bay county quick facts

With 27 miles of white, sandy beaches to explore along with snorkeling, fishing, boating and diving, you are sure to get your feet wet. Adventurers can hunt for treasure aboard a pirate cruise, encounter dolphins on one of the beach’s sightseeing boats, or explore beautiful Shell Island and St. Andrews State Park. Thrill seekers hold on tight to ride the world’s largest speedboat, jet ski along the coast, or take a plunge at the 6-acre Shipwreck Island Water Park. Beyond the beach, Bay County enriches the lives of visitors and residents with a strong cultural presence through many organizations. Art and other exhibits, as well as theatrical productions, are brought to the community through the Panama City Center for the Arts, Bay Arts Alliance, Kaleidoscope Theatre, the Science and Discovery Center of NWFL and the Bay County Library.

Those looking to relax can enjoy a round of golf or take a sunset stroll along the many marinas. Families can see tropical animals and beautiful botanical gardens at Zoo World, or catch a sea lion show or swim with the dolphins at Gulf World. If shopping is on your agenda, visit one of the many boutiques in the historic downtown districts of St. Andrews and Panama City, or check out the shopping plazas in town or on the beach.

Anglers from all parts of the world visit Bay County to fish and take part in our tournaments. Whether you are in pursuit of the “big one” or just dinner, it can be found in the warm Gulf waters or freshwater Deer Point Lake. Fish from our 1500 ft. piers or charter a boat to take you deep sea fishing.

After a day in the sun, a taste of local flavor may be just what you’re craving. Bay County has many award-winning restaurants that boast the “seafood you’re eating today was asleep in the Gulf last night.” From downtown cafes and eateries to Gulf-front fine dining, the possibilities are endless.

Our growing community lures people in with the beauty of the area, business and educational opportunities, cultural activities and southern charm. Whether a native or a visitor, everyday can be a vacation in Bay County!

Geographically Speaking

Bay County is located on the Gulf of Mexico in the panhandle region of Northwest Florida. Average elevation is 13 ft. above sea level. Panama City, the county seat, is located approximately 100 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Florida’s capital, 80 miles south of Dothan, AL, 105 miles east of Pensacola, FL, approximately 300 miles from Atlanta, GA, 270 miles west of Jacksonville, FL, and 315 miles east of New Orleans, LA.

St. Andrew Bay surrounds much of Panama City, providing a protected harbor for Port Panama City. Deer Point Lake, located in the central part of the county, provides an abundant source of freshwater for county residents and industries.

The sand on Bay County’s 27 miles of beaches is startlingly white, a perfect foreground for the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The sand is actually quartz crystals, which have been broken down, polished and deposited on the shore.

Climate

The average annual temperature in Bay County is a cool 74 degrees. The average temperature is 89 degrees in the summer and 59 degrees in the winter making the climate very comfortable for most all of the visitors and residents. On average, there are 241 sunny days in Bay County. The US average is 205 sunny days. Bay County receives approximately 60 inches of annual precipitation. The US average is 38 inches. Snowfall is extremely rare. Winds are southerly in the summer and northerly in the winter.

The water of the Gulf can be described as nothing but breathtaking. The crystal clear waters stay an average of 72 degrees year round, making it the perfect way to cool off in the summer. Visitors can experience a variety of sea life in the warm waters year round.