When most people think of Panama City Beach, they think of warm, sunshiny summer days. But fall in PCB is quite beautiful, too! With fewer crowds, mild weather, and plenty of fun things to do, don’t count out October in Panama City Beach!
Just imagine it now: you’re lying out on the sand, free from the busy crowds of summer and the snowbirds that flock to Florida in the winter. The water is nice, the sunsets are gorgeous, and you can find time to truly relax in between exciting fall and Halloween-themed events. It just doesn’t get any better than that!
If all that sounds like paradise, you’re in the right place! We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about October in Panama City Beach, and how you can make the most of your fall vacation. Let’s explore now!
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In this blog:
- What is the Weather Like in October at Panama City Beach?
- Is October a Good Time to Visit Panama City Beach?
- When is Hurricane Season in Florida?
- Celebrate Halloween in Panama City Beach
- Book Your October Panama City Beach Getaway Directly with Benchmark Realty!
What is the Weather Like in October at Panama City Beach?
In our opinion, October weather is Panama City Beach at its best. Average highs are in the low 80s °F, and average lows drop to the mid 60s °F, so you can enjoy pleasant weather during the day and a slight chill at night. That’s a perfect recipe for a fall vacation, complete with sunny beach days and cozy nights in (or out!).
Humidity levels are also much lower than in the muggy summer on the coast, at around 68%, so walking around in the fall is much nicer. Sometimes, it can be so humid and muggy in the summertime that being outside is only enjoyable when you’re by the water, but that’s not true in the fall!
Is October a Good Time to Visit Panama City Beach?
Yes! October is a fantastic time to visit us here on the Emerald Coast. Since the weather is so beautiful and there are fewer crowds, it’s one of our favorite times to go to the beach.
Is it Too Cold to Swim at Panama City Beach in October?
No! The water temperature stays pretty mild all year in Panama City Beach, and in October, it sits somewhere in the upper 70s °F. That’s not too cold for most people to swim! If you’re not an ocean swimmer, we also have plenty of rentals with private pools where you can take a dip, even in the fall.
When is Hurricane Season in Florida?
Of course, it’s wise to stay updated on the weather before you make your way to Florida. Hurricane season typically runs from June 1st to November 30th, so October is well within its confines. That being said, though, October hurricanes are much less common than August and September hurricanes!
Regardless, it’s important to keep an eye on potential hurricanes before your trip so you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe—we’ve all seen the damage they can cause. When you book your trip with Benchmark Management, adding travel insurance is a good idea, especially if you’re traveling within that June-November hurricane window.
Our travel insurance covers unexpected events such as illness, job loss, mandatory evacuations, family emergencies, and, yes, hurricanes. It protects against trip cancellation or interruption and provides reimbursement so you can still make the most of your stay, even if you miss a day or two due to weather. It’s a wise investment, especially if you’re visiting Panama City Beach in October!
Celebrate Halloween in Panama City Beach
We can’t forget to talk about Halloween! You can have a fantastic time celebrating this beloved holiday in PCB. Check out these Halloween events happening:
Pirates of the High Seas Fest:
October 10th-12th, 2025
If you love dressing up, this is the event for you! It’s similar to other Renaissance Fairs, but ours is pirate-themed. The whole weekend is free to attend, and you can enjoy fireworks, mermaid shows, a fire circus, parades, and so much more! The whole family will love this exciting event, happening right before Halloween!
Trunk or Treat at St. Andrews State Park
October 25th, 2025, 6-7 PM, Free
Your kiddos will love “trunk” or treating at this fun event! They can also get their face painted, and everyone is welcome to enter the trunk decorating contest.
Zoo Boo at Zoo World
October 25th-26th 2025, 10 AM-4 PM both days
Even the animals at Zoo World get into the Halloween spirit this time of year! Dress up along with the animals and witness fun events like tortoise racing and trick-or-treating.
Fear at the Pier
While this haunted house is open year-round, they make it even spookier in October. Enter if you dare!
Other October events in Panama City Beach:
Oktoberfest
October 3rd-5th, 2025
Another beloved fall event in PCB is Oktoberfest. Every October, folks can hang out, listen to live music, and drink the best beer around! Take part in traditional Oktoberfest events like Stein Hoisting, Alp Horn Blowing, and Best Dressed competitions, and get ready for an amazing time!
Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally
October 22nd-26th, 2025
If motorcycles are your thing, you’ll want to be here for the Thunder Beach Rally! It’s one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the United States, and includes scenic motorcycle rides, live entertainment, bike contests, shows, and more!
Book Your October Panama City Beach Getaway Directly with Benchmark Realty!
4 Bed, 2 Bath Panama City Beach Rental, "A Salty Cru".
The last step to having a fabulous October vacation in PCB is, of course, booking your accommodations! When you stay with Benchmark Realty, you’ll have the trip of your dreams.
Whether you’re looking to stay in an expansive oceanfront home, enjoy the fall weather in a private pool, or find a pet-friendly property so your pup can join you on your journey, we’re confident that you’ll find the right fit for you amongst our impressive catalog of Emerald Coast vacation rentals. You can stay in Panama City Beach itself or choose from one of our other charming beach communities! The opportunities are endless when you stay with Benchmark.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re intrigued by the idea of an October Panama City Beach trip, it’s time to get the wheels turning by booking your vacation rental. Browse our available Panama City Beach rentals here, and book your trip directly with us at Benchmark Management!