With an average of 320 days of Florida sunshine each year – and 27 miles of sugar-white sands bordering the clear, emerald green waters where the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay converge – Panama City Beach is a favourite of travellers seeking an affordable beach holiday with year round offerings. The region also features exciting on- and off-shore attractions, including St. Andrews Park and Pier Park, that offer something special to adrenaline-seekers, eco-tourists, families and couples alike.

Panama City is a four-season paradise for water-sports enthusiasts. Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and kiteboarding are popular activities on the crystal blue waters of St. Andrews Bay. Numerous charters offer inshore and offshore fishing, scuba and snorkeling excursions. Guided day trips are available for dolphin-watching or you can go shelling on uninhabited Shell Island. Enjoy water views and fresh, locally caught seafood at popular restaurants like Gene's Oyster Bar, a local landmark.

If you're looking for some great Florida beaches but aren't necessarily interested in a mega-resort or theme park atmosphere, Pensacola might just be the place for your perfect weekend. Home to Gulf Islands National Seashore, the city offers some of the best fishing and boating in the area. Inland, canoeing enthusiasts won't want to miss the beauty of the Blackwater River. Closer to town, the city has a proud military heritage, which can be seen at attractions like the National Museum of Naval Aviation and the Pensacola Naval Air Station.

A great family beach holiday spot, Orange Beach, Alabama, offers offer wonderful dining experiences, dolphin-sighting cruises, championship golf courses, fishing charters and nature hikes. Choose from national hotel and motel chains, camping or a variety of beach houses for your stay. There are numerous options for nightlife, from family entertainment to rocking roadhouses, enjoy your pick of plays, free concerts, dancing or just listening to any number of musical stylings at a local hot spot.

Port Saint Joe is located in Gulf County, Florida. Its sheltered bay, along with farms in Apalachicola, just to the south, provide a significant percentage of oysters and scallops for local and national consumers. Also a big fishing town known, Port Saint Joe has many charter companies that provide access to some of the best off-shore fishing in the Gulf. Famous for its speckled trout, redfish and tarpon, Port Saint Joe offers the perfect fishing expedition.

Whether you are looking to explore nature, relax on the beach, or take a boat out on its clear waters, Bonita Springs is an unforgettable destination with a little something for everyone. Enjoy the wildlife and views of Barefoot Beach Preserve or rent a boat to take out on the water at Bay Water Boat Hire. Bonita Springs Public Beach is a great place to go swimming or relax and unwind, and you can even bring Fido to the town's very own Dog Beach.