What is a snowbird? Snowbirds are people who leave the cold north (where they live) to stay a while in a warmer climate during the winter months. Florida’s winter weather is the perfect spot for these snowbirds who make an annual trek down south for fun in the sun and no snow! The state of Florida’s population grows by around a million people each year due to this influx of winter residents. This is comparable to a five percent growth in population!
Most snowbirds come for 30 days or more, giving them ample time to soak in all the scenery and activities on the coast. Typically snowbirds are retirees, but since 2020, remote workers have brought the average age down slightly. Winter residents come to experience Panama City Beach, 30A, and Destin and to take advantage of very affordable accommodations priced for monthly renters. Many restaurants, events and other activities have snowbird specials throughout the winter season.
Winter Weather in Florida’s Panhandle
Many wonder about the weather in Panama City Beach and other coastal towns. Winter months on the Emerald Coast are a favorite for snowbirds because there is beautiful weather and plenty of warm rays in the Sunshine State. November through February are great times to escape the freezing temperatures and bask in the warmer Florida temperatures.
During the winter, average temperatures in December range from a high of 65 degrees to a low of 44 degrees, January is the coolest month and averages a high of 63 degrees and a low of 42 degrees. February averages a high of 66 degrees to a low of 46 degrees. Mid-March begins Spring Break season and most snowbirds have returned home by this time.
Winter Resident Appreciation Days
Panama City Beach celebrates winter residents with Winter Resident Appreciation Days. Each season, Visit Panama City Beach treats snowbirds to special days with complimentary coffee, donuts, and giveaways. There is a Homecoming Dance & Social, Winter Resident Senior Prom, and Winter Resident Grand Finale. There is also a Mystery Golf Challenge. For more information, dates, and times, check Visit Panama City Beach.
Join the PCB Senior Center
Panama City Beach has an active senior center with plenty of activities and friendly people to meet. Some activities include woodworking, ukulele, pickleball, line dance, exercises, and crafting. You can even take a trip to Biloxi or discover an entire list of activities. The senior center is located at 423 Lyndell Lane, Panama City Beach, and an annual membership is $50. To learn more call (850) 233-5065 or visit their website.
Resort Amenities for Snowbirds
Another great benefit of enjoying the winter on the Emerald Coast is having the amenities practically to yourself. Most beachfront resorts in PCB, such as Calypso Beach Resort, have heated pools, while others have hot tubs, firepits, game rooms, and fitness centers that can be utilized year-round. Several resorts also offer fun snowbird activities during your stay.
Golfing, State Parks, and Nature’s Beauty on Display During the Winter
Panama City Beach has an abundance of beautiful golf courses, so playing golf in the winter is highly recommended here. There are a variety of golf courses open year-round to perfect your game with stunning waterfront views. You are sure to have a remarkable golfing experience at one of the Best Golf Courses in the Florida Panhandle.
The Panhandle has some beautiful untouched state parks that make for a fun winter sabbatical. Bird watching, shelling, boat excursions are just a few of the things you can still enjoy in the cooler months. The winter gives you a great chance to explore nature in its natural habitat and see pristine views of the Gulf of Mexico, coastal dune lakes, bays, and lush landscapes.
St. Andrews State Park is a Panama City Beach local and visitor favorite spot to explore. Camp Helen is a great place to enjoy Lake Powell or take a hike through the sandy paths that lead to the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Grayton Beach State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, and Deer Lake State Park are great parks on 30A. Beautiful blooming ornamental gardens are the main attraction for many of the winter months at Eden Gardens State Park.
Fishing is fabulous on the Emerald Coast during the winter months, too. The county and city piers are open year-round for fishing along with shore fishing opportunities. Captain Anderson’s Marina offers deep-sea fishing charters in Panama City Beach. Destin is a great spot for fishing as well as it is dubbed the World's Luckiest Fishing Village.
Snowbirds can take a dance class and find a bingo game, too.
Come to the Emerald Coast’s biggest and best all-wooden dance floor at the Grand Square Hall in Panama City. Learn dances such as line dancing, the cha-cha, West Coast swing, and square dance. This is a great time to learn a new dance or try your skills in a safe family-friendly environment with classes ranging from $5-$15.
Several restaurants such as Neon’s, Beef O’ Brady's, and Sharkys offer Bingo during the winter. There are also several Bingo Halls in the area such as Bingo Paradise, Bayside Bingo, and Lucky’s Bingo. You can check the senior center for local bingo events.
Come Spend Snowbird Season with Us
Winter is a fabulous time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and sunny weather on the Emerald Coast. With so many fun activities and specials for snowbirds, you may want to spend the entire winter here.
Our snowbird visitors come from all across the U.S. and Canada for their temporary winter home and almost all return year after year. Most of the resorts and private houses in Panama City Beach have monthly rates for snowbirds, and there are plenty of options on 30A and in Destin for winter residents. Book your monthly vacation rental with us at Panhandle Getaways.