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Boat tour agency in the Upper Grand Lagoon, Florida
Service options: Online appointments · On-site services
Address: 9006 Laird St, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, United States
Hours: Open 24 hours · More hours
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/p/AF1QipN5F0LLD3G38MjxwysQfgzsVwRwZB9mScEq98xs=w408-h306-k-no
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Our knowledgeable staff enhances your island exploration.
Exploring Dolphin Habitats Around Shell Island
While navigating the azure waters surrounding the renowned island, you encounter a vibrant variety of marine creatures, including dolphins gracefully moving through the waves. These intelligent marine mammals thrive in diverse environments, where seagrass meadows and coral reefs provide both food and shelter. Observers are often captivated by the playful antics of these marine mammals, as they leap and frolic in their natural playground. The connection between dolphins and their surroundings highlights the importance of preserving these aquatic habitats for future generations.
Tourists navigating the blue waters surrounding the famous island come across a lively variety of sea creatures, including dolphins elegantly swimming through the waves. These intelligent marine creatures thrive in diverse environments, where seagrass beds and coral reefs provide food and shelter. Spectators are frequently fascinated by the lively behavior of these marine mammals as they jump and play in their watery environment. The harmonious relationship dolphins have with their environment highlights the importance of conserving these marine sanctuaries for future generations.
Planning a whale-watching trip demands careful organization to guarantee a memorable experience. Choose a reputable tour operator that focuses on safety and environmental responsibility, ensuring the welfare of both participants and marine life. Consider the seasonal migration patterns and local weather conditions, as these factors significantly influence the likelihood of encountering these majestic creatures. Take binoculars and a camera to photograph the fascinating acrobatics of these intelligent mammals as they frolic in their natural habitat.
Thorough preparation is essential for a memorable dolphin-watching experience. Select a trusted tour company that prioritizes safety and environmental care, safeguarding both visitors and marine life. Take into account the migratory patterns and weather conditions, as these elements greatly affect the chances of seeing these magnificent creatures. Arm yourself with optics and a camera to immortalize the captivating antics of these clever sea dwellers as they revel in their aquatic realm.
Watching dolphins glide elegantly through the waters near Panama City Beach offers insight into their intricate social interactions and playful nature. These smart sea mammals display various behaviors, including synchronized swimming and acrobatic jumps, highlighting their agility and communication abilities. Groups are observed collaborating in hunting strategies, showcasing their complex social structures and problem-solving abilities. The tranquil coastal setting offers a perfect backdrop for exploring the intricacies of dolphin interactions and their adaptation to the constantly evolving marine ecosystem.
Watching the enchanting dance of dolphins near Panama City Beach showcases their fascinating social interactions and vibrant playfulness. These intelligent sea animals exhibit various behaviors, from smooth gliding to aerial flips, showcasing their agility and social skills. Spectators can observe groups partaking in collaborative hunting tactics, reflecting their intricate societal frameworks and cognitive prowess. The tranquil seaside setting offers a perfect stage for grasping the subtleties of dolphin engagements and their resilience in the dynamic oceanic habitat.
Embarking on a marine mammal excursion necessitates a commitment to safeguarding the aquatic environment and its inhabitants. Observers should maintain a respectful distance, allowing these intelligent creatures to exhibit their natural behaviors without disturbance. Using environmentally friendly ships and following local regulations minimizes disruptions to the fragile marine ecosystem. Participants are urged to interact with expert guides who focus on education and conservation, enhancing their appreciation for these extraordinary sea creatures.
Venturing on a cetacean adventure demands dedication to preserving the oceanic habitat and its denizens. Spectators should maintain a respectful distance, allowing these intelligent creatures to exhibit natural behaviors without interference. Using eco-friendly boats and adhering to local regulations ensures minimal disruption to the delicate aquatic ecosystem. Participants are urged to interact with expert guides dedicated to education and conservation, promoting a profound appreciation for these extraordinary marine animals.
