GROWING COMMUNITIES, STATE-OF-THE-ART SCHOOLS, SHOPPING DESTINATIONS, RECREATION, AND MORE
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WELCOME TO THE HOME OF THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES.
We call it our little piece of paradise, and you can too! You will find our residents are welcoming to newcomers and are eager to share an abundance of recreational, cultural, educational, and business opportunities in this wonderful place we call home.
Located in Northwest Florida, Bay County is nestled between Pensacola and Tallahassee, approximately one hundred miles from either destination. The county comprises seven municipalities, each with its own mayor/commissioner form of government: Panama City, Panama City Beach, Lynn Haven, Springfield, Mexico Beach, Callaway, and Parker. The Bay County Commission governs the unincorporated areas of the community.
We are proud to host Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Activity, Port Panama City, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), Gulf Coast State College, Florida State University Panama City Campus, a public-school system, numerous charter academies, and much more!
Bay County is emerging as Florida’s next big economic engine. The area is focused on aerospace, technology, manufacturing, health sciences, and distribution/logistics. Our aviation industry presence is significant, with ECP playing a major role. Additionally, we are home to the Eastern Shipbuilding Group, one of the county’s largest private sector employers, with over 2,000 employees.
Tourism, our number one industry, is something we are especially proud of. You will find over 27 miles of sugar-white sandy beaches to enjoy, along with numerous activities and attractions. If you prefer freshwater adventures, we have lakes, creeks, and streams perfect for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Bay County is brimming with activities year-round! Our community hosts major music festivals like Gulf Coast Jam, featuring nationally renowned country music artists. Downtown Panama City buzzes with festivals and events, while each community boasts parks hosting weekly music performances. Cultural arts events, including those at the Visual Arts Center, are plentiful. We celebrate the 4th of July and Mardi Gras in St. Andrews and Panama City Beach with great enthusiasm. Bay County is teeming with excitement and energy year-round.
As we continue to grow, whether you are looking to visit or relocate, we are confident that Bay County can meet your needs. Welcome to our beautiful community!
Sincerely,
Patrick W. Chapin President/CEO
NEW HOMES STARTING FROM THE LOW $300Ks
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY. NESTLED ALONG THE BAY. CONNECTED TO EVERYTHING THAT MATTERS.
Alongside more than five miles of bayfront shoreline in northwest Florida lies the perfect coastal community. A place where the best of nature meets the best of neighbors.
FIRST CLASS AMENITIES / NEW TOWN CENTER / FUTURE MARINA
PUBLISHER
Patrick Chapin
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Katherine Santana
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Destination Panama City, Visit Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach CDC, Tyndall Air Force Base Public Affairs, and Katherine Santana
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.
bay county quick facts
HOW BAY COUNTY COMPARES NATIONALLY...
the communities
UNINCORPORATED BAY COUNTY
POPULATION: 190,769
SQUARE MILES: 689 (INCLUDING NAVY BASE AND TYNDALL AFB)
PANAMA CITY
POPULATION: 34,690
CHARTERED: 1909
SQUARE MILES: 35.21
Panama City, a vibrant coastal gem nestled between Pensacola and Tallahassee on Florida's Panhandle, beckons with the serene shores of St. Andrews Bay. Home to over 34,000 residents, this city embodies a unique blend of historic charm and modern vitality.
WWW.BAYCOUNTY.GOV
Unincorporated Bay County operates under the governance of the Bay County Board of County Commissioners, a dedicated five-member board elected to represent our community. Their leadership shapes the future of Bay County, establishing policies and appointing a county manager to ensure effective implementation across all county operations.
Each year, the Commission adopts the millage rate and approves the county budget, crucial decisions that determine the funding for all county departments. Located at the Bay County Government Center, a central hub for community engagement, this three-story facility houses essential departments including Planning and Zoning, Information Technology, Code Enforcement, Development Services, and more. It enhances efficiency, offering residents a convenient, one-stop hub for conducting all their county business needs.
The Government Center, located on 11th Street, houses most Bay County Commission-governed offices and the Commission Chambers. It also accommodates essential services such as Emergency Services, Parks and Recreation, Utility Services, alongside offices for the Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections, Tax Collector, and Division of Motor Vehicles. It is a cornerstone of community governance, ensuring efficient administration and accessibility for all residents.
CITY OF PANAMA CITY CITY HALL 501 HARRISON AVENUE, P.O. BOX 1880
PANAMA CITY, FL 32402
TELEPHONE: 850.872.3000
PANAMA CITY POLICE DEPT.: 850.872.3100
WWW.PCGOV.ORG
From its early 1800s beginnings, Panama City has thrived alongside the tranquil waters and gentle breezes of St. Andrews Bay, shielded by an untouched barrier island. Today, it retains the allure of a quaint fishing village while embracing the conveniences of a bustling metropolis. The city pulses with a dynamic array of commercial and recreational fishing fleets, scenic boat tours, expanding educational institutions, robust shipbuilding and paper mill industries, and a vibrant local culinary scene centered around natural sea salts.
Nestled between Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Activity PC, Panama City is a rich tapestry of arts, music, ecotourism, and technology. The city boasts approximately 200 acres dedicated to leisure activities, featuring expansive walking parks, a state-of-the-art sports complex, a popular dog park, seven waterfront havens, and numerous kayak and boat launches. Its eight clubhouses provide ideal venues for meetings, celebrations, and family gatherings amidst the city's picturesque waterfront, a haven for boating enthusiasts.
Downtown Panama City serves as the cultural heartbeat, anchored by the historic Martin Theatre and the Panama City Center for the Arts, complemented by private galleries that enrich its artistic tapestry. Beyond downtown, Panama City's diverse neighborhoods — from Forest Park and Glenwood to the Cove, St. Andrews, and Millville — each exude their own unique charm and character.
Embracing growth and development, Panama City sees promising projects like Sweetbay, a visionary residential community with a commercial hub and marina underway, and Liberty, a sprawling master-planned development in Panama City North. Education flourishes with top-notch public schools, private academies, Gulf Coast State College, Florida State University Panama City, Troy University's Panama City campus, and the Tom P. Haney Technical Center, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.
Championed by the Panama City Community Development Council, the city continues to attract visitors and businesses alike, fostering enhancements that support both residents and tourists. As the proud seat of Bay County, Panama City offers a robust healthcare network, diverse shopping, acclaimed dining venues, and the renowned Southern hospitality that defines it as the Panhandle's Premier City.
PANAMA CITY BEACH
POPULATION: 19,056
CHARTERED: 1970
SQUARE MILES: 19.5
CITY OF PANAMA CITY BEACH
17007 PANAMA CITY BEACH PARKWAY
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413
TELEPHONE: 850.233.5100
PCB POLICE DEPT.: 850.233.5000
WWW.PCB.GOV
Panama City Beach, home to around 19,000 residents, epitomizes coastal living. Known for its outstanding quality of life, safety, and diverse shopping, the city is often called "the island" due to the surrounding waters, though it's actually a peninsula. Access to the city requires crossing the Hathaway Bridge on U.S. 98 from the east, the Phillips Inlet Bridge on U.S. 98 from the west, or West Bay on State Road 79 from the north.
With nine miles of pristine, sugar-white sandy beaches, Panama City Beach attracts about 4.5 million visitors annually. While many come for the sun and sand, the city also draws crowds for yearround sports tournaments at Frank Brown Park and the Panama City Beach Sports Complex.
the communities
The city hosts numerous special events, including Real. Fun. Fourth., the Pirates of the High Seas Festival, Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Jeep Jam, Gulf Coast Jam, and Ironman Triathlon, among others.
Tourism is the economic cornerstone of Panama City Beach, notably Florida's largest city without a property tax, funded instead by a one percent business tax on all goods sold within city limits.
The city’s retail environment is thriving, with Pier Park and Pier Park North as major anchors.
Panama City Beach continues to enhance its natural beauty, expand recreational opportunities, and improve infrastructure to enrich residents' lives and provide an exceptional visitor experience.
LYNN HAVEN
POPULATION: 20,501
CHARTERED: 1913
SQUARE MILES: 11.8
The City of Lynn Haven is more than just a city; it is a small, charming waterfront community quickly becoming the destination of choice for families in Bay County. With a population of just over 20,000, the city upholds its family- and business-friendly identity, and it has a lively downtown area that preserves and values its local heritage.
