Panama City is experiencing significant growth, with neighborhoods like SweetBay drawing attention as examples of where the region is headed.

SweetBay is a modern, master-planned community offering a blend of new homes, green spaces, and amenities designed to foster a strong sense of place and connection.

As Bay County welcomes a surge of new residents, demand has shifted toward neighborhoods that value walkability, nature, and convenience.

Communities like SweetBay stand out for providing more than just houses—they offer residents outdoor living, community ties, and room to thrive.

This trend reflects ongoing changes in Panama City’s housing market, as the area rebuilds, diversifies, and adapts to newcomers.

Locals across Bay County are seeing these transformations firsthand, with fresh construction and growing neighborhoods shaping the future of the region.

While thousands flock to Panama City Beach's main stretches of sand each year, savvy locals know that some of the most spectacular experiences await just across the bridge at St. Andrews State Park.

This 1,200-acre natural paradise consistently ranks among Florida's most beloved state parks, yet many visitors never venture beyond the main beach area.

Here are five underrated spots that deserve a place on your must-visit list: The Quiet Beach at the Park's Eastern Tip for shell collecting, The Mangrove Boardwalk at Grand Lagoon for wildlife viewing, The Hidden Fishing Spot at the Rock Jetty, The Secluded Picnic Areas Near the Campground, and The Shell Island Kayak Trail Launch Point.

St. Andrews State Park is located at 4607 State Park Lane in Panama City Beach. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year. Admission is $8 per vehicle.

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Another dolphin has been found dead in Northwest Florida, adding to growing concerns about marine mammal health in the region.

The latest discovery comes as local authorities and marine biologists continue investigating a series of dolphin deaths along the Gulf Coast.

Officials are working to determine the cause of death for the dolphin found in Bay County waters.

Marine mammal strandings have been monitored closely by NOAA and local wildlife agencies.

Residents are urged to report any sightings of distressed or deceased marine animals to the appropriate authorities.

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Bay County is home to several dedicated animal rescue organizations working tirelessly to find loving homes for dogs in need.

Bay County Animal Control at 2305 E 15th Street offers a variety of dogs, cats, and small animals ready for adoption. Call (850) 763-4381 to learn more.

Paws and Claws Animal Rescue focuses on saving animals from high-kill shelters, while Forgotten Coast Animal Rescue rehabilitates animals throughout the Panama City area.

The Humane Society of Bay County has served our community for years, and Alaqua Animal Refuge in Walton County is one of the largest no-kill shelters in the Southeast.

This weekend, consider visiting one of these local shelters. You might just find your new best friend waiting for you.

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Spring break brings a wave of excitement to Panama City Beach, spotlighting some of the Gulf’s most iconic dining spots in 2026.

Runaway Island dazzles guests with two levels of beachside dining, spectacular Gulf views, and standout dishes like Runaway Grouper and Seafood Mac & Cheese.

Schooners continues to charm with its laid-back atmosphere, nightly cannon salute, and the luscious Beach Party trio platter served right on the sand.

Pineapple Willy’s, a true local landmark perched over the water, invites families for its signature ribs, zesty Gator Bites, and famous fruity cocktails in collectible cups.

Sharky’s Beachfront, a PCB staple since 1986, offers live music, a kid-friendly playground, and fresh favorites like the Panhandle Seafood Platter.

Señor Frog’s infuses wild, interactive energy with playful décor, music, and a top pick: the Carnitas Plate.

Celebrate spring by sampling the unforgettable flavors of Panama City Beach’s culinary scene.

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The Panama City Farmers Market could soon begin rotating its downtown location every three months, starting in 2026, as part of a new effort to boost downtown vitality.

The Downtown Improvement Board (DIB), led by Jason Kretzer, hopes this plan will balance foot traffic, support a range of local businesses, and gather data on the most successful sites.

The market, normally at McKenzie Park, temporarily moved to Harrison Avenue last year during construction but could soon rotate between these and other downtown spots.

Business owners are split: some, like Pam Armstrong of Tom’s Hot Dogs, see opportunity, while others, such as Ted Holland of Somethin’s Cookin’ Downtown, express concerns about unpredictable crowds.

Managed by Anchored Market Ventures, the Saturday market draws over 100 local vendors and remains a cherished community gathering place.

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