Panama City Beach | Panama City Beach is a vibrant coastal district known for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, attracting tourists and residents alike. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including water sports, shopping, and dining, making it a popular destination for vacationers. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Laguna Beach | Laguna Beach is a charming coastal neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful white sandy beaches. It offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe with a mix of vacation rentals and residential homes, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Bid-a-Wee Beach | Bid-a-Wee Beach is a charming neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its private, resident-only beach access and tranquil atmosphere. This community offers a peaceful retreat with its pristine white sand beaches and clear Gulf waters, making it a desirable location for both residents and visitors. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Bahama Beach | Bahama Beach is a vibrant neighborhood in Panama City Beach, FL, known for its beautiful sandy shores and lively atmosphere. It offers a mix of residential and vacation properties, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Open Sands | Open Sands is a residential neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and its relaxed, beachside atmosphere. It offers a mix of vacation rentals and permanent homes, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Lullwater Beach | Lullwater Beach is a serene neighborhood in Panama City Beach, FL, known for its picturesque views and close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. This area offers a mix of residential homes and vacation rentals, providing a peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Gulf Lagoon Beach | Gulf Lagoon Beach is a vibrant neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its stunning white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. It offers a mix of residential areas and vacation rentals, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a coastal retreat. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Lower Grand Lagoon | Lower Grand Lagoon is a vibrant neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its beautiful beaches and recreational opportunities. It offers a mix of residential areas, dining options, and access to water activities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Upper Grand Lagoon | Upper Grand Lagoon is a residential and recreational area in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews State Park. It offers a mix of waterfront homes, marinas, and local amenities, making it a popular destination for boating and outdoor activities. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upper_Grand_Lagoon,_Florida |
Edgewater Gulf Beach | Edgewater Gulf Beach is a vibrant neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its stunning white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. It offers a mix of residential areas, resorts, and recreational activities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Long Beach Resort | Long Beach Resort in Panama City Beach, FL, is a vibrant district known for its stunning beachfront views and luxurious accommodations. It offers a variety of recreational activities, dining options, and easy access to the area's famous white sandy beaches. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Sunnyside | Sunnyside is a charming coastal neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its serene beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a mix of vacation rentals and residential homes, providing a peaceful retreat with easy access to the area's attractions. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Hollywood Beach | Hollywood Beach is a picturesque neighborhood in Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its stunning white sandy beaches and vibrant local culture. It offers a mix of residential areas and tourist attractions, making it a popular destination for both visitors and locals. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
St. Andrews State Park | St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach, FL, offers pristine beaches, lush coastal landscapes, and a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The park is also home to diverse wildlife and provides opportunities for camping and picnicking amidst scenic views. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Andrews_State_Park |
Pier Park | Pier Park in Panama City Beach, FL, is a vibrant outdoor shopping and entertainment complex featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and attractions. It serves as a central hub for both locals and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere with events, live music, and a nearby beach access. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Shipwreck Island Waterpark | Shipwreck Island Waterpark in Panama City Beach, FL, is a family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. The park offers a tropical-themed environment with attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for visitors. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Gulf World Marine Park | Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach, FL, offers interactive experiences with marine life, including dolphin encounters and sea lion shows. The park also features educational exhibits and conservation programs to promote awareness of ocean ecosystems. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Ripley's Believe It or Not! | Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Panama City Beach, FL, is a fascinating attraction showcasing an eclectic collection of oddities, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Housed in a uniquely designed building, it offers a blend of entertainment and education, inviting guests to explore the bizarre and unbelievable. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ripley%27s_Believe_It_or_Not! |
WonderWorks Panama City Beach | WonderWorks Panama City Beach is an interactive amusement park combining education and entertainment with over 100 hands-on exhibits. Known for its iconic upside-down building, it offers attractions like a ropes course, laser tag, and a 6D motion ride experience. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WonderWorks_(museum) |
