Your Local Guide to Nightlife in Panama City Beach, FL

Consistently ranking among the best beach towns in the South, Panama City Beach is a Gulf Coast gem offering a delightful and calm coastal lifestyle and relaxing outdoor activities. But if you’re in the mood to shake things up and enjoy vibrant PCB evening entertainment, the city is full of surprises!

Nightlife venues and bars in Panama City Beach, Florida make for a lively mix of tiki spots, bustling pubs, and laid-back restaurants serving superb drinks and hosting fantastic live music performances — all infused with that beloved beach vibe and the warmth of friendly locals. Wondering where to find these hidden gems? In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best bars and restaurants in Panama City Beach for a fun-filled night out in this Florida favorite.

At Emerald Coast Retreat, our love for Panama City Beach is translated into our commitment to crafting unparalleled getaways for our guests. We offer a curated selection of properties, ranging from beachfront condos to spacious rental homes, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost convenience and comfort for your stay.

And if we may say so, we’re experts in all things Panama City Beach. In our destination blog, we’ve covered everything from hidden gems to where to find pickleball courts, with more posts always on the way to make your vacation even better. So stay tuned!

Let’s kick off an epic night! Ready to dive in?

Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar

Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar has been a beloved destination for more than 30 years. It is known for its fresh seafood, relaxed beach atmosphere, breathtaking ocean views, and lively entertainment. While it closes earlier than some spots, it’s still the perfect way to kick off a memorable night.

Following a spectacular sunset and a delightful dinner, Sharky’s outdoor deck and tiki bar turn into a vibrant scene, showcasing live music from outstanding national and local performers. With a diverse drink menu, it’s easy to settle in for the evening. Be sure to try the Shark Attack, Sharky’s signature tropical rum cocktail, which pairs perfectly with the vibrant music and laid-back beach vibes.

Ms. Newby’s

Ms. Newby’s is another iconic spot in Panama City Beach, known for being the perfect place to dance all night, meet friendly locals, and make lasting memories. 

Ms. Newby’s keeps the energy high with DJs spinning hits and live performances from local and national bands. Their karaoke nights are also a big draw, inviting guests to sing their hearts out and enjoy the upbeat pub scene.

The venue boasts multiple sections, including a quirky indoor bar, a welcoming outdoor space, and an upper deck. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, sing, or just relax, Ms. Newby’s has the perfect spot for connecting with people from all backgrounds.

Don’t miss out on their iconic Hunch Punch. Why’s it called that? You won’t understand until you take a sip!

Donovan’s Reef Bar

Donovan’s Reef Bar has been a hometown staple since 1979, celebrated for its extensive lineup of events and parties, as well as a fantastic drink selection.

Get ready for some classic bar fun here: karaoke nights for the aspiring singers, live music that’ll get you moving, dart boards, pool tables, oversized Jenga for some friendly (and clumsy) competition, and big screens for sports fans to catch the game. Whatever your idea of fun, you’ll find it here!

Pineapple Willy’s 

This on-the-sand gem is not only famous for its fresh seafood delicacies and stunning Gulf views, but also for being the go-to spot for night entertainment paired with delightful beach vibes.

Pineapple Willy’s laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere during the day transforms into a more lively scene at night, catering to a wide range of visitors. During the summer, they host incredible live music performances every night and frequently hold special events and parties. For a more relaxed experience, grab a table near one of their big TV screens during football season and join the locals in cheering for their teams.

Willy’s Pier Bar offers an extensive drink menu to top off a fun-filled night. Highlights include frozen daiquiris and other tasty creations like the Pineapple Willy, Redneck Lemonade, Historic Pier Punch, along with a wide selection of beers.

Off the Hook Bar and Grill

This locally owned outdoor restaurant on the Grand Lagoon offers relaxing meals featuring fresh seafood dishes during the day. But after sunset, it becomes an excellent spot in Panama City Beach to grab a drink, enjoy some tunes, and take in the night views of the lagoon.

Settle in at their wooden deck during live performances, order some small bites, and enjoy their refreshing drinks for a tranquil yet fun evening. Must-try cocktails include their signature Margaritas, Bloody Mary, OTH Stress Reliever, and OTH Punch. They also have an extensive selection of draft beers and wines.

Hammerhead Fred’s

As they say, “Come for the food, stay for the music!” Known for its fun, relaxed beach bar vibe with open-air areas where you can enjoy the ocean breeze, Hammerhead Fred’s is a top spot for both food and entertainment.

Their stage hosts some of the hottest bands around, playing a variety of genres that are sure to please any visitor. The best way to enjoy this music extravaganza? By sipping one of their 50 draft beers on tap. With its vibrant decor, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere, Hammerhead Fred’s stands out as one of the best places in Panama City Beach for a night out.

Whiskey’s Saloon

Located right on Front Beach Road, Whiskey’s Saloon is the beach’s oldest saloon, operating since 1946. This local treasure offers a lively nightlife experience with a Wild West vibe, featuring bar seating and whiskey barrel tables that create the perfect setting for a fun night out.

The saloon hosts live entertainment, showcasing local bands, DJs, and karaoke nights, making it a great spot for those looking to enjoy vibrant musical performances, which happen most nights of the week. Beyond the music, Whiskey’s Saloon adds to the fun with pool tables, darts, and a dance floor. As for the drinks? Trust us — whatever you choose will be happiness in a glass. Just take it easy, as their cocktails are known to pack a punch!

Salty Goat Saloon

The Salty Goat Saloon is a popular dive bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Established in 2012, it has quickly become a local favorite for both food and fun, with live music from local and traveling artists featured seven nights a week.

With its casual, biker-friendly atmosphere, the Salty Goat attracts a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, and regulars. This no-frills bar offers cold beers, a variety of cocktails, and plenty of opportunities to chat with locals. In addition to live music, there’s also fun to be had with their pool tables.

Try a Tropical Tequila, Panhandle Punch, or Moscow Mule as you soak in the friendly and lively vibes of the Salty Goat. One of the perks is that it stays open until 2 AM, making it a great late-night option for those seeking a lively bar scene — they even offer a late-night happy hour!

Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill

Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill is a fantastic option for Panama City Beach nightlife, offering a vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Its spacious beachside deck makes it the perfect spot to enjoy Gulf sunsets with a cocktail in hand.

With a two-story layout and ample seating, including a large outdoor patio, Runaway Island provides plenty of room to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze while listening to incredible live performances from local bands.

Their bar features signature cocktails, often highlighting tropical flavors. Popular choices include classic beach drinks like Mojitos, Piña Coladas, and Margaritas. For beer enthusiasts, they offer a variety of craft beers—both on tap and in bottles—from nearby breweries to enhance your evening.

Extra Tips: How to make the best of a night out in Panama City Beach?

• Start with a Sunset Cocktail: Panama City Beach is famous for its stunning sunsets. Kick off your night by grabbing a drink at a beachfront bar like Runaway Island or Pineapple Willy’s where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping a tropical cocktail.

• Explore Local Dining Hotspots: For a great meal, check out restaurants that offer fresh Gulf seafood and beachfront dining. Places like Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant or Hammerhead Fred’s combine excellent food with lively atmospheres and scenic views.

• Catch Live Music: Many spots in PCB host live music. Head to Ms. Newby’s or Whiskey’s Saloon for local bands, karaoke, or DJs spinning your favorite hits. Live music is a great way to immerse yourself in the local nightlife scene.
• Enjoy Craft Cocktails and Drinks: Whether you’re into craft beers, frozen daiquiris, or unique cocktails, bars like Salty Goat Saloon and Whiskey’s Saloon offer an impressive drink selection. Try local specialties like the Hunch Punch or tropical rum-based cocktails for that PCB vibe.
• Late-Night Fun: If you’re not ready to call it a night, places like Hammerhead Fred’s or The Salty Goat stay open late, offering more time to dance, play pool, or chill with friends. Many venues also have pool tables, darts, or even oversized Jenga for extra fun.
• Hit a Late-Night Happy Hour: Some spots, like Ms. Newby’s and Salty Goat Saloon, offer late-night happy hours. It’s a great way to grab a final drink or snack before wrapping up your night.
  
  

Where to Stay in Panama City Beach?

Nestled along the pristine shores of Panama City Beach, we take pride in curating unforgettable vacation experiences for every guest.

As a premier provider of PCB vacation rentals, Emerald Coast Retreats offers a handpicked selection of properties, ranging from beachfront condos to spacious rental homes, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost convenience and comfort for your stay. Our local team is committed to ensuring that your escape to the Emerald Coast is nothing short of extraordinary.