Panama City Lakes

Lakes Close to Panama City

Every once in a while you should gather your family and friends and make time to be near the water. A lake getaway is amazing for those that enjoy the outdoors too, because they offer opportunities to see birds, fish, turtles and other animals in their natural habitat.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to float in a tube with a book, get active with water skiing, go swimming, or just lounge at the beach, the lakes near Panama City offer you lots of options for outdoor adventures. Don’t you deserve an enjoyable getaway? Pack up your vehicle with your fishing gear and snacks then hit the road your next day off to find a brand new favorite location on the water!

Lakes Close to Panama City

Things to Do at the Lake

A day trip to the lake, or a more lengthy trip provides an almost endless amount of stuff for families, couples, or even those seeking some quality alone time.

Now we’ll run down a list of some of the best things to do when you arrive at a lake near Panama City:

Start paddling. If you like to paddle around, strap your favorite kayak or paddleboard to the top of your vehicle and find yourself a lake with a public launch and get out and enjoy the scenery in all it’s glory.

Partake in some delicious delights outside. The lakes near Panama City provide a wealth of great picnic areas for you to pack up some culinary delights, or just a couple of sandwiches to enjoy by the water. For a romantic evening, this plan should be suitably romantic.

Go fishing. For anglers, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or standing on a dock with a beer in one hand and a rod in the other.

Lake Checklist

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique depending on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, what your goals are for the getaway. While every trip is its own animal, we took the time to make a list that will give some ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!

General items

If you’re going to be on, in, or near the water for most of the vacation, the list below should be a good place to start when it comes to the necessities to have on hand.

  • Sunglasses
  • Beach blanket
  • A receptacle for trash
  • UV protection
  • Insect repellant
  • Travel dinnerware and cups
  • Bathing suits
  • Portable phone charger
  • Bottle opener
  • A cooler and drinks

Additional lake stuff

Depending on your planned activities at the lake and your guests, the items below might also prove useful and worth a quick spot check prior to departure.

  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Safety gear like life jackets
  • Diapers and baby gear
  • Corkscrew
  • Tackle box and lures
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Inflatable pool toys
  • Your favorite magazine or book
  • Bait
  • Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes

Lake Safety Tips

While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, failing to follow some simple safety rules can make things turn tragic in a hurry. Following a few standard safety tips that should make sure that your whole group remains safe at your favorite Panama City lake.

  • Always wear sunblock
  • Keep your distance from wildlife
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat

More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Panama City

Some people may not get a chance to make their way to the lakes near Panama City and likely have a few questions regarding planning. Clearly, every lake is going to possess their own character and trappings, but it’s worth noting a handful of items to look into when planning which could help start your trip on the right foot.

  1. Make the most of unique local resources. When there’s time for a longer trip, look for local state campgrounds and parks which give you the option to stay directly on the water without breaking the bank.
  2. Rent a boat. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas where you can rent a boat. Just because you don’t own a boat to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or tubing with the kids. Asking a local will typically help you find a marina that has what you need.
  3. Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes the beaches near Panama City could be extremely busy. If you want a little more privacy, research multiple lakes in the area to learn about how busy they are to find one with a slower pace. If you want to be where the party’s at, search out the biggest, most happening sandy party scene!