Coconut Creek Family Fun Park | Coconut Creek Family Fun Park in Panama City Beach, FL, offers a tropical-themed adventure with two 18-hole mini-golf courses and a giant Gran Maze for family-friendly entertainment. The park provides a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, set amidst lush landscapes and playful attractions. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory | ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Conservatory in Panama City Beach, FL, offers visitors an immersive experience with a diverse collection of exotic animals and lush botanical gardens. The conservatory focuses on education and conservation, providing interactive exhibits and opportunities to learn about wildlife and plant species from around the world. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Russell-Fields Pier | Russell-Fields Pier, located in Panama City Beach, FL, is a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Stretching 1,500 feet into the ocean, it offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and vibrant marine life of the area. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Camp Helen State Park | Camp Helen State Park is a scenic area in Panama City Beach, Florida, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance with its coastal dunes, salt marshes, and remnants of a historic lodge. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching while exploring the park's diverse ecosystems. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Helen_State_Park |
Panama City Beach Winery | Panama City Beach Winery offers a unique selection of award-winning, fruit-based wines crafted from 100% real fruit, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional grape wines. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings and explore a variety of flavors in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Shell Island | Shell Island is a pristine, undeveloped barrier island located just off the coast of Panama City Beach, Florida, known for its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. Accessible only by boat, it offers a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife and is a popular spot for snorkeling, shell collecting, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shell_Island_(Florida) |
Conservation Park | Conservation Park in Panama City Beach, FL, offers visitors a chance to explore over 2,900 acres of protected land featuring 24 miles of trails and boardwalks through diverse ecosystems. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Florida's wetlands and forests. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Frank Brown Park | Frank Brown Park in Panama City Beach, FL, is a sprawling recreational facility featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and an aquatic center, making it a hub for community events and outdoor activities. The park also hosts concerts and festivals, providing entertainment for both locals and visitors. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
M.B. Miller County Pier | M.B. Miller County Pier is a popular fishing and sightseeing destination in Panama City Beach, Florida, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The pier is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy fishing, walking, and capturing beautiful sunsets. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Race City | Race City in Panama City Beach, FL, is a popular amusement park featuring a variety of attractions, including go-kart tracks, mini-golf, and an arcade. It offers entertainment for all ages with thrilling rides and family-friendly activities. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise | The Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise in Panama City Beach, FL, offers a family-friendly adventure aboard a replica pirate ship, complete with interactive activities like treasure hunts and water gun battles. This two-hour cruise provides entertainment for all ages, featuring pirate-themed music, dancing, and storytelling against the backdrop of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Panama City Beach Conservation Park | Panama City Beach Conservation Park is a natural sanctuary offering over 24 miles of trails for hiking and biking, surrounded by diverse ecosystems including wetlands and pine forests. The park serves as a habitat for various wildlife species and provides visitors with opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
SkyWheel Panama City Beach | SkyWheel Panama City Beach is a towering observation wheel offering panoramic views of the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. Located at Pier Park, it features climate-controlled gondolas for a comfortable and scenic ride. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
Hidden Lagoon Golf and Racetrack | Hidden Lagoon Golf and Racetrack in Panama City Beach, FL, offers a family-friendly experience with two 18-hole miniature golf courses and a thrilling go-kart racetrack. Visitors can enjoy beautifully landscaped courses and the excitement of racing on one of the longest tracks in the area. | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City_Beach,_Florida |
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Boat tour on the River Nile near Luxor in Egypt
Lowell National Historical Park boat tour in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, United States
Boat tour on Loch Ness in Scotland
A boat tour is a short trip in a relatively small boat taken for touristic reasons, typically starting and ending in the same place, and normally of a duration less than a day. This contrasts with river cruising, yacht cruising, and ocean cruising, in larger boats or cruise ships, for any number of days, with accommodation in cabins.
For boat tours, usually a sightseeing boat is used, but sometimes adapted amphibious vehicles or purpose-built amphibious buses. Boat tours are often on rivers and lakes, but can be on canals as well.[1][2] Sustainability is an increasing issue,[3] since there can be an impact on the environment.[4]
Examples
Example boat tours include:
See also
References
External links
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Coordinates: 30°10′36″N 85°48′20″W
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Panama City Beach is a resort town in the Florida Panhandle, and principal city of the Panama City Metropolitan Area. It is a popular vacation destination, especially among people in the Southern United States, and is located in the "Emerald Coast" area. Panama City Beach had a population of 18,094 at the time of the 2020 census, up from 12,018 in 2010.[4] Panama City Beach's slogan is "The World's Most Beautiful Beaches" due to the unique,[5] sugar-white sandy beaches of the Florida Panhandle.
The town is also a popular spring break destination, due to its beach and proximity to most of the Southern United States.
Panama City Beach has dangerous rip currents.[6] Multiple people have drowned at Panama City Beach while struggling against rip currents.[6] Sea conditions are particularly dangerous during periods when lifeguards have put up double red flags, indicating active rip currents.[6] Drowning often occurs when people attempt to swim directly against a rip current.[7] By attempting to directly return to the beach, against the rip current, swimmers get tired-out in the process and drown.[7] Instead, swimmers caught in a rip current should relax, and swim parallel to the beach, until they are naturally carried out of the rip current.[7]
History
