Situated in Panama City Beach, Florida, Surfside Middle School is more than just an educational institution—it's a vibrant community hub. With its classic American school architecture surrounded by lush greenery, the campus offers a peaceful retreat. During dismissal hours, you'll feel the lively energy as students rush across the playground. It's a perfect spot to experience authentic American school culture! Nearby, you’ll find stunning beaches and charming local eateries, making it easy to plan a delightful day trip.


This is the ultimate getaway for families and friends! Steps from the beach, with 3 outdoor pools and a sauna to unwind. Love sports? Enjoy tennis courts, a fitness center, and rock climbing, while kids have fun in the game room and mini-golf. Wind down at the bar or fire up the BBQ grill, plus free parking and airport shuttle make it hassle-free. Rooms feature private balconies and fully-equipped kitchens for a cozy stay.



Everything you need to know about Surfside Middle School
While primarily a school, the surrounding Panama City Beach offers family-friendly activities. The Gulf Coast Science Center nearby features interactive exhibits on marine ecology, just a 10-minute drive from campus.
The calm waters by St. Andrews State Park (12 minutes from school) are ideal for kayaking lessons. Rental shops provide life vests and certified instructors, with special beginner sessions at 9AM daily.
Take the Shell Island Shuttle departing from nearby Captain Anderson's Marina. The 20-minute boat ride passes through dolphin habitats, with commentary on local marine ecosystems.
The Florida State University Coastal & Marine Lab hosts junior scientist programs during summer, covering topics like marine biodiversity and coastal geology, open to ages 10-14.
The school's hurricane-resistant design includes impact-resistant windows and elevated foundations. Its solar panel array powers 30% of campus operations, with educational displays in the lobby.
Check the flag warning system - red flags indicate dangerous currents. The school's neighborhood has designated bike lanes, but avoid walking along Back Beach Road during rush hours.
See what other travelers say about Surfside Middle School

Staying at this beachfront resort was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just steps away from the sand and waves, making it incredibly easy to enjoy the ocean every day. The property itself is clean, well-maintained, and offers everything you'd need for a relaxing getaway. I especially appreciated how close everything was—restaurants, shops, and local spots were just a short walk away. The convenience of having all amenities within reach made the whole experience seamless and stress-free. It's clear that attention to detail goes into every aspect of the stay. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind by the sea without compromising on comfort or accessibility.

We absolutely loved staying at Emerald Beach by Panhandle Getaways! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the beach and surrounded by great restaurants and local shops. Our room was clean, well-maintained, and had a cozy, modern vibe that made us feel right at home. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and we slept like babies every night. The only minor downside was the elevators—they could use some upgrades—but honestly, it didn’t take away from the overall experience. Staff were friendly and helpful, always smiling and ready to assist. From check-in to checkout, everything felt seamless. This place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and value. We’d definitely come back for another getaway—highly recommend!

Our stay at Celadon Beach Resort was absolutely delightful. The price was incredibly reasonable for the area—especially when compared to other accommodations we've booked nearby. The rooms were clean, well-maintained, and offered a lovely balance of comfort and style. What truly stood out was the breathtaking view from our balcony; waking up to the sound of waves and endless ocean vistas made every moment feel special. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we felt welcome and comfortable—they were always prompt, friendly, and helpful with any request. Whether it was local recommendations or assistance with check-in, they made us feel like guests, not just customers. Plus, the location is ideal—close to beaches, dining, and attractions, yet peaceful enough to unwind. For anyone looking for a relaxing, high-quality beach getaway without breaking the bank, this resort is a top pick. We’ll definitely be back.

The stay was fantastic overall! The only minor downside was the wait for the elevators, but everything else exceeded expectations. There are two pools and a hot tub—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Pool towels were provided, which is a nice touch. On-site amenities include a restaurant, a Tiki bar, and a convenience store—everything you need is right there. There’s also a small gym if you want to squeeze in a quick workout. It’s super close to Panama City’s restaurants and attractions, making it easy to enjoy the local vibe without needing to drive far. Security on property is solid, so you feel safe at all times. A few more elevators would definitely improve the experience, but otherwise, this place is an excellent choice. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.

