Panama City Beach sits on Florida's northwest Gulf coast, and it delivers exactly the postcard you're expecting: sugary white sand, turquoise water and a laid-back pace. But the town has more going on than sunbathing, and a recent round-up from Destinationless Travel makes a solid case for filling your days with everything from dolphin swims to 360-degree boat spins.

The standout experience according to the writers is a catamaran cruise to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island that's part of St. Andrews State Park. The trip includes access to an inflatable water park with trampolines, slides and a floating seesaw, plus free use of kayaks, paddleboards and snorkel gear — no add-on fees. On the return leg, the boat heads into the Gulf to look for dolphins, and the authors spotted a pod jumping alongside the hull. Another favourite: a sunset sail on the Privateer catamaran through St. Andrews Bay, with a first drink included and a bar serving the signature Privateer Punch. Useful detail there — the bay is usually calmer than the open Gulf, so a red flag on the beach doesn't mean your cruise is cancelled.

If you'd rather get up close to marine life, a two-hour dolphin tour caps at six passengers, leaves from Papa Joe's off Highway 98, and includes a snorkelling stop near Shell Island with all equipment provided. Wild dolphin swims aren't guaranteed, but stingrays and manatees also make appearances. Adrenaline seekers have the Scream Machine jet boat, which throws in nose dives and full spins — expect to get soaked, and riders need to be at least 38 inches tall. There's even a beginner scuba experience at St. Andrews State Park that requires no certification or prior swimming skills, though you'll complete a health questionnaire and should wait 12 hours before flying.

Away from the water, St. Andrews State Park offers hiking trails around Heron Pond and Gator Lake, bike rentals from the Camp Store, and camping if you want to stay overnight. Pier Park is the town's shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, plenty of restaurants, and the PCB Wheel Ferris wheel. On the practical side, the authors recommend renting a car, booking popular tours ahead in summer, and always checking beach warning flags — rip currents are a real hazard even on calm-looking days.

For a three-day visit, the suggested rhythm is: state park and a sunset cruise on day one, beach time and Shell Island on day two, then dolphins and a tiki boat through Lower Grand Lagoon on day three, with waterfront dinners at Schooners and The Grand Marlin along the way.

This one's for families and groups who want more from a beach holiday than a towel and a lounger — think water parks, wildlife and a bit of speed, all within a compact stretch of coast.