CITY OF LYNN HAVEN 825 OHIO AVENUE
LYNN HAVEN, FL 32444
CITY HALL: 850.265.2121
LYNN HAVEN POLICE DEPT.: 850.265.4111
WWW.CITYOFLYNNHAVEN.COM
The city boasts some of the most vibrant aspects of communityoriented entertainment, which is always family-oriented and free to everyone. These local events encourage social interaction and provide Lynn Haven residents and individuals from surrounding areas the opportunity to unite and celebrate their shared interests and values. A connected community is a thriving community, and one that starts with safe neighborhoods, servicing the public’s wants, and offering plenty of events for people of all ages.
The municipality also has many attractive parks for its citizens to enjoy. Whether walking the nature trails at the Bayou Park and Preserve or soaking in the sun at Leslie Porter Park, there is something for everyone to experience. Lynn Haven has made several enhancements to its parks, such as adding sunshades over its playgrounds, new equipment, and replacing old and outdated facilities.
the communities
The city’s revitalization efforts also include newly redesigned city facilities that opened in 2023 – a new city hall, police department, and a sports complex and gymnasium. In addition, construction is underway on several community structures and encompass the preservation of a portion of the old city hall, renovation of the animal shelter, construction of a new Facilities and Maintenance Department building, opening of James E. Rogers Park, and building of an additional parking area for Cain Griffin Park.
Some facilities have already received a makeover, such as the Public Works building, Fire Station #1, Cain Griffin Park ballfields, Leon Miller Splash Pad, Garden Club, Senior Activity Club, A.L. Kinsaul Bark Park, and Leslie Porter Park through the RESTORE Grant.
Lynn Haven is an attractive community that draws new residents year after year. Local satisfaction is high, and visitors leave with positive impressions of this quaint coastal town.
CALLAWAY
POPULATION: 13,045
CHARTERED: 1963
SQUARE MILES: APPROX. 12
CITY OF CALLAWAY CITY HALL 6601 STATE ROAD HWY. 22 CALLAWAY, FL 32404
TELEPHONE: 850.871.6000
WWW.CITYOFCALLAWAY.COM
Callaway is a vibrant community where natural beauty, modern living, and a strong sense of history come together. With pristine waterways, inviting neighborhoods, and plenty of recreational spots, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying the Arts and Conference Center or one of the city’s many parks, you’ll find endless ways to connect with nature and your neighbors.
The parks in Callaway are truly special. Veterans Park offers a peaceful walking path, picnic areas, a playground, and spaces for your furry friends. John B. Gore Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with a boat ramp, floating docks, and a community center. It also has sports fields, a historic schoolhouse and museum, a walking track, and even a new all-inclusive Bankshot Play Court for all ages. Brittany Woods Park is perfect for a stroll, with a walking track and playground, and will soon feature the Callaway Dog Park. For serene water views, head to Patterson and Collinfurst Parks, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic. The Recreation Complex
is a hub of activity, featuring seven ball fields, six soccer fields, a fishing pond, and a mile-long walking trail with exercise equipment. The Arts and Conference Center, located here, offers an auditorium, meeting rooms, and a kitchen for special events.
Callaway’s bustling commercial districts have everything you need, from financial services to diverse dining options and comfortable lodging. Education is top-notch, with Callaway Elementary right in the city and Rutherford High School just a short distance away.
The City Commission is dedicated to ensuring Callaway remains a great place to live, balancing growth with the preservation of property values. With public transportation available through Bayway, you’re connected to the entire county. And if you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Callaway Historical Society’s museum and the “Old School House,” a Florida Heritage Site, both located in John B. Gore Park.
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Callaway is a place where every day offers new opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy life.
PARKER
POPULATION: 4,545
CHARTERED: 1967
SQUARE MILES: 2
CITY OF PARKER
1001 WEST PARK STREET PANAMA CITY, FL 32404
CITY HALL: 850.871.4104
PARKER POLICE DEPT.: 850.871.4100
WWW.CITYOFPARKER.COM
Founded as a community in the early 1800s, the City of Parker is the earliest settled area in the county, celebrating its 50th anniversary as a municipality in 2017. Overlooking East Bay and St. Andrew’s Bay, our beautiful and tranquil city is known for its rich history and stunning sunsets. Parker is an incorporated municipality with a fivemember city council, including an elected mayor, and it has its own Fire/EMS and police departments.
The landscape of Parker has changed dramatically due to Hurricane Michael. Many of the hundred-year-old oaks that the city is known for are gone, but plans are in place to replant more durable trees that can better survive future storms. Although many citizens
temporarily relocated, the storm left us with a blank slate to restore our parks, homes, and businesses, making our community even better. Now, with a post-storm population of around 4,000, many residents are still rebuilding and are determined to stay.
Our neighborhood community features an 18-acre sports complex with sports fields and courts, a walking trail, dog park, and playground. Across the street, our Environmental Exploratorium Park is nestled on the shores of Martin Lake, offering swimming, picnic areas, and wildlife observation spots. One of our most popular attractions is the 20-acre Under The Oaks Park, which includes the Creative Playground, picnic areas, a fitness trail, an observation platform, and a canoe launch.
Although the city encompasses just 2 square miles, residents and visitors enjoy 12 miles of shoreline with boat launches, a spectacular fishing pier, and a southern boundary that borders Tyndall Air Force Base. Whether you are looking to fish, water ski, or simply relax, Parker is a great place to call home!
SPRINGFIELD
POPULATION: 8,151
CHARTERED: 1935
SQUARE MILES: 5.06
CITY OF SPRINGFIELD
3529 E. 3RD STREET
PANAMA CITY, FL 32401
CITY HALL: 850.872.7570
SPRINGFIELD POLICE DEPT.: 850.769.7545
WWW.SPRINGFIELD.ORG
Springfield thrives as a primarily residential city featuring two scenic walking parks, Martin Lake boat ramp access, a playground, and a sports complex with baseball and soccer fields. At Springfield Gardens Park, the city proudly hosts Florida's first Fitness Court Studio, recognized as the World’s Best Outdoor Gym. Future plans include five new parks: Neighborhood Park, Douglas Road Dog Park, Nature Park, Cherry Street Linear Park, and 11-Mile Loop Park.
The city’s dedicated Public Works Department maintains roads, parks, and utilities, while its community-focused Police and Fire Departments ensure safety. In 2024, Springfield will launch its third SRF Water and Sewer Rehabilitation Project to modernize utility lines, following extensive road repaving in 2023. The Springfield Fire Department, known for its swift emergency response, handles all medical calls promptly.
the communities
As Springfield continues to grow, it plans a centralized City complex to streamline services, along with a new Civic Center near Henry Brooks Walking Park. The city also hosts five medical facilities, a veterans’ home, and Rutherford High School, home of the Rams. Located just 4 miles from Tyndall Air Force Base, Springfield maintains its small-town charm while offering an exceptional quality of life.
MEXICO BEACH
POPULATION: 1,000
CHARTERED: 1967
SQUARE MILES: 3.5
CITY OF MEXICO BEACH
201 PARADISE PATH
MEXICO BEACH, FL 32456
TELEPHONE: 850.648.5700
WWW.MEXICOBEACHGOV.COM
Nestled along Bay County’s Gulf coast, Mexico Beach may be its smallest city, spanning less than five miles, but its charm and allure surpass its size. This unconventional beach destination offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, catering to residents and visitors alike throughout the year.
Blessed with pristine, emerald green waters and sugar-white sands, Mexico Beach stands out as a serene vacation spot, cherished for its quiet, non-commercialized ambiance. Families seeking a traditional, laid-back retreat find solace here, drawn to Florida’s "Unforgettable Coast" where Southern hospitality meets Old Florida charm.
With tourism as its economic backbone, Mexico Beach boasts some of the safest beaches in the region, thanks to a natural sand bar that curbs rip currents. Water enthusiasts revel in the city’s threebay public boat ramp, providing direct access to prime fishing spots in the Gulf of Mexico. The marina further enhances the experience with upgraded walkways and versatile boat slips for short and longterm stays.
Running parallel to the Gulf, U.S. Highway 98 offers a seamless, traffic-light-free drive with panoramic beach views. While preserving its Old-Florida ambiance, Mexico Beach is embracing new developments, including several residential projects that are reshaping the community’s landscape.
finding your new home
RESIDENTIAL
Beachy Beach Real Estate
(850) 532-6262
Bluewater Development Group (850) 527-1885
beachybeach.com
Bob Hodges & Sons Realty (717) 649-3191 bobhodgesandsonsrealty.com
Central Panhandle Association of Realtors
(850) 763-8078 cpar.us
Century 21 – Commander Realty (850) 769-8326 C21commander.com
Coastal Sun Realty (850) 249-2050 coastalsunrealty.com
Coldwell Banker Carroll Realty, Inc. (850) 872-8200 coldwellbankerpcfl.com
Residences at Sweet Bay (850) 851-0887 theresidencesatsweetbay.com
Sunnyside Beach and Tennis Resort (850) 234-3385 sunnysidebeachcondo.com
Sunset Village Houses Rental Community (850) 759-4448 sunsetvillageliving.om
Turtle Lake Association (850) 785-7904 turtlelakeapts.com
Kelly McDaniel & Lisa Cooley
REALTORS®
We are committed and driven to provide the best possible real estate experience. Our client’s needs are important to us, and we take the time to really listen. When we go to work, our top priority is making sure our clients feel valued and are taken care of like family.
