Area Attractions

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Museum of Man in the Sea

The Museum of Man in the Sea was founded in 1976 by the Institute of Diving, which is made up of former Navy Seals, and marine scientists. It is a place where the history of man's relationship with the undersea world is explored through interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. Visitors can climb through a submarine, try on a brass diving helmet, and learn about the weird and wonderful techniques that ancient divers used for breathing and staying underwater. The museum has exhibits of submarines, diving pods, underwater living facilities, masks and helmets, and commercial and naval diving equipment. There is also an interesting film on diving that can be viewed by visitors.

Science and Discovery Center

The Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida is a children's museum designed to introduce children to history, technology, and science, in a hands-on interactive fashion. Outdoors there is a nature trail through the woods with a boardwalk over the marshy areas, a pioneer village, a toddler's playground, and a very nice shaded picnic area under the trees. Indoors there is much for children to explore, and kids especially like the real airplane cockpit which they can investigate. Once a week there are animal encounters with snakes and other reptiles. The museum hosts summer camps, birthday parties, and is an excellent learning environment for homeschooled children whose parents wish to add more science to their curriculum.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Shipwreck Island Waterpark is an activity-filled aquatics park with thrills for the whole family. Visitors can battle the waves in the 500,000 gallon wave pool, drop from the Tree Top Drop, a high free-fall slide, race other swimmers down the Pirate's Plunge Racing Slide, zipline off a replica 17th century sailing ship, and ride the rapids on inner tubes at the Raging Rapids River. Groups can share a large inner tube and navigate the twists and turns of White Knuckle River, or, for gentler adventures, paddle along the 2000 foot long lazy river. For younger kids there is a family activity pool with miniature themed slides. Shipwreck Island Waterpark hires only professionally trained aquatics staff, has lots of food and drink kiosks to recharge after a day in the water, and plenty of shaded spots to sit in

Hombre Golf Club

Hombre Golf Club is a 27-hole PGA course in beautiful surroundings. The course is between wetlands, marshlands, lakes, and preserves, and dotted with stands of palm trees, pine, and azalea. The Panama City Beach Classic is held here, and the course has hosted many of the course has hosted many of the world's finest golfers. Professional training is available, whether you're a beginner or looking to knock a few strokes off your game. The Academy at Hombre offers video swing analysis, golf schools, private and group lessons, and junior golf camps. The golf club has putting greens and a driving range. After a round of golf, players can cool off in the fully-licenced Siesta Bar and Grill, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and which has a terrace with a gorgeous view of the course.