Panama City Beach was incorporated as a city in 1970 when a number of beachside communities merged, including the original Panama City Beach resort area founded by Gideon Thomas after the US 98 Hathaway Bridge across the west bay out of Panama City opened in 1929. Thomas purchased land along what became Thomas Dr in 1932 and opened for business in 1936. Also Long Beach Resort, created by J. E. Churchwell when he purchased land that was a former defunct beach resort owned by W.T. Sharpless (who was murdered after trying to collect tax from beachgoers in 1931) at the intersection of Thomas Dr & Front Beach Road in 1932 & opened for business in 1935. Other communities and resorts involved in the merger were Edgewater Gulf Beach, West Panama City Beach, Laguna Beach, Dutchville, Playville and Julia.[8][9][10]
Real estate boom
A construction boom in the early to mid-2000s changed the image of the area due to the older homes and motels being replaced with high-rise condominiums and more expansive homes. However, this is turning unobstructed, low-rise beach views and affordable waterfront property into rarities. At the peak of the real estate boom, many beachfront properties had quadrupled or more in value since 2000. In November 2006 CNN/Money named Panama City Beach the No. 1 real estate market in America for the next five years in.[11]
Beachfront property has sold for upwards of $60,000 per "front foot" (linear foot) at the top of the market. The downturn in the U.S. real estate market in 2007, combined with a surge of new condo construction, brought spiraling prices somewhat under control. With the real estate boom, Panama City Beach became a well known destination for spring break.[12]
Category 5 Hurricane Michael made landfall near Mexico Beach in Bay County on October 10, 2018, becoming one of the strongest and most-destructive hurricanes in American history as it destroyed a large part of the county, including many structures in Mexico Beach and Panama City.[13][14] An EF-0 tornado did minor damage to the northwest part of Panama City Beach, Florida on February 15.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 18.6 square miles (48.2 km2), of which 18.4 square miles (47.6 km2) is land and 0.23 square miles (0.6 km2) – or 1.17% – is water.[15][16]
Panama City Beach is located towards the eastern half of the Florida Panhandle, along the Gulf of Mexico.[15][16] The main roads through the town are U.S. Route 98 and Florida State Road 30. US 98 runs from northwest to southeast just inland from the coast, leading east 10 mi (16 km) to Panama City and northwest 47 mi (76 km) to Destin. FL-30 runs along the coast from northwest to southeast as Front Beach Rd, leading east to Panama City and northwest 15 mi (24 km) to Rosemary Beach. There are approximately 9 miles (14 km) of shoreline in Panama City Beach fronting the Gulf of Mexico.[15][16]
Demographics
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As of the 2020 United States census, there were 18,094 people, 5,538 households, and 3,440 families residing in the town.[20]
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 12,018 people, 5,149 households, and 3,166 families residing in the town.[21]
In 2010,[2] the population density was 653.2 persons per square mile (252.2 persons/km2). There were 17,141 housing units at an average density of 931.6 houses per square mile (359.7 houses/km2).[4]
In 2010, there were 5,149 households, out of which 21.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.9% were headed by married couples living together, 9.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 43.4% were non-families. 31.3% of all households were made up of individuals. 9.5% were someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.22. The average family size was 2.76.[4]
In 2010, 18.0% of the population were under the age of 18, 10.3% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 29.0% from 45 to 64, and 15.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.[4]
In the 2000 census, the median income for a household in the town was $41,198, and the median income for a family was $49,127. Males had a median income of $32,459 versus $22,358 for females. The per capita income for the town was $26,734. About 2.2% of families and 5.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.9% of those under age 18 and 4.5% of those age 65 or over.
Government
The City of Panama City Beach has a council–manager government. The Mayor sits as a Council member-at-large and presides over City council meetings. If the Mayor cannot preside over a City Council meeting, then the Vice Mayor is the presiding officer of the meeting until the Mayor returns to his seat.
The City Manager is responsible for the administration and the day-to-day operation of all of the municipal services and city departments. The City Manager also maintains intergovernmental relationships with federal, state, county and other local governments.
The primary law enforcement agency in the town is the Panama City Beach Police Department. Part of the town is in unincorporated Bay County and is under the jurisdiction of the Bay County Sheriff's Office.
City council
Former Mayors
Services
Education
Surfside Middle School serves as the main middle school and Arnold High School serves as the main high school for Panama City Beach.
Primary and secondary public education is provided by the Bay District Schools (BDS).
The Gulf Coast State College is located in Panama City, just across the Hathaway Bridge from Panama City Beach.
The Florida State University Panama City branch campus is also located in Panama City, just across the Hathaway Bridge from Panama City Beach.
Transportation
The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) provides commercial flights into the area. The airport serves private aircraft, domestic passenger flights, and freight/cargo flights. It is the first international airport to be constructed after the September 11 terrorist attacks. Other modes of transportation include scooters, which can be rented by the day, as well as taxi and shuttle companies, which are permitted by the local police.
Panama City Beach also has public bus transportation known as Bayway available hourly Monday through Saturday. The Bayway runs throughout the county giving its tourists and locals the resource they need to get around Bay County.
Major highways
Sports
The town was home to the Panama City Beach Pirates, a fourth-division soccer team from 2007 to 2015.
It is also notable that World Championship Wrestling held their last WCW Nitro event in Panama City Beach.[22][23] WCW was bought out by their rival competition WWF (now WWE).
Recreation
Gallery
Panama City Beach Panorama
In popular culture
References
External links
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Panama City Beach, Florida.
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It’s a combined experience where you watch dolphins and also enjoy shelling on Shell Island’s beaches.
You can book online through tour operators or at local kiosks in Panama City Beach.
Yes, these tours are very family-friendly, and life jackets are provided for all ages.
Yes, several cruises focus on dolphin watching and include Shell Island exploration.