We believe it is important to always seek to improve ourselves and our understanding of our market That’s why we both participate in our county and city Chambers of Commerce. Growing our knowledge base is a vital part of what we do. We seek out training, designations and certifications that will benefit us as local REALTORS® and equip us to better serve our clients and community.
Our partnership is a special one, but one thing we can always agree on is the importance of relationships We have prioritized that to be our foundation and mission statement.
“We are building relationships one real estate journey at a time.”
K e l l y L i s a &
moving checklist
4-6 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE:
• Have an inventory session. Decide what you want to take and what you would like to get rid of.
• Schedule a garage sale for items you’re not taking. Donate other items to charity and get a receipt for tax purposes.
• Get estimates from moving companies.
• Make any travel arrangements needed for the trip (i.e. hotel/airline reservations).
• Arrange for packing. If you do it yourself, label box contents according to room location.
• If moving out of town, gather personal records: medical, dental, veterinarian, schools, birth, baptismal, marriage, etc.
NOTE: Send school transcripts in advance to the new school.
• Keep track of moving expenses for tax purposes.
• Close local department store and charge accounts you won’t be using once you move.
• Arrange with employers to forward tax withholding forms.
A CHECKLIST FOR GETTING FROM THERE TO HERE
Plan, plan and more planning is the key to a successful move! When you begin your planning process, begin by setting three important dates:
1. Packing
2. Loading
3. Delivery
A good checklist is also essential. By planning early, moving will go more smoothly. Use the following checklist as a guideline to help plan your move!
• Make arrangements to discontinue:
Newspaper Delivery
Water Softener Service
Electricity (check for deposit refund)
– Water Service (check for deposit refund)
– Gas Service (check for deposit refund)
– Telephone Service (check for deposit refund)
– Cable (check for deposit refund)
– Garbage Collection
– Lawn/Pool Service
– Pest Control service
Other: _____________________________________
• Make arrangements to have the above services completed at your new home.
• Notify your change of address to: – Post Office
Social Security Office
Insurance Companies
Bank
Credit Cards
Magazines
Friends and Relatives
Other: _____________________________________
2-3 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE:
• Fill and transfer prescriptions for family and pets: Pack them so they can travel with you.
• Begin packing items that are seldom used.
• Safely dispose of or give away household flammables or goods movers cannot transport.
• Make arrangements to have your new home cleaned or clean it yourself.
1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR MOVE:
• Defrost refrigerator and freezer. Dispose of frozen foods.
• If needed, transfer bank accounts and remove items from safe deposit boxes.
• Pack items to be carried in the car.
• Have car serviced for the trip.
• Verify the movers have the correct moving information.
• Other: _______________________________________
MOVING DAY:
• Pack a box of basics you will need immediately when you move in and mark it “Open me First.”
• Pack your suitcases.
• Conduct a last-minute walk-through. Make sure everything is locked and closed.
• Other: _______________________________________
DELIVERY DAY:
• Be at your new address before the movers arrive.
• Check off your inventory list.
• Other: _______________________________________
• Area’s only designated Level II Trauma Center
• Region's only comprehensive heart and vascular program
• Accredited Stroke Center
• A Fortune/PINC AI top 15 health system nationwide
recreation
FRANK BROWN PARK
16200 PANAMA CITY BEACH PARKWAY
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413
Frank Brown Park is part of the City of Panama City Beach Parks and Recreation Department. Over 200 acres are dedicated to outdoor recreation facilities at neighborhood and community parks surrounding the beaches. The playgrounds, picnic area, saltwater fishing pier, freshwater youth fishing lake, greenways and trails are open to the public year round. The Community Center and Senior Center hosts special events, civic club meetings and a variety of classes for all ages.
Frank Brown Park and Aaron Bessant Park have become the premier venue for events in Panama City Beach. The festival grounds in Frank Brown Park contain a 22-acre festival site with a 10,000+ person capacity. Frank Brown Park is home to many tournaments/events such as: Gulf Coast Jam, festivals, horse shows, car shows and more. The amphitheater at Aaron Bessant Park can seat 7,500 people, and also has 10 acres of festival lawn.
CURRENT FRANK BROWN PARK FACILITIES:
9 softball/baseball fields, 2 t-ball fields, 1 miracle league field, 6 soccer fields, 3 multi-purpose fields, 4 tennis courts, 1 outdoor basketball courts, 2 shuffle-board courts, 1 indoor gymnasium, 3 playgrounds, an Imagination playground, large picnic pavilions, 1 festival site, 1 freshwater youth fishing pond, 1.5 miles of greenways and trails, 3 fenced in dog play areas and 1 aquatic center.
The Panama City Beach Aquatic Center is located in beautiful Frank Brown Park. The state of the art facility features a heated/cooled 50 meter Olympic Pool with a one meter springboard diving well and a seasonal 5,000 square-foot kids activity pool.
CONSERVATION PARK
100 CONSERVATION DRIVE
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413
A favorite destination for locals and tourists, the PCB Conservation Park offers opportunities for a variety of outdoor recreation. The City of Panama City Beach has established the Panama City Beach Conservation Park in cooperation with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for the enjoyment of hikers, bikers and nature lovers. Encompassing over 2,900 acres, the Conservation Park has 24 miles of trails and over a mile of boardwalks that lead through Cypress Domes. The trails range anywhere from 0.6 miles up to 11 miles, with 12 different trails to choose from. Parking and public restrooms are located at the Trail
Head building along with picnic tables and a covered pavilion available for rent. Hours of operation are dawn to dusk, seven days a week. Be sure to bring your binoculars and cameras for bird and wildlife watching. Dogs are permitted, but must be kept on leashes.
ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK
4607 STATE PARK LANE
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32408 (850) 233-5140
St. Andrews State Park is consistently one of the most visited state parks in Florida. The park is situated on a peninsula at the far eastern edge of Panama City Beach, and is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the south, the St. Andrews Pass to the east and the Grand Lagoon to the north.
Visitors can go off road and explore trails with an amazing variety of wildlife or cast their lines from one of several exclusive piers. The park also offers biking, kayaking and shuttles to Shell Island. Brightly colored marine life can be found not far beneath the surface for snorkelers or scuba divers along the jetties.
Campers can choose from 158 campsites with electricity, water, picnic tables and grills. The park also offers “primitive” camping area for scouts, faith-based groups, and other small, non-profit organized groups. This site is equipped with water, a portable toilet, fire ring and picnic tables. The state park now offers glamping sites for visitors who want a luxurious camping experience amidst the natural beauty of the park. Don’t forget your furry friends at home, both pets and service animals are allowed.
St. Andrews State Park offers two fishing piers, one (the Tiller Pier) on the Gulf Side, and the other fishing pier gives fishermen access to the protected waters of the Grand Lagoon. Fishing or walking on these piers is free, although there is a charge to enter the state park.
recreation
CAMP HELEN STATE PARK
23937 PANAMA CITY BEACH PARKWAY
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413 (850) 233-5059
This 180-arce park is often overlooked. This ecological gem sits on the far western border of Panama City Beach, just over the Phillips Inlet Bridge and close to the border of Walton County. Offering pristine beaches, excellent trails that wind through dunes and scrub oak forests and a rare dune lake, Camp Helen State Park is truly one of Florida’s most special state parks.
Camp Helen State Park is bordered by water on three sides, and the unique combination results in a fresh and saltwater mix, resulting in what’s known as “brackish” water. The park is home to five distinct natural communities including mesic flatwoods, scrub oak, basin swamp, depression marsh and marine unconsolidated substrate. There is no camping at Camp Helen State Park, but fishing and boating is allowed in designated areas.
Other amenities include: Kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals from March-November, Pumpkin Patch and fall festivities in October, Americana Concert Series from December to mid-March and movies and more during the spring and summer.
