Panama City Beach is a fantastic place for canoeing and kayaking because of its calm, clear waters and scenic coastal lakes. Unlike more turbulent ocean waters, the sheltered bays and coastal dune lakes provide ideal conditions for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Whether you’re looking to learn a new sport, explore wildlife, or unwind with a sunset paddle, Panama City Beach has a lot to offer. We especially like the Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson in Panama City Florida for its friendly instruction and wildlife sightings. Plus, the Sunset, Stand Up Paddle and Sip offers a relaxing way to end your day with stunning views.
Here’s a quick overview of our top five picks. We cover various skill levels and interests, from active lessons to tranquil sunset paddles. Each offers a unique way to experience Panama City Beach’s waters, with options for guided tours, fitness-focused sessions, and nighttime adventures. Now, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson in Panama City Florida
This introductory lesson is perfect if you’re new to paddleboarding or want to sharpen your skills. For around $85, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes with a personal instructor who teaches you how to control your board and paddle smoothly. All equipment, including safety gear, is provided, so you don’t need to bring a thing. The guide will cover various control techniques, turning styles, and safety tips, helping you gain confidence quickly.
What makes this tour stand out is the positive coaching style and the opportunity to spot local wildlife in the water. Reviewers highlight the patience and friendliness of the instructor, Katie, who makes learning fun even for beginners. One guest noted, “Katie was kind, patient, and made us feel like pros by the end of the lesson.” It’s ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a hands-on introduction to paddleboarding.
Bottom Line: This lesson offers good value for a personalized experience, especially if you want to learn the basics in a friendly setting. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free introduction to paddle sports.
2. Panama City Beach: Nighttime Kayak Tour with Snacks
Experience the quiet beauty of St. Andrews Bay after dark with this guided kayak tour. For $64, you’ll paddle in a transparent kayak equipped with built-in lighting, allowing you to see beneath the water and spot nocturnal wildlife. This tour is limited in reviews but has earned a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing its uniqueness and ambiance.
The highlight is the glow of the water beneath your kayak as you explore the bay’s quiet corners. Your guide will lead you past calm, protected waters, sharing insights about the local ecosystem. Snacks are included, making it a relaxing, social outing. The tour is safe and suitable for most fitness levels, with provided life jackets and paddles.
If you’re craving a peaceful, intimate experience in the evening, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for couples or groups looking for something romantic or different from the daytime hustle.
Bottom Line: The Nighttime Kayak Tour offers a memorable, serene paddle in a unique setting. It’s worth booking in advance, especially for a special evening experience.
3. Paddle Board Pilates
For those wanting to combine exercise with serenity, Paddle Board Pilates at Lake Powell is a standout. At $98, you get a 1.5-hour session that blends movement, mindfulness, and nature. This tour is limited to small groups, ensuring personalized attention, and is led by an instructor with a passion for both fitness and the outdoors.
The experience involves gliding over calm, glassy waters while performing Pilates-inspired exercises on the paddleboard. The instructor will guide you in anchoring your board in a secluded cove, where you’ll practice core-strengthening moves amid native wildlife. One reviewer praised Sandy, the instructor, for making the session supportive and accessible, even for beginners.
This tour is ideal if you want a workout that also allows you to connect with nature and find mental clarity. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy fitness and the outdoors, but want something more tranquil than a gym.
Bottom Line: Paddle Board Pilates provides a unique chance to boost your strength and calm your mind in a picturesque setting. Book early as spots fill quickly.
$98.00 per person
4. Guided Stand up Paddle Activity
At number four, this Eco Paddle Tour takes you on a journey through Lake Powell, one of Florida’s rare coastal dune lakes. For $98, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring this unspoiled environment, led by a passionate guide with extensive local knowledge.
This tour stands out because it explores a thriving estuary where freshwater and saltwater meet, supporting a diverse range of bird, fish, and plant life. You’ll paddle through calm, protected waters, learning about the ecosystem from your guide along the way. The small group size allows for personalized attention and a deeper understanding of this unique environment.
The tour is perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers who want to experience one of Florida’s most special natural features. Some reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the satisfaction of discovering rare wildlife.
Bottom Line: This ecological paddle offers a peaceful, educational experience. It’s best suited for travelers interested in the environment and wildlife, willing to spend time exploring a less-visited part of Florida.
$98.00 per person
5. Sunset, Stand Up Paddle and Sip
This Sunset Paddle and Sip provides a relaxing way to end a day in Panama City Beach. For $98, you’ll paddle for about 1.5 hours on Lake Powell at golden hour, with a guide keeping the experience easy and enjoyable.
The highlight is drifting past lush shoreline as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. The tour includes stopping in a quiet cove for a relaxing moment, sipping your favorite beverage (BYOB allowed) while soaking in the sunset. It’s suitable for beginners, with a focus on calm, safe paddling and enjoying the scenery. Guests have described it as “peaceful and beautiful,” making it perfect for couples or anyone wanting a tranquil experience.
This tour is less about physical challenge and more about enjoying nature’s beauty at a slow pace. It’s an excellent option for celebrating a special occasion or winding down after a busy day.
Bottom Line: Sunset Paddle and Sip is a laid-back, scenic experience ideal for relaxation and reflection. It’s advisable to book early, as sunset views are spectacular.
$98.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Panama City Beach
When selecting the best tour for your needs, consider your skill level, interests, and how active you want to be. If you’re new to paddle sports, the Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson offers personalized instruction at a reasonable price. For a peaceful, romantic evening, the Sunset Paddle and Sip provides a gentle, scenic experience.
If wildlife or ecological exploration appeals to you, the Eco Paddle Tour in Lake Powell is perfect. For fitness-minded travelers, the Paddle Board Pilates combines exercise and nature beautifully. Meanwhile, the Nighttime Kayak Tour offers a magical glow-in-the-dark experience for those seeking something different.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset and evening tours. Think about your fitness level, the kind of scenery you want to see, and whether you prefer guided instruction or independent exploration.
In summary, Panama City Beach offers a variety of kayak and paddleboard experiences tailored to different interests and skill levels. Whether you want to learn the basics, enjoy a peaceful sunset paddle, or explore rare ecosystems, there’s something here for you to discover. Two standout choices are the Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson for beginners and the Sunset Paddle and Sip for relaxing evenings. Don’t wait too long—these tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Happy paddling!