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Upper Grand Lagoon

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City
—°1
Upper Grand Lagoon (United States)
ℹ️

Practical info — Upper Grand Lagoon

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Use back roads instead of Thomas Drive during peak summer times to avoid heavy traffic bottlenecks.
  • Book a shuttle or pontoon boat to Shell Island early to guarantee your spot.
  • Remember to pack everything you need for Shell Island, as there are no facilities or concession stands there.
  • Explore the marinas in the late afternoon to see the charter boats bring in their daily fresh catches.

🍽 Food

🍽
Blackened Grouper Sandwich

Waterfront restaurants perched directly over the lagoon waters.

🍽
Raw Gulf Oysters

Popular oyster bars along Thomas Drive.

🍽
Key Lime Pie

Casual seafood shacks near the state park entrance.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Beach Gear & Swimwear

Large surf shops lining the main roads.

🛍
Fishing Tackle & Bait

Marina shops outfitting local anglers.

🧘
Shell Island

A pristine, undeveloped barrier island accessible only by watercraft.

🧘
St. Andrews State Park Bayside

Calmer waters and quiet pine forests away from the Gulf surf.

Upper Grand Lagoon is positioned at the eastern end of Panama City Beach and serves as the epicenter for nautical adventures on Florida's Emerald Coast. The area is defined by the expansive lagoon, which hosts world-class marinas and some of the largest fishing fleets in the state. It is a haven for anglers and boaters looking to explore the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Delwood Beach features a more tranquil alternative to the bustling main strip, featuring the region's signature sugar-white sand. Nearby, My Blue Beach House marks a popular spot for coastal relaxation and enjoying the Florida sun. The adjacent St. Andrews State Park is a major draw, offering a diverse landscape of dunes, salt marshes, and jetties that provide some of the best snorkeling and shore fishing in the Florida Panhandle. Dining in Upper Grand Lagoon is a standout experience, with many waterfront restaurants serving fresh 'Gulf-to-Table' seafood as boats cruise by. For a truly wild experience, visitors can take a shuttle to Shell Island, a seven-mile stretch of undeveloped beach and dunes. Whether you're seeking a high-energy fishing excursion or a quiet day by the lagoon, this destination gives the best of the Emerald Coast's maritime lifestyle.

Geography

Population
13,963 (2011)
Coordinates
30.16090, -85.74421

Facts

  • Epicenter for sport fishing
  • Gateway to St. Andrews State Park
  • Quiet Delwood Beach area
  • Shuttle access to Shell Island
  • Large commercial & private marinas
  • Premier waterfront dining
  • Great snorkeling by the jetties
  • Diverse coastal ecosystems

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Upper Grand Lagoon (1)

Sea Screamer📍 landmark

An attraction in Upper Grand Lagoon known for boat tours and dolphin sightings.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Upper Grand Lagoon located?
It is located in Florida, right next to Panama City Beach.
What is St. Andrews State Park?
A beautiful park with white sand beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
Are there good seafood restaurants?
Yes, Captain Anderson's is a legendary restaurant in the area.
Can you take boat tours?
Yes, many tours to Shell Island depart from the local marinas.
Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely, it is quieter than the main strip of Panama City Beach.
Upper Grand Lagoon: where is it located?
Upper Grand Lagoon is located in United States.
Upper Grand Lagoon: why is it worth visiting?
Upper Grand Lagoon is positioned at the eastern end of Panama City Beach and serves as the epicenter for nautical adventures on Florida's Emerald Coast.
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