Panama City Beach Weather by Month
Panama City Beach, Florida, has a warm Gulf Coast climate with mild winters, hot and humid summers, and a wetter period from June through September. Temperatures range from cool winter highs around 61–64°F to summer highs around 84–86°F. Rainfall is highest in August, while daylight increases from about 10.5 hours in winter to 14 hours in June and July.
Panama City Beach Weather by Month
You can click the image below to view the full-size weather chart for Panama City Beach.
January – Mild, Cool and Moderately Wet
Average high: 61°F (16°C)
Average low: 48°F (9°C)
Rainfall: 4.41 inches (112 mm)
Water temperature: 63°F
Daylight: 10.5 hours
January is one of the coolest months in Panama City Beach, but winter temperatures remain relatively mild compared with much of the United States. Average daytime temperatures reach around 61°F (16°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to about 48°F (9°C).
The Gulf of Mexico is cool in January, with average water temperatures around 63°F. Swimming is possible, but the water can feel chilly for many visitors.
Rainfall averages about 4.41 inches (112 mm), making January a moderately wet month. With around 10.5 hours of daylight, there is still plenty of time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Best for:
- Quiet beach walks
- Sightseeing without summer crowds
- Fishing
- Mild-weather outdoor activities
February – Mild and Increasingly Comfortable
Average high: 63°F (17°C)
Average low: 52°F (11°C)
Rainfall: 5.45 inches (138.4 mm)
Water temperature: 63°F
Daylight: 11 hours
February brings slightly warmer conditions to Panama City Beach. Average highs reach about 63°F (17°C), while lows are around 52°F (11°C).
Water temperatures remain cool at approximately 63°F, so swimming may not be comfortable for everyone. However, the beach is still pleasant for walking, photography, and relaxing.
Rainfall averages 5.45 inches (138.4 mm), with around 6 rainy days. Daylight increases to about 11 hours, giving visitors more time to explore.
Best for:
- Beach walks
- Fishing
- Quiet getaways
- Exploring local attractions
March – Mild, Sunny and Springlike
Average high: 68°F (20°C)
Average low: 57°F (14°C)
Rainfall: 4.03 inches (102.4 mm)
Water temperature: 65°F
Daylight: 12 hours
March marks a noticeable transition toward spring. Average daytime temperatures rise to around 68°F (20°C), while nighttime temperatures remain comfortable at about 57°F (14°C).
The Gulf water warms slightly to around 65°F, although it can still feel cool for swimming. The increase in daylight to 12 hours makes March a good month for outdoor exploration.
Rainfall decreases to about 4.03 inches (102.4 mm), with approximately 6 rainy days.
Best for:
- Spring sightseeing
- Hiking and outdoor activities
- Beach walks
- Exploring before the summer heat
April – Warm and Pleasant
Average high: 72°F (22°C)
Average low: 63°F (17°C)
Rainfall: 5.71 inches (145.1 mm)
Water temperature: 69°F
Daylight: 13 hours
April brings warmer and more comfortable weather to Panama City Beach. Average highs reach 72°F (22°C), while nighttime temperatures average about 63°F (17°C).
The Gulf water rises to around 69°F, making swimming increasingly appealing, especially on warmer afternoons.
Rainfall averages 5.71 inches (145.1 mm), but there are only about 7 rainy days. With 13 hours of daylight, April provides excellent conditions for spending long days outdoors.
Best for:
- Beach activities
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Spring vacations
May – Warm, Sunny and Beach-Friendly
Average high: 79°F (26°C)
Average low: 70°F (21°C)
Rainfall: 3.83 inches (97.4 mm)
Water temperature: 76°F
Daylight: 13.5 hours
May is one of the most comfortable months for visiting Panama City Beach. Daytime temperatures climb to around 79°F (26°C), while nighttime temperatures stay warm at about 70°F (21°C).
Ocean temperatures reach approximately 76°F, making the Gulf much more inviting for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water activities.
Rainfall is relatively low at 3.83 inches (97.4 mm), with about 5 rainy days. Daylight reaches 13.5 hours, providing plenty of time for beach activities.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Beach vacations
- Water sports
- Long days outdoors
June – Hot, Humid and Very Warm Water
Average high: 84°F (29°C)
Average low: 75°F (24°C)
Rainfall: 7.06 inches (179.3 mm)
Water temperature: 82°F
Daylight: 14 hours
June brings hot summer weather to Panama City Beach. Average highs reach around 84°F (29°C), while nighttime temperatures remain warm at about 75°F (24°C).
The Gulf of Mexico becomes very warm, with water temperatures around 82°F. This is excellent for swimming and spending long periods in the water.
Rainfall increases to approximately 7.06 inches (179.3 mm), with about 9 rainy days. Despite the wetter conditions, June has around 14 hours of daylight, the longest days of the year.
