Discover Panama City Beach's best seafood markets: where to buy, prep, or ship your catch, pick up fresh Gulf favorites, and enjoy local flavors from your vacation rental
From the Carolinas to the Gulf Coast, there's no shortage of great seafood, but in Panama City Beach, it's more than a dish; it's a way of life. If you'd rather skip the restaurant and enjoy seafood on your terms, this guide is for you.
Here's the lowdown on what we're covering:
- Popular Seafood Markets in Panama City Beach
- Preparing the Fish You Catch
- Buying Fresh Seafood
- Picking Up Ready-to-Eat Dishes
- Stocking Up Before You Fish
- Cooking at Your Vacation Rental
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog. From local hidden gems to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'm bringing you everything you need to know about PCB's local seafood markets: where to go, what to buy, and how to make the most of your kitchen while you're here.
Get ready for a seafood bonanza!
1. Popular Seafood Markets in PCB
1.1 ANDERSONS SEAFOOD MARKET
Fresh shrimp, friendly service, and no-frills charm.
A friendly, locally favorite market known for its fresh shrimp and personable service, Anderson Seafood Market provides a straightforward, no-frills experience perfect for picking up the day's catch.
Best for:
- Quick pick-ups
- Casual cooking at home
- Reliable staples
1.2 BUDDY'S SEAFOOD
High-quality seafood and efficient takeout service.
Renowned among locals and visitors for its high-quality seafood and efficient takeout service, Buddy's stands out with a stellar reputation for both freshness and reliability.
Best for:
- Fresh fillets
- Fast service
- Vacation meals on the go
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1.3 LOCAL STEAMER SEAFOOD MARKET
Steamed seafood platters and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
This popular, casual spot specializes in steamed seafood platters and sides, offering both market-fresh shellfish and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with extras like curbside pickup and outdoor seating.
Best for:
- Ready-to-eat seafood
- Group dinners
- Curbside convenience
1.4 SANDBAR SEAFOOD AND DELI
Oysters, shrimp, beer, and live music.
Famed for serving oysters right out of the shell and just-caught shrimp, this no-nonsense eatery is also a favorite for those who appreciate a fun and casual environment with great beer and frequent live music.
Best for:
- Social bites
- Fresh oysters
- Casual evening hangouts
1.5 SHRIMP CITY SEAFOOD MARKET
Exceptionally fresh seafood and personalized service.
A small business celebrated for its exceptionally fresh selection and personalized service, Shrimp City attracts regulars with its accessible location and community-focused approach.
Best for:
- Tailored recommendations
- Small-batch quality
- Local favorites
1.6 TREASURE ISLAND SEAFOOD MARKET
Marina-side market with variety and convenience.
Located at a bustling marina, Treasure Island Seafood Market offers a diverse selection of seafood with the added convenience of being right by the water, making it a great stop for boaters and seafood lovers alike.
Best for:
- Boaters
- Variety seekers
- Seafood lovers passing through
2. Preparing the Fish You Catch
If you spend the day deep-sea fishing or casting off the pier, don't let your fresh catch go to waste. Local seafood markets in Panama City Beach offer cleaning and preparation services, and many can even cook your fish for you.
Want to save it for later? They can vacuum seal your filets to keep them fresh for up to three months, or ship them home packed in dry ice. You can also choose to take your catch back on ice to enjoy at your vacation rental.
Key takeaways
- Most seafood markets in Panama City Beach will clean, cook, or vacuum-seal your catch.
- You can have it packed on ice or shipped home.
- It's a great way to enjoy your day's effort without the hassle.
3. Buying Fresh Seafood
If you're not into fishing, no problem. The markets carry a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish like scamp, snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, shrimp, Apalachicola oysters, and crab legs. You'll also find seasonings, marinades, and expert advice on how to prepare your seafood at home.
Key takeaways
- A wide selection of fresh fish and shellfish is always available.
- You'll also find seasonings and expert cooking tips.
- Ideal for foodies who want to bring the taste of the Gulf to their rental kitchen.
4. Picking Up Ready-to-Eat Dishes
Not in the mood to cook? Many seafood markets sell prepared items like smoked tuna dip, steamed shrimp, seafood gumbo, and seasoned sides such as potatoes and corn. Look for house-made cocktail sauces and even local desserts to round out your meal.
Key takeaways
- No need to cook; grab house-made dips, steamed shrimp, gumbo, and more.
- Great for casual nights in or beachside snacking.
- Many markets also offer sauces and desserts.
5. Stocking Up Before You Fish
Planning a fishing trip? These markets often stock the essentials: bait, tackle, ice, and coolers, everything you need to make your outing a success.
Key takeaways
- Markets offer bait, tackle, ice, and coolers for anglers.
- A convenient one-stop shop before your day on the water.
- Smart prep leads to smoother outings and better results.
The Kitchen at Pelican South Side, a great vacation rental in PCB.
6. Cooking at Your Vacation Rental
One of the best perks of staying in a vacation rental is having a full kitchen at your disposal. After visiting a seafood market, there's something special about preparing a meal together using fresh, local ingredients.
If you're grilling on the patio or searing fish on the stovetop, having your own kitchen lets you turn fresh catches into memorable meals. It's a great way to unwind, eat well, and enjoy the comforts of home while you're away.
Key takeaways
- A full kitchen gives you the freedom to enjoy local seafood your way.
- Perfect for families, foodies, or anyone who loves a home-cooked meal on vacation.
- Cooking together can turn your catch into a memorable part of your trip.
7. FAQ: Panama City Beach Seafood Markets
7.1 Can I bring my own fish to a seafood market to be cleaned?
Yes! Many seafood markets in Panama City Beach offer fish-cleaning services. They'll clean and filet your catch, and in most cases, vacuum-seal it so you can store it for later or take it home with you. Some also offer dry ice shipping.
7.2 Will seafood markets cook the fish I caught?
Absolutely. Select markets will prepare your freshly caught fish for you—steamed, grilled, blackened, or fried. It's an easy way to enjoy your catch without cooking it yourself. Just ask what options are available when you arrive.
7.3 Do markets offer seafood for people who don't fish?
They sure do. Even if you don't plan to catch your own, you can still enjoy a wide selection of fresh fish, shrimp, oysters, and crab legs. Many markets also offer prepared items like gumbo, dips, and steam pots.
7.4 What should I bring before a fishing trip?
Stop by a local seafood market before you go—they often sell bait, tackle, coolers, and ice. Some even offer advice on what's biting and where. It's a convenient stop whether you're heading out on a charter or casting from the pier.
7.5 Why choose a vacation rental with a kitchen?
Having a full kitchen makes a huge difference, especially in a seafood-rich destination like Panama City Beach. You can cook what you catch, save money on dining out, and enjoy slow evenings with fresh Gulf flavors; all from the comfort of your rental.
Emerald Coast: A Beachfront Haven Like No Other
With so much to explore, and endless natural beauty to experience the best Florida has to offer, the Emerald Coast will definitely fulfill your craving for a fun-filled vacation.
At RealJoy Vacations, we go the extra mile to make your Emerald Coast getaway truly extraordinary. Your accommodation should match the beauty and magic of this Florida treasure, and our goal is to provide a 5-star coastal living experience during your stay.