White sand and clear water at the Palmetto Hotel in Panama City Beach, Florida.

White sand and clear water at the Palmetto Hotel in Panama City Beach, Florida.Nashville has a love affair with Panama City Beach. Located just 7 hours south of Nashville, the Emerald Coast has much to offer to those looking to escape Nashville for a few days. We took off Thursday morning and had our toes in the delicious waters of the Gulf at 5 PM. If you're from the north or California, get ready for something really different, these beaches are unlike any you seen. In the Spring , between Spring Break and the the end of School, the beached can be deserted and the place is yours. Nashville loves how easy the drive is, with Interstate 65 taking you almost to the coast and good roads the rest of the way.Try to have atleast 4 dyas to spend, that'll give you at least 3 beautiful nights and two full days on the beach.For more than 7 years now we have enjoyed spending Mother's Day weekend at the Palmetto Hotel in Panama City. During that time we've seen Panama City grow a little, the Hotel remodeled and restaurants come and go, but our old favorites still remain.We always have at least 1 meal at Dusty's Oyster House. Oysters on the Half Shell at Dusty's Oyster House in Panama City, Florida

Apalachicola is just 50 miles down the coast from Panama City and the Oysters are always fresh, cold and sweet.  Dusty’s also serves Grouper and Amber jack to.

You can find any kind of seafood in Panama City, and it’s all fresh. New Restaurants include,  Margaretaville and the famous Hof-Brau House from Munich.

The Real star of the area is of course the white sand beaches.  The sand is very fine and the children love. The water this past weekend was almost 80 degrees with a gentle swell, just big enough for a little body surfing.  Typically you’ll see Dolphins and an occasional Ray in the waters through the day.

Nashville never gets tired of Panama City and the local communities of Seaside and Grayton Beach.  Be sure to check this out when you need a little getaway.

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