BAY COUNTY SHOOTING RANGE
10900 STEELFIELD ROAD
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413 (850) 233-5005
The Bay County Shooting Range features supervised rifle and handgun ranges, as well as sporting clays and 5-stand. The range was established in 2014 by Bay County to provide its citizens a place to gain skills and knowledge for safe, responsible firearms handling and target shooting. Contributing partners include the National Rifle Association and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Life Conservation Commission.
AMENITIES INCLUDE:
• 6-position 300-yard rifle range, 16-position 100-yard rifle range, 10-position 50-yard rifle/handgun range, and 19-position 5-yard, 8-yard and 18-yard handgun range
• Automated 18-station sporting clays course
• Automated 5-stand sporting clays field
• 18 3D archery targets
• Target frames on the rifle and handgun ranges are provided. Shooters must bring targets to attach to the center of the frames, or they can purchase targets in the concession store.
• Concession store has restrooms and drinking water, eye and ear protection, ammunition and other convenience items for sale. Rental shotguns and clay carts are available for the sporting clays course.
SHELL ISLAND
A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, Shell Island is an approximately 7-mile long undeveloped barrier island running east to west between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay. This local destination is popular among boaters all along the Gulf Coast. It is a great
place to watch not only boats and ships of all sizes and shapes, but to watch bottlenose dolphins as well. Here you will find Florida at its most natural, where graceful sand dunes, coastal scrub forest, pine hammocks, and an inland lake provide the perfect home for deer, nesting shorebirds, and all manner of coastal creatures, including ghost crabs and endangered species such as Choctawhatchee Beach Mice, piping plovers, snowy plovers, as well as loggerhead and green sea turtles. This local destination is popular among boaters. Shell Island is a natural environment, which means there are no concession stands, no restroom facilities, and no picnic tables, trash receptacles or shaded pavilions. If you go, go prepared, and please take out everything you brought in. While Shell Island was named for the abundance of shells found here, in the more heavily trafficked parts of the island, shells are few and far between, since so many beachcombers are on the hunt for prize shells.
Getting there: There are numerous tours, sailboats & cruises that take passengers & families to Shell Island and some are seasonal, so be sure to check schedules..
PANAMA CITY BEACH PIERS
Panama City Beach offers fishermen four great fishing piers to choose from – three that reach far out into the Gulf of Mexico, and 1 that offers anglers a chance to cast their line into the Grand Lagoon.
The two most prominent fishing piers in Panama City Beach are the identical Russell-Fields Pier and the M.B. Miller Pier, often referred to as the City Pier and the County Pier. Constructed within a year of each other (completed in 2009 and 2010), these two concrete piers are built to resist hurricane damage, and are the longest twin fishing piers on the Gulf of Mexico, stretching some 1,500 feet into excellent fishing grounds! Fish caught in season: Cobia, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Red fish, Blues, Blue liners, Pompano, Flounder, Hardtails and other varieties. Rod rentals, bait and tackle are available on site.
recreation
In addition to fishermen, the piers are popular with spectators as well, who enjoy walking out over the water, witnessing some amazing catches, or just enjoying the unique view of the beach.
FISHING
Bay County is famous for its waters and is the perfect place to find a fishing charter. The turquoise depths off our sandy shores are home to a vast array of wildlife.
Whether you are interested in deep sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, or sitting on a pier in St. Andrew Bay, you’ll be delighted with the catch you reel in. Both novice anglers and old pros are sure to enjoy the salt and freshwater options in the region.
HELP FROM THE PROS:
No matter the size of your group or level of experience, Bay County has the right fishing charter boat for you. With an array of local companies to choose from, these professional guides have the expertise and gear you seek, and many can also provide fishing licenses. Take the hassle out of your vacation by leaving the planning to the experts who know the area and can lead you to the best results. Due to their decades of experience, chartering a fishing boat is the smart approach for a memorable day on the water and the catch to show for it.
Are you planning to fly fish, spearfish or cast a wide net? Are you on the hunt for a prized trophy? Your family may enjoy the calmer waters of St. Andrew Bay, while the sportsman is best suited for the gulf. Bay County is visited by avid fishermen from all over the globe due to the variety of species and conditions available in one area. For instance, this is the place to be if you want to catch your own bait. You can also enjoy bottom fishing around our natural and manmade reefs for fish such as Snapper, Groupers and Amberjack. If you are interested in trolling, you could catch anything from King Mackerel to Redfish to Bluefish. Fly fishermen head to the gulf for Spanish Mackerel or Cobia and to the bay for Ladyfish and Speckled Trout. Sports fishing is for those brave souls interested in bagging a Marlin, Tuna or even a shark! In Bay County, the fisherman is spoiled for choice.
Beyond the types of fishing available, the range of fishing charters naturally includes a range of boats. There is something for everyone, with possible excursions ranging from a couple hours to a
couple days. Do you picture yourself on an intimate vessel, with little separating you from the waves? Or are you seeking a luxury experience, perfect for a large group and days at sea? Whatever you want, you'll be sure to find it. Boats can be found in a wide range of sizes and amenities.
Most professional charter fishing companies will provide a fishing license for their customers. However, visitors can also obtain a shortterm fishing license through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. For more information, visit myfwc.com/license.
PANAMA CITY BEACH PUBLIX SPORTS PARK & STADIUM COMPLEX
Through a public-private partnership with the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, St. Joe Company and Bay District Schools, 210 acres of land were donated for the $37 million-dollar sports complex. The Panama City Beach Sports Complex boasts 160 acres of premium, flexible space to provide visiting teams, players and coaches with a unique experience when participating in events or training for the upcoming season.
The Panama City Beach Sports Complex is the premier destination for travel sports tourism in Northwest Florida and beyond. The facility features 13 configurable fields, 9 synthetic fields and 2 championship fields. The flexible design accommodates soccer, lacrosse, football and flag football, field hockey, as well as baseball and softball. The combination of high quality visitor amenities, state-of-theart amateur athletic facilities and creative site design, will set a new standard for sports complexes throughout the country.
LYNN HAVEN BAYOU PARK & PRESERVE
4770 COUNTY ROAD
LYNN HAVEN, FL 32444 (850) 265-2121
This 98-acre Bayou Park and Preserve is the only preserve-like park in Bay County east of the Hathaway Bridge. The project was put together by a partnership with the Trust for Public Land and the Department of Environmental Protection and was gifted to the City of Lynn Haven. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and offers a handful of amenities; Disc golf, a playground, Picnic Pavilions, a kayak launching station, four restrooms, an outdoor classroom, fitness trails and scenic overlooks.
Concession Stand, Football Field, Playground, Restrooms, Soccer Fields
Baseball Field, Softball Field, Concession Stand, Football Field, Off-Leash Dog Park, Pavilion, Picnic Areas, Playground, Restrooms, Tennis Courts
living
SHOPPING
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
WWW.PCDIB.COM / 850.785.2554
Panama City takes pride in its historic shops lining Harrison Avenue and neighboring streets in the downtown area. The beautifully restored buildings offer a unique shopping experience.
Antique, novelty, jewelry, clothing, photography, and one of a kind shops are interspersed with quaint restaurants and dance studios. This historic district is within strolling distance of St. Andrews Bay and downtown marinas.
HISTORIC ST. ANDREWS
WWW.HISTORICSTANDREWS.COM / 850.872.7208
Historic St. Andrews is a quaint fishing village located in Panama City, Florida. Visitors are welcomed like family at the many unique shops, award-winning restaurants, and museums on St. Andrews’ Beck Avenue.
Visit the working marina and buy fresh shrimp right off the boat. On Saturday, don’t miss the Market at St. Andrews. Local craftspeople, as well as fresh from the farm meats and vegetables are all featured at the market. The market is open every Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., rain or shine.
The Butterfly Garden trail is a delight in the spring and fall when the flowers are blooming, and the butterflies are on the move.
Historic St. Andrews is the place people come to escape, close their eyes, take in a deep breath of the sea breeze, and relax by the bay.
PANAMA CITY MALL
WWW.PANAMACITY-MALL.COM / 850.785.9587
In the aftermath of Hurricane Michael, most of the Mall sustained significant wind and water damage. Although a majority of the mall is closed, it remains a shopping destination with the adjacent Shoppes at Panama City; New York’s Famous Pizza & Pasta, Best Buy, America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, Palm Beach Tan, and Lisa’s Nails.
BAY CITY POINT
Bay City Point is an exciting 200,000+ SF development strategically located in the heart of Panama City, FL at the heavily trafficked intersection of Hwy 77 and E 23rd Street which currently measures over 60,000 AADT. The site is centrally located, easily accessible, and includes numerous national retailers.
