Where
With over 100 beach accesses spanning 27 miles, you have plenty of beaches to choose from in Panama City Beach. Russell-Fields Pier, located at 16201 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL 32413, marks the center of this sandy smorgasbord. It’s directly across the street from Pier Park.
Here’s a list of beach access points and a map. Click on a balloon for the address of the beach it marks.
Vibe
Energetic, casual and colorful, the city’s Pier Beach is a happening spot where you can kick back under a bright beach umbrella, fish, swim, or enjoy the surf with your best friends—including your dog, if you keep him on a leash and stay on the west side of the pier.
See, feel
The Pier, right across the street from bustling Pier Park, extends 1,500 out over the Gulf, inviting visitors to fish or snag a birds-eye view of the marine life below, which sometimes includes sea turtles, stingrays and dolphins.
The quartz sand is a shimmering, soft white wonder that’s cool on your feet and begs you to ditch your sandals, while the water is an enchanting shade of turquoise. It’s considered to be some of the cleanest, purest water in the world as there’s almost no river runoff in the area. The Gulf waters tend to be calm, but occasionally can be rough due to winds and offshore systems.
On or near the beach
Swim, relax, play a game of beach volleyball, or sightsee or fish from the Pier: it’s open 24/7, every day of the year. Mere steps away, Pier Park boasts a hub of eateries, shops, entertainment and attractions, including the SkyWheel.
Kayaking, canoeing and SUP promise still more ways to enjoy the water.
Accessibility
Russell-Fields City Pier is handicapped accessible. Three beach-accessible wheelchairs are available for use, free of charge. Beach Access #56, sited on the west side of the ticket office, has a handicapped-accessible ramp that allows the chairs to get to the beach.
Here’s information about other area accessibility, including beach wheelchairs, beach accesses and attractions.
Facilities
Outdoor showers are located on the access ramps on the east and west sides of the City Pier. Public restrooms are on the east side. A portable restroom is located on the pier. Benches, picnic tables, concessions stands, soda machines, and restaurants are all located at the entrance to the City Pier. Eleven regulation volleyball courts on the east side of the Russell-Fields City Pier are available for public use on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lifeguards
Yes, seasonal. Here are details for area beaches.
Parking
Parking is free and abundant.
