Anytime is a great time to enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico in Panama City Beach, Florida. This coastal city has an subtropical, temperate climate that lasts, basically, all year. Panama City Beach's favorable climate includes about 320 days of sunshine with comfortable temperatures throughout each season. The area's moist climate and gulf breeze keep things mild in the winter and ensures the tropical landscape thrives through every season.
Panama City Beach has a subtropical climate, meaning the summers are long and hot and the winters are short and mild. The average temperatures in Panama City Beach range from 75 to 91 degrees in the summer and 66 to 44 degrees in the winter. The warm temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico tend to make the winter air fairly pleasant, but the breezes keep the air circulating and actually keep the temperature down in the summer.
Winter Temperatures in Panama City Beach
The winter is the coolest time in Panama City Beach with December through February being the coolest months; January specifically is the coldest. We often get questions asking "what is the weather like in February in PCB?" The weather is still beautiful with plenty of sunshine and fewer crowds. You will find the cooler weather also creates a peaceful stay and less expensive accommodations.
Winters in Panama City Beach are a favorite for snowbirds, visitors from much colder climates who like to get away from their own frigid temperatures and spend a few weeks in the warmer temperatures of the Panhandle. This is also a great time to enjoy the holidays directly on the beach with stress-free holiday shopping. A light jacket and pants are suitable for enjoying the weather in PCB.
During the winter, average temperatures in December range from a high of 66 degrees to a low of 44 degrees, January averages a high of 63 degrees and a low of 42 degrees, and February averages a high of 66 degrees to a low of 46 degrees. The average rainfall is 5 days a month.
Spring Temperatures in PCB
Spring means the weather is warm but not too hot yet. It is a great time to sunbathe, play volleyball on the beach and swim. During the day summer clothing works well and evenings may require a light jacket. Mid-March through early April brings the Spring Break crowds, although it isn’t a huge party town like the days of old. Mostly, you’ll see families and teenagers enjoying their spring vacations because the weather during Spring Break is comfortable and inviting.
Temperatures in March range from 72 degrees to a low of 51 degrees and April ranges from a high of 78 degrees and low of 57 degrees. May is the warmest spring month with highs averaging 84 degrees and lows at 65 degrees. Rainfall in the spring averages 4 days per month.
Summer Brings the Warmest Temperatures to PCB
Summer is peak season in Panama City Beach and a great time for family vacations. There is plenty of warm sunshine, so be sure to pack your sunscreen. You’ll want to bring your swimsuit and beach gear as this is the best time for swimming and enjoying water activities. Summer clothes can be worn during the day and most evenings.
The warm summer temperature of June averages from a high of 89 degrees and a low of 73 degrees. July and August range from a high of 90 degrees to a low of 75 degrees. June and July average more rain than the other months, which makes for a nice afternoon shower to cool things off with roughly 9 days of average rainfall. In Florida due to the humidity, quick rain showers are the norm with bursts of rain moving through quickly and then the sun begins to shine again. Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year in Florida.
Fall is the locals favorite season for weather and more
Autumn in Panama City Beach means an extended summer season that keeps fall warm and enjoyable, some even call fall in PCB a second spring. The weather is still warm and enjoyable with far fewer crowds. Fall is the most popular time for beach weddings and even grandparents with younger grandkids enjoy this time of year at the beach.
Temperatures in September average from a high of 88 degrees to a low of 71 degrees. In October temperatures range from 81 degrees to 60 degrees. November is the coolest fall month with temperatures ranging from a high of 73 degrees to a low of 51 degrees and rainfall averaging 5 days per month.
What are the best months to visit Panama City Beach?
As the weather is pretty wonderful year-round, it’s your choice when the best season is! May through October are the warmest times to visit, as late spring and early fall provide warmer air and water temperatures. If you prefer the hot weather for swimming, the summer peak season may be best for you. On the other hand, if you prefer to enjoy the beach without the crowds and with a cooler breeze or two, winter is an optimal choice.
When is the water warm enough to swim in Panama City Beach?
It is typically warm enough to swim from March through November. If you enjoy swimming in warmer waters, the gulf water temperature peaks in the summer. However, the waters are cool and comfortable for most in the spring and fall. June through October are ideal for swimming. April, May, and November offer pleasant swimming temperatures.
Does PCB have Sweater Weather?
A common question locals get asked is if PCB has what’s known as sweater weather. The answer is, yes! Sweater weather does hit the Panhandle, though it depends on the time of year and day. Some fall, spring, and winter evenings a sweater is a comfortable option. A sweater is still a great idea for some winter days in January and February, even as mild as the winters are. However, you probably won't need to pack a heavy coat like you would in New England or the Midwest.
The best season to enjoy Panama City Beach is any season at all!
The sunny, temperate, and beautiful weather in Panama City Beach lasts all year long. So, whatever time you decide to come visit is the perfect time to enjoy the beach. You can kick off your spring break on the beach with warmer weather, plan your family vacation with a swim in the gulf during the summer, enjoy the warmer weather in the fall, or experience stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and crisp, cool air in the winter.
Panhandle Getaways offers vacation rentals year round and also has some great monthly winter rates for all those snowbirds looking to escape their frozen climates. Book your stay with us, and we’ll look for you in your favorite season to visit Panama City Beach.