Staying at Fontainebleau Terrace, Panama City Beach was an absolute highlight. The location is unbeatable—right on the beach with a view that takes your breath away. We arrived at 3 a.m., and thank goodness for self-check-in; it made our late-night arrival stress-free. Plus, having a late check-out until noon was perfect for stretching out our vacation time. My favorite part? The rooftop terrace on the 5th floor—unforgettable views of the ocean, especially at sunset. It’s like standing in a million-dollar picture. The whole experience felt luxurious without the fuss. Highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Panama City Beach.

This place is absolutely stunning! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the beach, with breathtaking views of the ocean. The property itself is beautifully maintained, and every detail feels thoughtfully designed. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel welcome and well taken care of. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway, whether you’re looking to unwind or explore the local area. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Panama City Beach.

I won’t be booking here again. While the room itself was decent, the building maintenance is a major concern. Only one elevator was working during our stay, and it felt unsafe—many guests waited over an hour just to go up or down. For those with mobility issues or traveling with kids, climbing eight flights of stairs isn’t realistic. Ice was only available on one floor, requiring a 30-minute wait via the unreliable elevator or carrying bags up eight floors. To make matters worse, each bag of ice cost $7—way too expensive. What’s most disappointing is how indifferent the staff seemed. No one appeared to care about the obvious problems. This experience significantly impacted my overall satisfaction. I’d rather choose another hotel next time.

This place exceeded all my expectations! From the moment I arrived, everything felt perfect. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the beach, with waves crashing right outside the window every morning. My room was spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated with modern touches and thoughtful amenities, including a mini-fridge stocked with drinks. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—they even arranged a local tour for me without any hassle. The breakfast buffet was fantastic, with fresh ingredients and a wide variety of options. I’ve stayed at many beach resorts before, but this one truly stands out for its comfort, service, and value. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing, memorable getaway.

Staying at Hyatt Place Panama City Beach/Beachfront was an absolute delight. The property is immaculately clean and well-maintained, with a fresh, inviting atmosphere from the moment you walk in. The views from our room were simply breathtaking—overlooking the beach and ocean, it felt like waking up to a postcard every morning. The location couldn’t be better; just a short stroll to the sand and local spots, making it perfect for both relaxation and exploring. Staff were friendly and efficient, adding to the overall pleasant experience. It’s rare to find such comfort, cleanliness, and convenience all in one place. I’ll definitely be returning.

As a longtime resident at Laketown Wharf Resort by Emerald View Resorts, I can confidently say this place feels like home. With 775 privately owned units, there’s a great mix of character and quality across the property. I highly recommend choosing a recently updated unit—it truly elevates the experience and lives up to expectations. The management team does an outstanding job, often already on-site before tourists even begin their day. Their dedication shows in every detail. It’s not just a resort—it’s a community. For full-time homeowners like me, it’s more than a getaway; it’s where we live, grow, and create memories. Ongoing upgrades continue to enhance the property, making it even better each year. If you’re visiting or considering a stay, treat this place with care—as if it were your own. You’ll appreciate everything it offers.

The property is perfectly located—just a short walk from the beach and super convenient for exploring the area. The views are absolutely stunning, especially at sunset, and the large pool area is clean, well-maintained, and perfect for relaxing. While the building’s exterior could use a little more upkeep, it’s not a dealbreaker—especially since this was our third stay. We keep coming back because of the amazing pool experience and breathtaking ocean views. It’s become our go-to spot for a peaceful, scenic getaway, and we’d definitely return again.

I was a bit hesitant about booking through Vacasa and staying in a newer rental, but we took the leap—and it was totally worth it. Unit 1803 was absolutely stunning, and the photos on the platform matched the reality perfectly. The view was breathtaking, and the space felt spacious and well-designed. Everything we needed was provided—kitchenware, linens, even laundry facilities. Having a washer and dryer made packing up so much easier; no more dragging dirty clothes home. Communication with the team was prompt and friendly—quick replies via text before arrival, clear check-in instructions, and helpful emails during checkout. One minor note: they mentioned one elevator would be out of service soon, which I noticed—sometimes waiting for the other one could take a bit longer. But overall, it didn’t impact our stay too much. The pool and hot tub were sparkling clean each morning, though it’s a shame staff have to work hard daily because some guests don’t rinse off sand before entering. Still, that didn’t dampen the experience. We had a wonderful time, enjoyed every moment, and will definitely recommend this place to friends. Would love to come back!
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