Northwest Florida, also known as the Panhandle, is famous for its sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and family-friendly adventures that keep kids—and adults—smiling all day long. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or just craving a bit of adventure yourself, this stretch of coast has something exciting for everyone!
Splash Into Fun at Big Kahuna’s Water Park in Destin
Big Kahuna’s Water Park is a must-visit for families, with more than 40 thrilling water attractions. From twisting water slides and splash zones to the FlowRider surf simulator and a lazy river for floating and relaxing, every corner of the park is packed with fun.
The park is conveniently located near Destin’s famous beaches, including Henderson Beach State Park, Miramar Beach, and Destin Harbor, plus the lively HarborWalk Village—perfect for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Destin also offers Crab Island excursions, making it easy to pair beach time with waterpark thrills.
Waterpark Adventures at Shipwreck Island Water Park in Panama City Beach
Just a short drive down US-98, Shipwreck Island Water Park in Panama City Beach offers 15 acres of water-filled adventure for families looking to cool off and make memories. Known for its pirate-themed attractions, the park brings swashbuckling fun to life with themed decor, interactive play areas, and the Great Shipwreck zipline, which drops you straight into the pool. Families can drift along the lazy river for a relaxing float or dive into the 500,000-gallon wave pool and splash around together.
The park’s location near Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park, and the scenic 30A corridor makes it easy to combine water park fun with some of the area’s most famous beaches and attractions, including Pier Park and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.
Relax & Recharge
Both parks are fully equipped for a stress-free day with cabana rentals, ample seating, certified lifeguards, complimentary life vests, and a variety of food and beverage options to keep everyone fueled for more fun.
Tips for a Smooth Panhandle Adventure
- Plan for frequent breaks: Kids (and adults!) need time to stretch, snack, and explore.
- Mix entertainment types: Water parks, mini-golf, beaches, marine life—there’s something for everyone!
- Highway highlights: US-98 is your scenic route along the coast.
- Family-friendly stops from nearby states: Perfect for a long weekend or extended road trip from Georgia, Alabama, and beyond.
Make the Road Trip Part of the Adventure
With attractions like Big Kahuna’s Destin and Shipwreck Island in Panama City Beach, your Florida Panhandle road trip becomes just as exciting as the destination. Splash, slide, float, and explore—making memories that will last long after the sun sets!
Pro Tip: Plan ahead and discover even more family-friendly adventures:
- Visit Destin & Fort Walton Beach: destinfwb.com
- Visit Panama City Beach & 30A: visitpanamacitybeach.com
