Edited: This information was last updated on 05/23/2020.
If you have been following the news in Florida this spring, you are probably aware that due to Covid-19 the beaches were closed and vacation rentals were banned for much of this spring, bringing activity in Panama City Beach to a screeching halt. On May 1st, public beaches were fully reopened, and on May 19th vacation rental activity resumed. If you're thinking about a trip to Panama City Beach this summer, you might be wondering what you can expect.
Contactless Check-In
Guests will receive a text from Dunes of Panama on their check-in date when the condo is ready. This text will include the door code so guests can access the unit directly upon arrival. A welcome packet with important information about their stay will be waiting inside the unit.
Heightened Cleaning Standards
Cleaning teams at our condo are taking extra precautions and complying with the cleaning standards in Bay County's submitted plan for reopening vacation rentals. This includes deploying a ULV Cold Mist Fog inside the unit after it has been cleaned. Additionally, some soft furnishings have been temporarily removed from the condo. Common areas and pool decks are also being cleaned more frequently and closing at 8pm to allow for the cleaning.
Reduced Capacity at Restaurants
At the time of this post, outdoor dining is allowed and indoor dining is available at a 50% occupancy rate. Many restaurants also continue to offer takeout, curbside pick-up, and in some cases delivery. Unfortunately, some restaurants closed for good after the challenges they faced this spring. We would encourage you to call before you go, to make sure you understand how the restaurant is operating. We also encourage you to support local establishments if you can during your visit!
Modified Recreation Operations
St. Andrews State Park reopened to the public with limited access on May 5th. Amusement parks and attractions are also reopening as they submit safety plans and receive endorsement from the local officials. The Sea Screamer is now offering dolphin trips and sunset cruises again. At the time of this writing, Gulf World Marine Park is operating on a modified schedule and recommends purchasing tickets in advance. As with the restaurants, it is best to double check before you go.
All of the information in this post was accurate at the time it was posted. As with everything connected to Covid-19, the situation is fluid and changing quickly. Our hope is that throughout the summer, Panama City Beach looks more and more like herself in terms of operations. The visitors bureau has been a great resource for current regulations in the area. Check out this page for more information.
We have had the opportunity to watch how Covid-19 impacted Panama City Beach firsthand, as we were onsite regularly from March - May of this year. We can attest that it is every bit as delightful as it has always been. This area, which relies so heavily on tourism, is ready to welcome guests back and celebrate everything that makes Panama City Beach so special. We hope to see you soon!