PIER PARK
WWW.SIMON.COM/MALL/PIER-PARK / 850.236.9974
Pier Park attracts more than 15 million visitors annually. At least 90% of vacationers visit the Emerald Coast’s premier shopping destination, often referred to as Panama City Beach’s unofficial downtown. Pier Park boasts nearly 1 million square feet of open-air shopping featuring unique retailers, tourist attractions like the SkyWheel, plus dining options. Steps from the sand and in the heart of Panama City Beach, Pier Park is ideally located to serve the area's growing residential community and exploding condo market.
PIER PARK NORTH
WWW.PIERPARKNORTH.COM
With more than 40 options for shopping, dining and service-oriented retailers, Pier Park North is the ultimate shopping experience! Their vibrant presence anchors the heart of Panama City Beach featuring a collection of notable retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kirkland’s, Michaels, PetSmart, Ross, Shoe Carnival, World Market and more! Hungry? Situated on US-98/30A between Destin and Panama City, Pier Park North has everything you love – all in one place.
CULTURE
KALEIDOSCOPE THEATRE
WWW.KT-ONLINE.ORG / 850.265.3226
Originally incorporated in 1976 as a non-profit organization, Kaleidoscope Theatre has developed an amazingly large and diverse “family” of volunteers. Over the years, they have produced live performances of dramas, comedies and musicals for the people of Bay County. They are proud to serve our community and to provide a means through which the talents of local artists can find expression.
THE MARTIN THEATRE
WWW.MARTINTHEATRE.COM / 850.763.8080
Originally built in 1936, the Martin Theatre opened its doors as the “Ritz,” one of a chain of movie houses. Early memories boast visits by such notables as Clark Gable, Constance Bennett, Michael O’Shea, William Boyd and cowboy great, Bob Elliot. In the early 50’s, the Ritz chain was bought and renovated by the Martin family. The original marque was replaced with the one now gracing the facade of the building, and the cinema operated as the Martin Theatre until 1978.
In 1978, the Panama City Downtown Improvement Board’s (DIB) H. Mack Lewis, Chairman, bought the vacant building. The DIB, with funding from the State, completely renovated the facility, turning it into the current state-of-the-art-facility. Since that time, the Greenroom was added, a 1,500 sq. ft. reception and meeting room.
PANAMA CITY CENTER FOR THE ARTS
WWW.PCCENTERFORTHEARTS.COM / 850.640.3670
The Panama City Center for the Arts is the arts center in Historic Downtown. They have four galleries, a gift shop, a self-serve wifi coffee café, library, kids art studio, and three classrooms—digital, painting, and pottery—all in the city's historic 1925 City Hall building. Visit them to see free art exhibitions, take classes, and attend fun arts events! They are open Tuesday through Saturday. For more information call 850.640.3670, or visit their website at PCCenterfortheArts.com.
BAY ARTS ALLIANCE
WWW.BAYARTS.ORG / 850.640.3670
Bay Arts Alliance is Bay County's local arts agency. In addition to managing arts buildings like the Center for the Arts, they are also working to help develop a thriving arts community in the county. Their vision is to put art on every corner of Bay County. First up... murals! The Bay Arts Mural Program commissions several murals every year to ensure everyone has access to quality art. Check out their website at BayArts.org to discover more.
CHANGESpark
• High yield deposit accounts
• Low rate vehicle, personal and mortgage loans
• Full suite of digital services
• Earn cash back rewards monthly with Ignite Checking
Please refer to www.MyFlorida.com or one of the following websites for Florida relocation requirements and resources:
• Elder Affairs (Retiring in Florida) www.elderaffairs.state.fl.us
• Department of Revenue: www.myflorida.com/dor
• See these sections of the Florida Statutes: www.leg.state. fl.us
• Section 222.17 (homestead exemption)
• Section 1009.21 (residency requirements for tuition and state financial aid for education)
• Section 196.015 (permanent residency)
• Section 372.57 (fishing licenses)
STATE TAXES
• Personal Income Tax: None
• State Retail Sales Tax: 6.0 percent
• Florida corporate income tax: 5.5% on net income
• Ad valorem (real estate) taxes combine city, county and school district levies, plus special assessments.
• Homestead Exemption: Up to $50,000
• Property is assessed at approximately 100 percent of true market value.
• Bay County ranks among the lowest millage rates in the state.
• License Tax: 1 percent (Cities of Panama City & Panama City Beach only)
• Gasoline Tax: 7 cents per gallon (local), 36.7 cents per gallon (state)
NAME CHANGE FOR UNITED STATES CITIZENS
If you have legally changed your name by marriage or court order, you must submit the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order. No photocopies will be accepted unless certified by the issuing authority. New residents who have a current driver’s license from another state are required to pass only the vision portion of the examination. First-time applicants must take vision, written and road tests. Applicants should make an appointment to take the drivers examination.
DRIVER’S LICENSES AND ID CARDS
WWW.FLHSMV.GOV
The name assigned to the social security number must match the name that will appear on the Florida driver’s license or identification card. If you have recently changed your name, update your records with the Social Security Administration before you apply for your license or identification card. The cost of a first time Florida license is $48. The license is valid for eight years. License renewal is $48 and
a replacement license is $25. Document requirements include: birth certificate, social security card, two proofs of residential address. Name changes must show marriage license or divorce papers.
AUTOMOBILE TAGS AND REGISTRATION
New residents must register their vehicles and obtain a Florida license tag within 10 days of establishing legal residency, beginning work, or registering children in the public school system. Military personnel and students are exempt. Proof of Florida insurance, your out-ofstate title or registration, and a completed Florida State Form 82042 which verifies the vehicle’s identity number and odometer readings is required. Please visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle’s website at www.flhsmv.gov for more information or the Bay County Tax Collector website at http://tc.co.bay.fl.us
BAY
COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICES/ DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES OFFICES
(OFFICE HOURS ARE 8 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M.)
850 W. 11th St.* Panama City, FL 32401
850.248.8501
17109 Panama City Beach Pkwy* Panama City Beach, FL 32413
850.233.5035
801 Florida Ave.
Lynn Haven, FL 32444
850.271.8850
(written test only)
805 S. Tyndall Parkway* Callaway, FL 32404
850.872.4654
* also a DMV office - arrive before 3 p.m. for Driver's License Testing
SERVICES
VOTER REGISTRATION
Voter registration can be done at the Bay County Supervisor of Elections Office, local libraries, driver’s license offices, or completed/printed online and mailed in. You may register to vote if you are a U.S. citizen and a legal resident of Bay County, 18 years of age or older, in possession of your civil rights and not currently adjudicated mentally incompetent. You can pre-register on or after your 17th birthday, or upon receipt of a valid Florida driver’s license, whichever occurs first. Florida is a closed primary state; voter registration must be completed 29 days prior to any election. If you are interested in becoming an Election Worker, applications are available online and at the Supervisor of Elections Office.
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
Nina Ward
830 West 11th Street
Panama City, FL 32401
850.784.6100
www.bayvotes.org
FISHING
Whether you are fishing for dinner or for a prized trophy, you’ll find it swimming in the waters surrounding Bay County. You can charter a boat to take you deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico or fish from one of our piers and bridges. A deep-sea catch might include snapper, grouper, tuna or marlin. If you prefer freshwater fishing, cast your line into Deer Point Lake, where your catch could be a large-mouth bass or bluegill.
A license is required to fish, except a “For Hire” Charter Boat where the license is included in the trip cost. Some ages are exempt from licensing. Call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for information or visit www.myfwc.com/ fishing
Fishing licenses are available at various marina stores, tackle shops, and from the Bay County Tax Collectors offices, substation, or online at https://license.myfwc.com. Licenses are renewable annually and the cost varies.
FWC Phone Numbers
Panama City Office – 850.265.3676
Tallahassee Office – 850.488.4676
Fishing License – 888.347.4356 (toll free)
UTILITIES
Electric, gas, telephone and water companies require deposits for first time service in the area. Deposits vary in each municipality and for the county.
ELECTRICITY
Florida Power and Light
800.225.5797 www.fpl.com
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative
850.265.3631 www.gcec.com
Duke Energy
800.700.6143 www.duke-energy.com
NATURAL GAS
TECO Peoples Gas
850.914.6143 www.peoplesgas.com
WATER SERVICES
Water services are offered through the County and each of the municipalities; if you live within the city limits, please contact the city office of that municipality.
Bay County Water Division
850.872.4785
PHONE,
CABLE, INTERNET
AT&T
1.888.757.6500
www.att.com
Comcast
1.800.391.3000
www.comcast.com
WOW!
850.215.1000
www.wowway.com
LIBRARIES
Citizens in Bay, Gulf, and Liberty Counties made 303,869 visits to the eight locations of the Northwest Florida Regional Library System FY2019.
Bay County Public Library 898 West 11th Street
Panama City, FL 32401
850.522.2100 www.nwrls.lib.fl.us
Panama City Beach Public Library 12500 Hutchison Boulevard
Panama City Beach, FL 32407
850.233.5055
www.facebook.com/PCBLibrary
Parker Public Library 4710 2nd Street Parker, FL 32404
850.871.3092
AIRPORT
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is one of the newest airports in the United States. Located only minutes from Panama City Beach and downtown Panama City, ECP is one of the most popular transportation choices for travelers. The airport is owned and operated by the Panama City-Bay County Airport and Industrial District, otherwise known as the Airport Authority, and services flights from American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines.
For more information, visit their website: iflybeaches.com 6300 W. Bay Parkway | Panama City, FL 32409
850.763.6751
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
BAYWAY
WWW.BAYWAYTRANSIT.ORG / 850.769.0557
Bayway serves Bay County including Panama City, Parker, Springfield, Callaway, Lynn Haven and Panama City Beach. For route maps and service areas, call or visit the website. Bayway recently announced they will be providing transportation services on Sundays, making the business open seven days a week. The trolley operates Monday-Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and SaturdaySunday on a limited schedule. Bay County’s Public Transportation System was created in 1983 to provide residents and visitors with transportation services in and around Bay County. As the demand for public transportation increased, the original service area was expanded to encompass other areas of the county. Today, Bayway continues to be a safe, reliable, and affordable transportation option that makes destinations all over Bay County accessible to everyone.
To track your trolley in real-time download one of our partnering tracker apps at BayWayTransit.org.
education
BAY DISTRICT SCHOOLS
The dedicated team of professional educators, support staff and administrators at Bay District Schools (BDS) is committed to delivering high-quality educational services to all students in Bay County. With a diverse array of schools and talented educational leaders, students have access to a plethora of rigorous academic opportunities with a deep level of individualized support and differentiation.
Students with special needs are served in the regular academic setting where appropriate. They can also choose to attend many special service schools if parents prefer those educational settings. Elementary schools prioritize character-building and citizenship lessons alongside academics. Students have multiple opportunities throughout the year to volunteer and to “give back” to the community that supports them.
Middle school students have the ability to prepare for advanced academic coursework in high school by enrolling in a variety of advanced and pre-AP classes where available. In high school, students can further advance their post-graduation pathways by participating in a wide variety of Dual-Enrolled, Advanced Placement, IB and AICE coursework. Many students graduate from high school with an Associate’s Degree already in hand, thanks to their partnership with Gulf Coast State College. Other students choose to enroll in specific Career and Technical Education courses that lead to valuable industry certifications, college credit, and job opportunities with high-wage positions.
While academics are the primary responsibility, the district places a high priority on safety and security. Working in tandem with area law enforcement officers and District Safety and Security Department, all campuses are protected with their own dedicated law enforcement officers, secure perimeters and controlled access points.
Community involvement is welcome and is always in need of mentors, volunteers, guest speakers and other business leaders who want to work with our students and support our schools.
• Other 7.4% / 1,660 (i.e., American Indian, Asian, Pacific Islander and multi-racial)
OTHER STUDENT STATS
• Student with Exceptionalities (ESE which includes gifted students) 5,905
• Homeless Students 1,285
• English Language Learners (ELL) ...................... 1,338 44 different languages spoken by ELL students from 43 countries
GRADUATING SENIORS
• Students are recognized in the National Merit Scholarship program every year
FEDERAL GRADUATION RATE (STANDARD DIPLOMA) DISTRICT
• A. Crawford Mosley High School
J.R. Arnold High School
education
COVENANT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
WWW.CCS.PC.NET / 850.769.9354
The right education opens doors, but a classical and Christian education will prepare your child for life and eternity. The heartbeat of Covenant Christian School is rigorous academics, loving personal attention, and a daily Biblical focus in all subjects as seen from a Christian world and life view. Students learn to see the big picture of history and time through the integrated study of Literature, Theology, History, Latin, Logic, Math, Science, Physical Education, Music and Art. CCS students rank among the highest in their peer groups on the nationally standardized IOWA Assessments. CCS, where students learn to love and love to learn to the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ.
HOLY NATIVITY EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
WWW.HOLYNATIVITYSCHOOL.COM / 850.747.0060
Serving Bay County for over 6o years, Holy Nativity Episcopal School provides an education for students from Jr. Pre-K through 8th grade. Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools for 28 years, Holy Nativity has integrated, advanced subject area course work, as well as education in the Arts and personal fitness. Before and afterschool care is available daily. Holy Nativity, like fellow members of the National Association of Episcopal Schools, is an inclusive Christian environment welcoming students of diverse religions, races, and economic backgrounds. Tours of the campus, a historic landmark in Bay County, can be arranged by contacting the Office of Admissions.
PANAMA CITY TRILINGUAL SCHOOL
WWW.PCTRILINGUAL.ORG / 850.257.5054
The Panama City Trilingual School was founded in 2012 as a private educational co-op after the closure of Renascence International School. Renascence International School was a private trilingual school located in Panama City that provided multilingual studies in Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. Kellie Dingus and the founding parents valued the precociousness and mental growth that multilingual studies encouraged in their children. The Panama City Trilingual School incorporated is dedicated to the mission of continuing to expand our students’ access to linguistic, academic and cultural studies that will prepare them for bright futures.
ST. JOHN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
WWW.STJOHNCATHOLICSCHOOL.COM / 850.763.1775
St. John Catholic Academy is a private preschool, elementary, and middle school serving infants through 8th grade for students of all denominations. We are a vibrant community made up of families, teachers, and community members who believe a Catholic education
is essential in creating children who love God and will excel in the future. St. John Catholic Academy prepares and educates students for academic success and forms Disciples of Christ for life. Our unique classes are sized to allow for highly individualized attention. Students use resources that keep them engaged and learning, helping our students rank among the top private schools nationally, and we expect nothing less.
TROY UNIVERSITY
WWW.TROY.EDU / 850.747.0634
Troy University is a regionally accredited institution with a tradition of teaching excellence dating back to its founding in 1887. Falling under the University’s Global Campus operation, TROY has two Bay County locations to service primarily adult, non-traditional students by offering programs 100% online and fully in-class. Course offerings in-class include the Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology and through the TROY Online division a full array of Associate, Bachelor and Master degrees are available. Conveniently located on Tyndall AFB and on Airport Road in Panama City, the TROY administrative offices provide services to all students pursuing their degrees either in-class or in a distance learning format.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) is known for more than just world-class aviation and aerospace programs. ERAU offers degree options ranging from Project Management to Engineering. The Embry-Riddle Tyndall/Panama City Campus offers 17 bachelor’s degrees, and 23 master’s degree programs. ERAU, located on Tyndall Air Force Base, has been working with the U.S. Military service members and civilians since 1970. They have more than 130 worldwide locations and more than 90 campuses on military installations around the globe. Embry-Riddle’s flexible degree delivery methods include courses in a classroom, webcam based learning, and online. Terms are offered every month and each term is 9-weeks in length. Give ERAU a call—850-283-2315 or email us at tyndall@erau.edu.
Live the life you’ve dreamed at Latitude Margaritaville Watersound!
Sunshine and cool breezes. Palm trees and margaritas.
Welcome to Latitude Margaritaville, a 55-and-better community inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett, built on food, fun, music and escapism.
Escape to the place where fun and relaxation meet.
Escape to island-inspired living as you grow older, but not up.
Escape to Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, located on Hwy 79, less than 8 miles from the beach. New homes from the $300s
9201 Highway 79, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Mon. - Sat. 9:00am - 5:00pm | Sun. 11:00am - 5:00pm SALES CENTER AND 13 MODELS OPEN DAILY!
LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE WATERSOUND (866) 393-6650
LATITUDE TOWN SQUARE – AMENITIES NOW OPEN!
• Paradise Pool with Beach Entry and Tiki Huts
• Latitude Town Square with Live Music Bandshell
• Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant with Panoramic Views of the Intracoastal Waterway
• Overlook Bar
• Fins Up! Fitness Center with Indoor Pool
• Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball Courts
• Town Square Game Lawn
• Barkaritaville Dog Park
• Walking Trails and Multi-Use Sport Court
education
GULF COAST STATE COLLEGE
WWW.GULFCOAST.EDU / 850.769.1551
Gulf Coast State College (GCSC) provides a first-class education with an emphasis on success, regardless of students’ academic background or age, focusing on their dreams and goals. Gulf Coast offers a variety of program and certificate options focused on quality and practicality, and because the College has the lowest instate tuition rate of any other state college or university in Florida, a degree from GCSC is a tremendous value.
