Tales from the Road: Visiting Historic St. Andrews

In my 24-hour quest to do different things while in Panama City Beach, Fla., I decided this was the perfect time to head inland to visit St. Andrews. 

Located about 10-15 minutes from where I was staying at the Shores of Panama on Thomas Drive (may be longer with lights, traffic and if you are staying on the other end of the beach), the neighborhood is exemplifies “old Florida.”

After parking my car in the free, public parking lot across from the marina, it was time to explore. St. Andrews is filled with quaint shops, seafood restaurants, the above-mentioned marina and a park with some interesting features (more on that later.) And that best part is that all of this is within one or two blocks of each other, making it a great place to get out and walk.

Take it from me, it’s worth taking a couple of hours out of your beach trip to visit St. Andrews next time you happen to be in Panama City Beach. You won’t regret it at all and you might discover some new places that might become old favorites in no time.

Can’t miss: If you aren’t drawn in by the moss-drape oak trees, then maybe you like to see the rare four-headed palm tree  or the  Old Sentry, a heritage oak tree said to be over 250-year-old at Oaks by the Bay Park. The five-acre park also has a boardwalk that leads down to the bay.

Have to eat here: Honestly you can’t go wrong eating any where in St. Andrews. If you’re into seafood, well, you’re in the right place. However, if it’s Apalachicola oysters you’re after and really don’t want to drive to Apalachicola at this moment, then head to Hunt’s Oyster Bar.

Don’t forget: You can also enjoy the outdoors by canoeing, kayaking and/or fishing in St. Andrews.

photo credit: personal photos