Nightlife

PAINT THE TOWN

Throw down like the locals at beach bars, music halls and more

BY HANNAH BURKE

WHETHER PLANNING A BOYS’ WEEKEND, bachelorette party or a romantic retreat with your S.O., pinpointing your destination’s chief nightlife and entertainment avenues is a must. The former “Spring Break Capital of the World,” Panama City Beach may no longer be the rowdy party powerhouse it once was. Still, its bevy of dance scenes, watering holes and adult-centric venues provide all the makings of a good time. Check out our top gathering spots to get your groove on, responsibly imbibe and make some memories.

SPLASH BAR FLORIDA

One of the first LGBTQ+ friendly nightclubs on the Gulf Coast, the Splash Bar has been a haven for lovers of dance, Las Vegas-style entertainment and late-night libations since 2001. With colorful cocktails such as the house-famous Lifesaver and shareable Jungle Juice buckets, a progressive crowd and a D.J. spinning the hottest tunes, this is a joint that’s hopping even on weekdays. Weekly entertainment includes professional dancers, dollar drink nights, live musical performances, karaoke and bingo. Swing by for one of Splash’s nationally acclaimed drag shows, which attract the likes of VH1 and MTV celebrity entertainers each year. SPLASH BAR FLORIDA, 6520 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach

SCHOONERS

Ask a Panama City Beach native about Schooners, and they’ll likely regale you with stories of canons sounding off at sundown, first kisses in the sand and heated weekend volleyball tournaments. Opened in the late ’60s and renowned as “The Last Local Beach Club,” Schooners is one part seafood restaurant, one part classic hangout, with direct beach access, daily sunset celebrations, local musical performances and year-round special events. An extensive craft beer and signature cocktail menu will warm you up for the dance floor, as Schooners’ rotating lineup of live, local talent is always laying down the tracks to another perfect night by the sea. SCHOONERS, 5121 Gulf Drive, Panama City

MS. NEWBY’S

Originally a drive-through liquor store turned bar, Ms. Newby’s struck gold upon brewing its first batch of Hunch Punch, a fruity, boozy and oh-so-addictive concoction that has for decades been the impetus of many impulsive decisions and fast friendships in Panama City Beach. Ownership has kept Hunch Punch’s recipe hush-hush, preferring you experience the magic itself by bellying up to the original lounge or Newby’s Too, featuring karaoke, dancing and pool; Newby’s End Zone Sports Bar, a game day favorite with over 20 televisions, darts and virtual sports games; and Newby’s Other Bar at the Back Door Lounge, where there’s a little something for everybody. MS. NEWBY’S, 8711 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach

NO NAME LOUNGE

A self-proclaimed “local landmark” since 1980, the No Name Lounge is located just across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City. Laid-back and boasting all the cool you’d expect in a popular gathering spot, No Name Lounge is beloved for its panoramic views of St. Andrew Bay, live band performances and an affable staff who keep the drinks flowin’ and the good times rollin’. The main draw is the expansive Party Deck, which serves as a venue for themed social nights, community-sponsored events and annual holiday bashes. When visiting during Independence Day, this is your go-to spot to celebrate, chat up the regulars and observe as fireworks light up the bay.

NO NAME LOUNGE, 5555 U.S. 98, Panama City

PATCHES PUB & GRILL

With live music seven days a week, costume parties, comedy shows, game day bucket and pitcher specials and annual frozen turkey bowling tournaments, you never know what a night at Patches Pub & Grill will bring, but you can bet on a weird, wild and outrageously fun time. Chow down on classic pub fare from spicy wings and burgers to loaded nachos and made-to-order pizzas, and enjoy daily happy hours from a full liquor bar with over 31 beers on tap. Then, get on your dancing shoes — at 6 o’clock every evening, members of Patches’ eclectic roster of musicians take the stage at the Party Patio and showcase the area’s best and brightest talent. PATCHES PUB & GRILL, 4723 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach