sunshine_please

My husband and I (mid-30s) would like to take a beach vacation. We are equidistance from both South Padre Island and Panama City Beach. Which one to choose? Or perhaps you know of another option.

We don't party. We're looking to relax, do some fishing, enjoy a beautiful beach and ocean, and eat some good food. That about sums it up!

Advice, pros/cons, etc. would be appreciated.

Thanks!

doug_stallings

If you are going for Spring Break, that's very hard. I think both are big spring break party spots. I'd actually recommend the Sandestin Resort. It's private and doesn't allow such raucous parties. There's also a boutique-style hotel there, though it isn't on the Gulf side.

sunshine_please

In which city is the Sandestin Resort?

No, not going for spring break - wouldn't dream of it! Likely in late April or early May.

sunshine_please

I'm really looking for help in determining which place we should visit - SPI or Panama City (or other cities recommended as an alternative.) I'm not looking for specific lodging recommendations at this time.

doug_stallings

If you're going after late April, then I don't know that it matters. I'd probably choose Panama City. I like that it's book-ended by two undeveloped state parks but still offers such a wide variety of on-the-beach lodging. But I suspect you'll find fans of both here.

ChristieP

If you are looking for sugar-white sand and turquoise blue water, you won't find it in South Padre. It is the best of the Texas beaches, but it still doesn't hold a candle to Florida!

AustinTraveler

Forget Texas beaches and head to the Panhandle of Florida. Personally, I would not choose Panama City Beach. But, for the laid-back vacation you are looking for, I would look into Grayton Beach (just east of Destin), Navarre Beach, or Pensacola Beach.

sunshine_please

Thank you! I appreciate your feedback.

gracie

I actually live a few miles from Panama City Beach. I think it would be a great location to visit in late April to mid May. Accomodations are a good bit more expensive in Destin, Seaside, or any other the other beaches in Walton County. Those are more upscale areas, and thus cost more. PCB is not the classiest place, but the sand and water are beautiful, and there are plenty of condos for rent. Also, prices drop here after Easter weekend and pick back up the weekend before Memorial Day. Also, there is a Triathlon on Panama City Beach on Saturday, May 10, so rooms at that time may be scarce and travel will be impeded that day. Resturants will also be very busy that weekend.