The College offers four bachelor’s degrees in Digital Media, Technology Management, Nursing and Organizational Management with specializations in Entrepreneurship, Health Services Administration and Emergency Services Administration. Students may pursue an Associate in Arts degree with many different program options, or workforce-specific Associate in Science degrees and technical certifications, including our most popular programs in Culinary/Hospitality, Unmanned Vehicle Systems, Health Sciences, and Engineering Technology.
Gulf Coast State College graduates are extremely successful, whether transferring to state universities or completing GCSC’s four year degrees. The College serves more than 10,000 students annually in traditional classes, online courses, Continuing Education and professional training courses. In addition, GCSC is also recognized as one of the top-tier, military friendly colleges in the country, providing a supportive environment for active duty, reservists and dependents, as well as veterans. Classes are offered at convenient times and in multiple locations, as well as online and distance education courses. GCSC holds classes at the Main Campus in Panama City, the North Bay Campus in Southport, Tyndall Air Force Base and the Gulf/Franklin Campus in Port St. Joe.
FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY
PC.FSU.EDU / 850.872.4750
FSU Panama City offers students the opportunity to earn a nationally recognized Florida State University degree, while providing a fouryear undergraduate experience, as well as graduate programs on a beautiful waterfront campus. FSU Panama City offers liberal studies
courses and lower-division prerequisites required to complete any of the high-demand, undergraduate degrees with smaller class sizes and more one-on-one support.
FSU is ranked 19th among all public national universities in U.S. News and World Report’s 2023 America’s Best Colleges. This is the fourth consecutive year FSU has been in the Top 20. FSU has been named the 8th Best Value College in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 Best Online Programs.
Undergraduate and graduate degree programs at FSU Panama City include Electrical, Computer, Civil, Mechanical and Systems Engineering; Computer Science; Law Enforcement Intelligence; Accounting; Entrepreneurship; Psychology; Social Work; Recreation, Tourism and Events; Public Health; Nurse Anesthesia and much more.
FSU Panama City is one of few schools in Florida that offer an Underwater Crime Scene Investigation Minor. This unique minor is offered through the Public Safety and Security program. This course and many others at FSU Panama City are offered both in person or online.
FSU Panama City finished the construction of their student housing right on the bay, Seminole Landing. The new development feature one, two and four-bedroom floor plans in a variety of layouts. The apartments are fully-furnished, and include an in-unit washer and dryer, vinyl plank wood flooring, energy-efficient appliances, and TV service. Residents have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, study rooms, common area with TV on every floor, and plenty more!
tourism & business
TOURISM
Tourism is Bay County’s number one industry, generating over $3.1 billion in direct visitor spending. Tourismgenerated revenue and tourism related taxes benefit every resident of Bay County.
The Bay County Tourist Development Council (TDC), Panama City Community Development Council (CDC) and Mexico Beach Community Development Council (CDC) are all responsible for marketing Bay County as a year-round tourist destination, funded through a 5% tourist development tax applied to short-term overnight accommodation rentals, which equates to about 19 million visitor days/nights each year. The tax also pays for beach restoration, cleaning and maintenance efforts, as well as event support.
The TDC and CDCs have adopted a strategic focus to enhance the visitor experience, to develop the area into a year-round destination, to effectively market Bay County and to diligently protect our most important natural resources – our coastlands and our beach.
For more information on Bay County Tourism, visit VisitPanamaCityBeach.com, destinationpanamacity.com or mexicobeach.com.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE OF BAY COUNTY
WWW.BAYEDA.COM / 850.215.9965
Welcome to Bay County, Florida! Bay EDA is delighted to have you in our community and hope you are enjoying the unsurpassed quality of life and exceptional business climate.
Bay EDA supports the existing pillars of the economy and is dedicated to growing and diversifying the Bay County economy. Public and private partners are committed to growing quality jobs in the targeted sectors of aviation
and aerospace, technology, advanced manufacturing, distribution, and logistics. Whether someone is looking to start, expand, or relocate their business, Bay EDA has the tools, resources, and support available to make an informed and smart decision to ensure success in Bay County.
Bay EDA’s team of professionals is available to confidentially assist those interested in doing business in Bay County with the following services:
• Confidential Project Management
• Site Selection
• Customized Research
• Demographic and Labor Market Analysis
• State and Local Incentives Assistance
• Permitting Assistance
• Workforce Development
• Public/ Private Partnerships
• Real Estate Marketing
Once settled, Bay EDA hopes to have the opportunity to meet you and would love for you to help spread the word about the great assets here.
BAY COUNTY’S COMMUNITY ASSETS
• Two pad ready economic development sites certified by McCallum Sweeney International Site Location Consultants
• Certified site with direct rail access at the Port’s Intermodal Distribution Center
• International Airport with a 10,000 foot runway and thousands of acres for development
• Strong Deep-Water Port
• Freight rail & interstate connectivity
• Tier-One Research University Regional Campus
• Skilled workforce bolstered by major military presence
• Advanced Technology Center
• No State Income Tax
• Right to Work State
tourism & business
DISTRIBUTION
VENTURECROSSINGS ENTERPRISE CENTER in West Bay of Panama City Beach, offers a strategic location for those seeking to launch, expand or consolidate a business. Numerous real estate options exist—pad-ready sites, build-to-suit construction, and thousands of acres of developable land — offering businesses flexibility and capacity to grow. The location allows for the potential of 24/7 operations and transportation options via air, land or sea.
Anchored by Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, major arterial highways and several Florida Gulf Coast military installations, this growing commercial hub can provide the connections and solutions for your expanding business. A premier location, affordable land, and a motivated workforce with numerous training and educational facilities nearby, create a nurturing environment for businesses.
THE BAY LINE RAILROAD connects freight service throughout the continental U.S. linking to CSX’s 21,000-mile network, while serving major population centers in 23 states east of the Mississippi and parts of Canada. It also connects to Norfolk Southern, linking 22 states and every major container port in the eastern U.S.
PORT PANAMA CITY is a growing, deep-water port located directly on St. Andrews Bay in Panama City with Free Trade Zone status. It has facilities for handling general and bulk cargo and provides a Gulf Coast gateway to shippers and consignees in Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee and the Carolinas. Key commodities handled at the port include containerized cargo, forest products, copper, and steel. Bulk Cargos include wood pellets, aggregates, and molasses. The Port Authority has recently completed the development of a $65 million forest products terminal to accommodate ongoing growth of cargo activity. The Port also has industrial sites available at its 200 acre Intermodal Distribution Center located on Highway 231 (15 miles north of Panama City).
BAY COUNTY’S TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY NETWORK consists of Bay County highways complemented by U.S. Highways 98 and 231, and Florida Routes 20, 22, 77 and 79. Interstate Highway 10 is located 13 miles from the northern portion of Bay County and 38 miles from the center of Panama City, linking Florida to California and intersecting with nine of the 10 north-south interstate highways.
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
Looking to connect with employment opportunities or qualified job candidates? Look no further than CareerSource Gulf Coast. Recognized as the region’s employment and training agency, CareerSource Gulf Coast offers a variety of employment services to businesses and jobseekers – all at no cost.
CAREERSOURCE GULF COAST
625 HIGHWAY 231, PANAMA CITY, FL 32405
WWW.CAREERSOURCEGC.COM / 850.872.4340
CareerSource Gulf Coast is part of the statewide CareerSource Florida network and offers free programs and services to meet the community’s workforce needs. In Bay County, CareerSource Gulf Coast offers a comprehensive Job Center that provides services to both businesses and jobseekers. For businesses, the Job Center provides assistance with recruiting, screening and assessing job candidates. In addition, the Job Center also provides access to current labor market data and office space for recruiting and/or interviewing applicants. For jobseekers, the CareerSource Gulf Coast Job Center provides job referrals/leads, career counseling services, resume and interviewing assistance, and access to computers and printers for their job search.
Frequent moves associated with the military lifestyle can make finding employment a challenge. The Military Family Employment Program can help. CareerSource Gulf Coast and its partners provide a variety of employment services and assistance for military families. The Bay County area has a lot to offer spouses and dependents of active duty military and activated Florida National Guard and Reserve service members. Career counselors will work one-on-one to help update resumes, prepare for interviews and find reliable employment.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
military installations
U.S. military installations, including Naval Support Activity Panama City, Tyndall Air Force Base, and nearby Eglin Air Force Base, anchor the region's economy and attract research, defense contractors, and aerospace companies.
