dolphin sightings—sometimes over 50 dolphins! The onboard bar serves cocktails and snacks, making it a relaxed way to enjoy Panama City’s waters. The crew is praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, making this a good choice for families and casual visitors alike.
Bottom Line: For a fun, dolphin-packed cruise with a lively atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.
6. Panama City Beach Dolphin Sightseeing Sail
The Dolphin Sightseeing Sail is a quick, 1.5-hour tour focused on dolphin spotting in St. Andrews Bay. Lauded for its friendly crew and smooth ride, it’s a good pick for those short on time but eager to see wildlife. Many reviews mention dolphin sightings along with the scenic beauty of the coastline. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: An excellent, short dolphin cruise for a quick wildlife fix.
7. Shell Island Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour in Panama City Beach
This Shell Island Dolphin Tour is designed for those who love wildlife and natural scenery. The 1 hour 30-minute journey takes you to Shell Island, where you can stroll pristine beaches after dolphin sightings. The boat is spacious, with up to 18 passengers, making it feel exclusive and intimate. Reviewers love the dolphin encounters and the knowledgeable crew’s explanations about local wildlife.
Bottom Line: Great for families or small groups wanting a peaceful, wildlife-rich experience with a beach break.
8. 2 Hours Swim with the Dolphins in Panama City
For truly unforgettable moments, the Swim with Dolphins tour offers the chance to interact directly with wild dolphins. Over 2 hours, you can choose to observe from the boat or jump in for a swimming experience with the pod. The tour is led by an experienced local skipper, with many praising the personalized approach and the opportunity to see other marine life like stingrays and manatees. The reviews highlight how close and natural the dolphin encounters are.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an interactive, up-close experience with Panama’s dolphins.
9. Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez Only in Panama City Beach
The Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez offers a 1.5-hour relaxing ride aboard a modern pontoon. This trip takes you through Grand Lagoon and St. Andrews Bay, with a focus on scenic views and wildlife. The friendly crew and comfortable boat make it ideal for families or small groups. Many reviews mention dolphins seen during the cruise and the beautiful sunset photos you can capture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a peaceful, scenic evening with wildlife sightings and family-friendly comfort.
10. Panama City Scuba Diving Activity for Beginners
If you’re curious about exploring beneath the surface, this Scuba Diving for Beginners is a gentle introduction. Led by a PADI instructor, it includes snorkeling gear and photos—no prior experience needed. The reviews highlight how smooth and supportive the instruction is, even for first-timers. You’ll practice fundamental skills and explore local marine life like sea turtles and colorful fish. It’s perfect for adventurous families or travelers eager to try something new.
Bottom Line: Great for first-timers and those wanting a safe, guided intro to scuba diving.
11. Panama City: Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay
This Sunset Dolphin Cruise emphasizes serene views and wildlife in a 1.5-hour trip. It’s praised for its relaxed atmosphere and chances to see dolphins in the gorgeous setting of St. Andrews Bay. Guests love the friendly captain and the beautiful photo opportunities of the sunset and wildlife. It’s a more laid-back alternative to high-speed rides, suited for all ages.
Bottom Line: Ideal for tranquil sunsets and dolphin sightings in a peaceful setting.
12. Snorkel Excursions with Good Jibez Only in Panama City Beach
If snorkeling with wildlife is your thing, this Snorkel Excursion takes you to Shell Island’s clear waters. With a maximum of 18 passengers, it’s an intimate tour where you can see dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant fish. The crew is praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making it a delightful outing for families, children, and adventure lovers alike.
Bottom Line: A fantastic, small-group snorkeling trip to see marine life up close.
13. Panama City Beach: Dolphin Sightseeing Trip by Catamaran
This Dolphin Sightseeing Trip offers a 1.5-hour journey into the Gulf, focusing on spotting bottlenose dolphins. The comfortable catamaran provides a relaxed way to observe marine life while enjoying the scenery around Shell Island. Reviewers mention the expert crew and the beautiful waters, making it a solid choice for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, dolphin-focused cruise that’s suitable for all ages.
14. Panama City Beach: Xtreme Jet Boat Thrill Ride
For those craving speed and action, the Xtreme Jet Boat Thrill Ride promises a half-hour to one-hour adrenaline rush. The twin-engine jet boat performs fishtails, power slides, and 360° spins, making it a perfect thrill-seeker’s choice. Many reviewers mention how much fun they had despite the short ride—getting wet is part of the experience. This is best suited for older kids and adults who want a high-speed adventure.
Bottom Line: Fast-paced fun for thrill-hungry travelers ready to get wet.
15. Panama City Beach: Jet Ski Eco Tour to Shell Island
This Jet Ski Eco Tour combines the excitement of jet skiing with exploring Shell Island’s natural beauty. Covering about 22 miles, it’s led by an experienced guide who points out dolphins and other wildlife along the way. The tour is perfect for those who want to operate their own jet ski and enjoy some personalized adventure in the water. Many reviews highlight the fantastic scenery and wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: A fun, active way to explore the coast and see wildlife from the seat of your own jet ski.
16. Panama City Beach’s – Dolphin Sunset Cruise
Finally, the Dolphin Sunset Cruise offers a 1-hour trip to watch the sunset over Choctawhatchee Bay. This tour is praised for its friendly crew and the chance to spot dolphins while capturing stunning sunset photos. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly outing that’s perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic cruise with wildlife sightings and picture-perfect sunsets.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Panama City Beach
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you want. For relaxing scenery and sunset views, the Sunset Catamaran or Good Jibez Sunset are excellent options. Families and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the dolphin tours and Shell Island excursions. If adventure is your priority, the thrill rides and jet ski tours deliver high-speed fun.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular trips like the sunset sails and dolphin interactions. Think about the time of day—sunset tours tend to be more scenic, while midday trips might give you more wildlife sightings.
In summary, Panama City Beach offers a wide array of city tours suited for every type of traveler—from serene sunset cruises and wildlife-watching trips to exhilarating jet boat rides. Whether you want a romantic evening, an active adventure, or a family-friendly outing, there’s a tour that will make your trip memorable. For the best experience, consider your interests, read reviews, and book in advance to secure your spot on these popular adventures.