FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BEFORE YOU BOOK
WHAT FEES ARE INCLUDED WHEN I MAKE MY RESERVATION?
Each reservation includes the nightly rental rate, cleaning fee, reservation fee, and Florida state and local taxes.
Some resorts require additional fees for parking passes and/or wristbands. These fees are disclosed on applicable listings and will be collected after booking.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
- At booking: 20% down payment plus trip insurance, if selected.
- Remaining balance: Due 30 days prior to arrival.
- If booking within 30 days of arrival: Full payment is due at the time of booking.
ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS
We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express. E-checks are accepted for reservations made at least 15 days before check-in. A 3.5% convenience fee applies to credit card payments.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
- 30 days or more prior to arrival: Down payment is non-refundable.
- Within 30 days of arrival: All money paid, including the down payment, is non-refundable.
- Trip insurance may reimburse you if the policy covers the cancellation reason. Contact Rental Guardian at 888-885-5550 for questions.
No refunds are issued for early departures or weather-related issues, including hurricanes or mandatory evacuations.
DO YOU HAVE A LOYALTY OR REWARDS PROGRAM?
Yes. Panhandle Getaways is partnered with Marriott Bonvoy, and you may use Bonvoy points toward your stay!
WHY BOOK WITH PANHANDLE GETAWAYS?
With more than 30 years in business and over 250,000 happy guests, we are the most trusted name in Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach, The Forgotten Coast, 30A, and Destin vacations. More than 80% of our guests return every year, and we maintain a 4.7-star average rating from over 2,000 Google reviews. Our local team is on call 24/7 from the moment you start planning until you head home.
WHY BOOK A VACATION HOME OR CONDO INSTEAD OF A HOTEL?
Vacation rentals provide more space, privacy, and convenience. Enjoy full kitchens, private bedrooms, and resort-style amenities such as pools, gyms, and tennis courts.
AFTER YOU BOOK (PRE-ARRIVAL)
HOW AND WHEN WILL I RECEIVE CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS?
- Ensure that we have your correct email address and a textable phone number.
- You will receive a confirmation email and Guest Portal login immediately after booking.
- Seven days before arrival you will receive your check-in instructions containing your door code or lockbox information, Wi-Fi login, parking details, and property notes.
- If you booked within seven days of arrival, instructions will be sent shortly after booking.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL UNIT AND WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Your rental unit includes linens, bath towels, a coffee maker, an iron, a toaster, a blender, and basic kitchen essentials.
Starter supplies include:
- Dishwasher detergent
- Small laundry detergent packet
- Bathroom amenities: shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, body wash
- One roll of toilet paper per bathroom
- One roll of paper towels
Starter supplies are not replenished during your stay. You will need additional groceries, household supplies, and personal items.
IS THERE WIFI?
Most units provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. Your network information will be included in the check-in email. Wi-Fi quality may vary, and service is not guaranteed.
ARE THERE SURVEILLANCE DEVICES?
Some homes have exterior security devices at doors or driveways. If present, this is disclosed in the property listing. There are no interior cameras.
ARE PETS ALLOWED?
Selected rental units allow dogs only.
Pet fees:
- One dog: $27.50 per night
- Two dogs: $45.00 per night
Maximum of two dogs unless pre-approved.
Undeclared pets result in eviction, forfeiture of rent, and a $500 cleaning fee. Pet fees do not cover damages. Dogs only.
Service Animals must remain with the owner at all times and may not be left alone.
ARRIVAL AND CHECK-IN
WHAT ARE CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT TIMES?
Check-in is at 4:00 PM Central Standard Time. In some cases, additional maintenance or housekeeping needs may delay check-in until 6:00 PM. Early Check-in may be available for an additional fee.
Check-out is at 10:00 AM Central Standard Time. Late check-out may be available for an additional fee.
HOW DO I GET KEYS?
Most properties use electronic locks or lockboxes. Door codes activate at 4:00 PM on arrival day. Summerhouse and Emerald Towers use alternate key systems. Instructions are included in your check-in materials.
DURING YOUR STAY
WHO DO I CONTACT IF I NEED HELP?
Text or call 850-588-8125 for assistance with any questions or maintenance needs, 24/7.
DEPARTURE
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO WHEN CHECKING OUT?
Please complete the following before departure:
- Remove all trash from the unit.
- Place used towels and linens on the bathroom floor.
- Remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer.
- Leave wristbands, parking passes, and amenity keys on the kitchen counter if applicable.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Email reservations@panhandlegetaways.com or call or text 850-588-8125, 24/7.
LOCAL INFORMATION
For Gulf conditions and flag updates, text "SAFETY" to 31279
IS THERE OVERFLOW PARKING IN PANAMA CITY BEACH?
Yes. Public parking lots are located at 9941 Thomas Drive, 600 Henley Drive, and 11117 Front Beach Road. Rates are $2 per hour, up to 6 hours, or $12 per day. The weekly rate is $84. For information, call Panama City Beach Public Works at 850-233-5100 ext. 2416.
WHERE ARE THE 30A AND PROMINENCE BEACH ACCESS POINTS?
Gulf Lakes Beach Access
Approximately one mile east of Prominence. Small access. No parking.
Deer Lake State Park
Half a mile west of Prominence. Bathrooms are available. Parking is approximately $3. Longer walk to the beach. No alcohol or beach service.
Santa Clara Regional Access
About 3.5 miles west. Parking, bathrooms, lifeguards, and ADA access.
Walton Dunes
Approximately 2.5 miles west. Roadside parking. No amenities.
Inlet Beach Regional Access
Located at 438 South Orange Street. Parking, restrooms, lifeguards, and ADA ramps.