COAST GUARD STATION PANAMA CITY, adjacent to Naval Support Activity Panama City on Panama City Beach, FL, was established in 1935 at St. Andrews Marina and moved to Alligator Bayou in October 1971.
The main building is 14,000 square feet and is situated on 18 acres of land. The Station has two 45-foot Response Boat Medium, a 29-foot Response Boat Small, and a 24 and 27- foot Shallow Water Response boats to carry out Search and Rescue, Maritime Law Enforcement, Environmental Protection, Living Marine Resource, and Port/ Waterways/ Coastal Security missions. The Station’s area of responsibility extends 50 miles offshore and stretches along 168 miles of coastline from Lake Powell in the west, to Rock Island in the east encompassing 3,900 nautical miles. This large area also incorporates the vigilant watch over 40 bayous, 18 rivers, 16 bays, 3 sounds, 2 lakes and 107.5 statute miles of Intracoastal Waterway. The Station is billeted for 26 active duty Coast Guard personnel and 20 reservists. The Station is the call-out authority for One Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotillas. Coast Guard Station Panama City is the host command for five tenant commands which include: Coast Guard Cutter COBIA, Coast Guard Cutter RIDLEY, Aids to Navigation Team, Electronic Support Detachment, and a Marine Safety Detachment.
In August 2023, Bay County was officially designated a Coast Guard Community, becoming only the 31st community in the United States to receive this recognition.
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE (TAFB) encompasses more than 29,000 acres in southeastern Bay County. The 325th Fighter Wing is the host wing of the installation. Also known as the ‘Checkertails’, Tyndall Airmen are dedicated to their primary mission: “Project Unrivaled Combat Power for America!” Last year the wing transitioned from a training to a combat-ready wing and welcomed its first
F-35A Lightning II aircraft. When the transition is complete, the 325th Fighter Wing will become the Air Force’s newest operational fighter wing with three F-35 squadrons tasked to maintain combat readiness in support of national defense. Tyndall AFB is also in the process of rebuilding into the Department of Defense’s first-ever “Installation of the Future” after it was destroyed by Hurricane Michael in 2018. The almost $5 billion rebuild is the largest installation build in DoD history and is leveraging cutting-edge technology, resilient infrastructure, and increased security to enable efficient and effective mission execution.
Over six thousand military, civilians and families live and work on Tyndall. The base provides support facilities for more than 23 thousand military retirees and their families and has a local economic impact that exceeds $4.5 billion.
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY PANAMA CITY (NSA PC) has its origins in the mine countermeasures research conducted during World War II at the U.S. Naval Mine Warfare Test Station, Solomons, MD. In July 1945, the station was moved from Maryland to Florida, to a tract along St. Andrew Bay.
Over the ensuing decades, the base expanded to over 650 acres and underwent several name changes until it reorganized under Commander, Navy Installations Command in 2003, becoming Naval Support Activity Panama City (NSA PC) and reporting to the Commander, Navy Region Southeast.
The primary mission of NSA PC is to provide, operate and maintain facilities, provide defense and physical security of critical infrastructure and provide operational support to the Fleet, Fighter and Family, and supported commands.
Major tenants include Naval Surface Warfare CenterPanama City Division (NSWC-PCD), Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC), Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU), and U.S. Coast Guard Station Panama City. Together, NSA PC employs over 4,000 personnel with an annual payroll exceeding $466 million and contributes over $600 million annually to the local economy through contracts.
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN BAY COUNTY
BAY.FLORIDAHEALTH.GOV / 850.872.4455
The Florida Department of Health in Bay County provides comprehensive public health services. Clinic services include immunizations, TB testing and treatment, STD exams, HIV testing and treatment, women’s health exams and family planning services. Their HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis Prevention program provides rapid and confidential HIV and Hep C testing each Tuesday, with test, treat and PrEP.
Freedom 180 is their positive youth development program that focuses on sexual risk avoidance. The Tobacco Prevention Program includes Students Working Against Tobacco and our Tobacco Free Partnership. The Diabetes Services Program provides education for those who need to manage their diabetes and for those who are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
DOH-Bay’s Environmental Health program is responsible for septic systems, inspecting public pools, and the Florida Healthy Beaches Program that samples beach water biweekly from March – October. Florida birth and death certificates are available. For more information, call 850872-4455 or visit Bay.FloridaHealth.gov.
ASCENSION SACRED HEART BAY (ASHB)
WWW.BAYMEDICAL.ORG / 850.769.1511
Ascension Sacred Heart Bay is a 136 Bed Hospital with 8 operating rooms, 5 cardiac cath labs, and focuses on heart and surgical services, including robotic surgery. Ascension Sacred Heart Bay is a Level II Trauma Center, Level II Adult Cardiovascular Center, AHA Gold Level Stroke Center, and AHA Gold Level PCI. ASHB employs over 1000 individuals in Bay and surrounding counties, and provides services for patients in a seven county area.
ASHB is the only hospital in the Panama City area offering comprehensive cardiac care including open heart surgery, TAVR, and cryoablation. The medical team offers board certified cardiologists, as well as cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons.
ASHB offers pediatric and adult rehabilitation at two locations: 2497 Martin Luther King BLVD, Panama City, and 1111 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach. Both facilities provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
ASHB offers 24/7 emergency services at two locations: the main hospital campus at 615 Bonita Avenue, and the Beach ER at 1111 Panama City Beach Parkway.
HCA FLORIDA GULF COAST HOSPITAL
WWW.HCAFLORIDAHEALTHCARE.COM / 850.769.8341
HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital is a 238-bed acute care hospital serving Bay County and surrounding communities for 45 years. Located in Panama City, Florida, its team of more than 550 providers and 1,100 employees work to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care. With the area’s only designated Pediatric ER, four-bed Pediatric ICU and 28-bed NICU, the hospital is ready to care for Bay County’s youngest residents. Average ER wait times are available by texting ER to 32222. The hospital has the only Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI with Resuscitation as recognized by the American College of Cardiology. The hospital has received advanced certification for Primary Stroke and Sepsis as designated by the Joint Commission. The hospital’s cancer program has achieved comprehensive designation by the Commission on Cancer and is an
accredited breast program by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Cancers (NAPBC). These designations demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to safety and quality of care.
HCA has two 24/7 emergency facilities in the Bay County area: HCA Florida Breakfast Point Emergency on Panama City Beach Parkway, and HCA Florida Panama City Emergency off of Highway 231.
/ 850.763.0017
Located at the main campus is the 86-bed inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient center. Emerald Coast Behavioral Hospital also has three satellite outpatient centers located throughout the
Florida Panhandle: Blue Springs Outpatient Center in Marianna and Okaloosa Outpatient Center in Fort Walton Beach. Additionally, they offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy at the main campus in Panama City, as well as the Okaloosa Outpatient Center in Fort Walton Beach.
Emerald Coast Behavioral Hospital provides acute psychiatric services in a secure and nurturing environment to children (ages 4 to 12), adolescents (ages 13 to 17) and adults (ages 18 and older). With confidentiality and sensitivity, their inpatient programs allow patients to begin treatment in an intensive and secure therapeutic environment where they are cared for 24 hours a day by their team of compassionate and highly trained professionals. Treatment includes medication management, individual, group and family therapy, classes in coping skills and a wide variety of therapeutic activities, such as expressive therapy, art and music therapy, recreational therapy and yoga therapy. Their clinical staff utilizes a range of evidence-based treatment, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Their goal is to stabilize acute symptoms as quickly as possible so patients can continue treatment in a less restrictive, outpatient environment. Their four outpatient centers offer intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs with the same patient-centered care for individualized, specific treatment goals, allowing the best continuity of care for our community.
Sophisticated Style. Exceptional Location.
Indulge yourself in the luxury of apartment living at Emerald Park. This newly updated community offers sprawling floor plans and endless amenities, all nestled in the heart of Panama City Beach. This is resort-living, reimagined!
Spacious Floor Plans
Sprawling Clubhouse
Gaming Lawn
Resort-style Pools
Uncover the sensational funk, salt, and soul of Panama City for a fantastic getaway! Indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine with a modern twist, and experience the lively culture with endless adventures that await you. Whether you’re looking for some laid-back lounge time or thrilling escapades, Panama City has it all! Book your trip today and get ready to immerse yourself in a destination like no other. For the best local tips on events, food, and fun, visit DestinationPanamaCity.com.