Come in the early morning for surprisingly good fishing or arrive after an afternoon of sunbathing to enjoy a colorful sunset.
The wide M.B. Miller County Pier stretches from the sands of Panama City Beach 1,500 feet (460 meters) out over the Gulf of Mexico. Pay admission to walk along the pier and gaze through clear skies at the distant horizon. Benches are available along the length of the pier and at the end. For an additional daily fee, join others fishing from the pier. No license is needed.
If you don’t have fishing gear with you, rent a rod and purchase bait at the entrance to the pier. Depending on the season, you might catch cobia, mackerel, flounder, hardtails, pompano and 70 other types of sport fish. Locals say fishing is best at dawn and dusk. Fish for non-protected shark species after dark, with turtle-friendly lighting guiding your way along the pier.
Bring binoculars to watch seabirds. You may also see dolphins, sharks, turtles, rays, jellyfish and schools of small fish in the waters next to the pier.
Allow time before or after your visit to the pier for relaxing on Panama City Beach’s white sands. Sunbathe, jog alongside incoming waves or look for shells when the tide goes out. Beach access near the pier includes a ramp for wheelchairs and strollers to cross the soft sand. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer.
The three-day SandJam Music Festival in April brings thousands of visitors to the beach surrounding the pier. Come on July 4 to watch the annual fireworks. Viewing them from the pier gives the double excitement of seeing their reflections in the water.
M.B. Miller County Pier is always open, making it great for watching sunrises and sunsets. Be aware that some people refer interchangeably to this and Russell-Fields City Pier as Panama City Beach Pier, so be sure you’re in the right place.
The pier is about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from Panama City and 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the town of Panama City Beach. Paved parking is available across the street. Use restrooms at the entry and midpoint of the pier. Purchase snacks and drinks here or at restaurants just inland from the beach.