Best for:
- Swimming and beach activities
- Water sports
- Family vacations
- Long summer days
July – Hot, Humid and Very Wet
Average high: 86°F (30°C)
Average low: 79°F (26°C)
Rainfall: 7.83 inches (199 mm)
Water temperature: 85°F
Daylight: 14 hours
July is one of the hottest months in Panama City Beach. Average daytime temperatures reach around 86°F (30°C), while nighttime temperatures remain warm at approximately 79°F (26°C).
Water temperatures rise to around 85°F, creating excellent conditions for swimming and other water activities.
Rainfall averages 7.83 inches (199 mm), with about 12 rainy days. Summer thunderstorms can occur, but they are often short-lived, leaving plenty of opportunities for beach time.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Boating
- Water sports
- Summer beach vacations
August – Hot, Humid and the Wettest Month
Average high: 86°F (30°C)
Average low: 79°F (26°C)
Rainfall: 9.64 inches (244.8 mm)
Water temperature: 85°F
Daylight: 13.5 hours
August is among the hottest months of the year in Panama City Beach. Average highs remain around 86°F (30°C), while lows are close to 79°F (26°C).
The Gulf reaches approximately 85°F, making the water exceptionally warm and comfortable for swimming.
August is also the wettest month in the data you provided, with about 9.64 inches (244.8 mm) of rainfall and around 11 rainy days. Despite the frequent rain, there are still around 13.5 hours of daylight.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Warm-water activities
- Boating
- Tropical-style beach vacations
September – Hot, Warm Water and Frequent Rain
Average high: 84°F (29°C)
Average low: 75°F (24°C)
Rainfall: 7.89 inches (200.4 mm)
Water temperature: 84°F
Daylight: 12.5 hours
September remains hot in Panama City Beach, with average highs around 84°F (29°C) and lows near 75°F (24°C).
The Gulf remains extremely warm, averaging around 84°F, so swimming conditions are excellent.
Rainfall averages 7.89 inches (200.4 mm), with around 8 rainy days. Daylight decreases to about 12.5 hours, but there is still plenty of time for outdoor activities.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Beach vacations
- Water sports
- Warm-weather getaways
October – Warm, Less Humid and More Comfortable
Average high: 84°F (29°C)
Average low: 66°F (19°C)
Rainfall: 3.83 inches (97.2 mm)
Water temperature: 79°F
Daylight: 11.5 hours
October brings a noticeable change in weather. Although average daytime temperatures remain warm at around 84°F (29°C), nighttime temperatures become much cooler at about 66°F (19°C).
The Gulf remains comfortable for swimming, with water temperatures around 79°F.
Rainfall drops significantly to about 3.83 inches (97.2 mm), with only around 4 rainy days. With 11.5 hours of daylight, October offers a good balance of warm temperatures and more comfortable outdoor conditions.
Best for:
- Beach trips
- Swimming
- Sightseeing
- Outdoor activities
November – Mild, Drier and Comfortable
Average high: 70°F (21°C)
Average low: 55°F (13°C)
Rainfall: 3.41 inches (86.5 mm)
Water temperature: 72°F
Daylight: 10.5 hours
November is considerably cooler than the summer months but remains mild compared with many other destinations. Average highs are around 70°F (21°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to about 55°F (13°C).
Water temperatures remain relatively mild at approximately 72°F, although some visitors may find the water cool.
Rainfall averages 3.41 inches (86.5 mm), the lowest monthly total in the data provided. With 10.5 hours of daylight, November is a pleasant month for exploring the area without the intense summer heat.
Best for:
- Quiet beach vacations
- Fishing
- Sightseeing
- Comfortable outdoor activities
December – Mild, Cool and Festive
Average high: 64°F (18°C)
Average low: 52°F (11°C)
Rainfall: 5.14 inches (130.6 mm)
Water temperature: 67°F
Daylight: 10.5 hours
December brings mild winter conditions to Panama City Beach. Average daytime temperatures reach around 64°F (18°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to about 52°F (11°C).
Gulf water temperatures average approximately 67°F, which is cool but still warmer than many winter destinations.
Rainfall averages 5.14 inches (130.6 mm), with around 7 rainy days. Daylight remains at about 10.5 hours, making December a comfortable month for sightseeing and coastal walks.
Best for:
- Winter beach walks
- Holiday getaways
- Fishing
- Exploring without summer crowds
Panama City Beach Weather at a Glance
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Water Temperature | Daylight (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 61°F (16°C) | 48°F (9°C) | 4.41 | 63°F | 10.5 |
| February | 63°F (17°C) | 52°F (11°C) | 5.45 | 63°F | 11 |
| March | 68°F (20°C) | 57°F (14°C) | 4.03 | 65°F | 12 |
| April | 72°F (22°C) | 63°F (17°C) | 5.71 | 69°F | 13 |
| May | 79°F (26°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 3.83 | 76°F | 13.5 |
| June | 84°F (29°C) | 75°F (24°C) | 7.06 | 82°F | 14 |
| July | 86°F (30°C) | 79°F (26°C) | 7.83 | 85°F | 14 |
| August | 86°F (30°C) | 79°F (26°C) | 9.64 | 85°F | 13.5 |
| September | 84°F (29°C) | 75°F (24°C) | 7.89 | 84°F | 12.5 |
| October | 84°F (29°C) | 66°F (19°C) | 3.83 | 79°F | 11.5 |
| November | 70°F (21°C) | 55°F (13°C) | 3.41 | 72°F | 10.5 |
| December | 64°F (18°C) | 52°F (11°C) | 5.14 | 67°F | 10.5 |
Panama City Beach is warmest from June through September, when daytime temperatures generally stay in the mid-80s°F and Gulf water temperatures reach the low-to-mid 80s°F. August is the wettest month in the supplied data, while May, October, and November offer a particularly comfortable combination of warm temperatures and less intense summer conditions.
For swimming, June through October generally offers the warmest water, with average temperatures around 79–85°F.
Panama City Beach Weather FAQs
1. What is the weather like in Panama City Beach year-round?
Panama City Beach has a warm coastal climate with mild winters, hot summers, and relatively warm Gulf waters. Summer is the hottest and wettest period, while winter is cooler and generally more comfortable for outdoor activities.
2. What is the hottest month in Panama City Beach?
July and August are typically the hottest months, with average highs around 86°F (30°C) and average lows around 79°F (26°C).
3. What is the coldest month in Panama City Beach?
January is the coldest month based on the provided data, with an average high of 61°F (16°C) and an average low of 48°F (9°C).
4. Does it snow in Panama City Beach?
Snow is extremely rare in Panama City Beach. Winter temperatures are generally mild, and snowfall is not a normal part of the local climate.
5. What is the best month to visit Panama City Beach for warm weather?
May through October is a good period for warm weather. Temperatures are especially warm from June through September, while May and October can offer more comfortable conditions.
6. What is the rainiest month in Panama City Beach?
August is the wettest month in the provided data, with about 9.64 inches (244.8 mm) of rainfall.
7. What is the driest month in Panama City Beach?
November has the lowest rainfall in the provided data, at approximately 3.41 inches (86.5 mm).
8. How warm is Panama City Beach in January?
January has an average high of 61°F (16°C) and an average low of 48°F (9°C). It is mild compared with many winter destinations but can feel cool in the mornings and evenings.
9. How hot is Panama City Beach in summer?
Summer is hot and humid. Average highs reach about 84°F (29°C) in June, 86°F (30°C) in July and August, and 84°F (29°C) in September.
10. What is the water temperature in Panama City Beach?
Gulf water temperatures range from about 63°F in January and February to around 85°F in July and August. The water is warmest during the summer months.
11. When is the best time to swim in Panama City Beach?
June through October generally offers the warmest swimming conditions. Water temperatures are around 82–85°F during June through September and remain about 79°F in October.
12. Is Panama City Beach warm in April?
Yes. April has an average high of about 72°F (22°C) and an average low of 63°F (17°C). The Gulf water averages around 69°F.
13. Is May a good time to visit Panama City Beach?
Yes. May offers warm temperatures, relatively moderate rainfall, and comfortable Gulf water around 76°F. It is a good month for beaches, swimming, and outdoor activities.
14. Is Panama City Beach rainy in the summer?
Yes. Rainfall increases considerably during summer. June through September are among the wetter months, with August receiving about 9.64 inches of rainfall in the provided data.
15. How many hours of daylight does Panama City Beach get?
Daylight ranges from about 10.5 hours in January, November, and December to around 14 hours in June and July.
16. Is October a good time to visit Panama City Beach?
October can be an excellent time to visit. Average highs are around 84°F (29°C), rainfall drops to about 3.83 inches, and Gulf water temperatures remain warm at approximately 79°F.
17. What is Panama City Beach like in November?
November is mild and relatively dry, with an average high of 70°F (21°C), an average low of 55°F (13°C), and about 3.41 inches of rainfall.
18. Is December warm in Panama City Beach?
December is mild rather than hot. Average highs are around 64°F (18°C), while lows are about 52°F (11°C). The Gulf water averages around 67°F.
19. When is the best time to visit Panama City Beach for fewer crowds and pleasant weather?
Spring and fall can provide a good balance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer period. May and October are particularly appealing because temperatures remain warm while conditions are generally more comfortable.
20. What month has the best weather in Panama City Beach?
May and October are among the best choices for comfortable weather. May is warmer and has very warm water, while October combines warm daytime temperatures with cooler evenings, less rainfall, and comfortable Gulf water.
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