The Haunted History of Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach may be famous for its sugar-white sand and emerald waters, but after dark, a chilling history comes to life. From haunted state parks and ghostly inns to terrifying Halloween attractions, the area offers plenty for those who crave a scare.
Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just looking for spooky fun this fall, here’s your guide to the haunted history and haunted attractions in Panama City Beach.
Haunted Legends at Camp Helen State Park
Camp Helen State Park is more than a scenic coastal preserve—it’s one of the region’s most haunted spots. Local legend tells of Rose, a young enslaved girl who died tragically after a shipwreck in 1843. Visitors claim her spirit still roams the park, with reports of cold spots, whispers in the dark, and ghostly figures drifting near the historic lodge.
Its abandoned buildings and quiet trails create the perfect atmosphere for an eerie encounter.
Panama City’s Most Haunted Places
The Panama City News Herald highlights several of the city’s most notoriously haunted locations:
The Martin Theatre – Guests report shadowy figures and phantom footsteps echoing backstage.
Old County Jail – Said to be haunted by former inmates who never found peace.
The Martin House – A historic waterfront property known for decades of ghost sightings.
Billy’s Restaurant (historic site) – Strange happenings tied to its storied past.
Historic Inns and Hotels – Some say guests checked in, but never checked out.
These locations remain favorites for ghost hunters and history buffs alike.
Haunted Houses & Halloween Attractions
For those who prefer staged scares, Panama City Beach offers heart-pounding seasonal attractions:
Fear at the Pier Haunted House – A walk-through nightmare with live actors, special effects, and terrifying monsters.
Swampy Jack’s SKULK Trail & Mr. Creepies’ Demented Labyrinth – Outdoor mazes that twist through haunted woods.
Escape Rooms PCB – Featuring themed experiences like a haunted house escape challenge.
Perfect for Halloween thrill-seekers, these attractions deliver frights without the ghost hunt.
Paranormal Encounters & Ghost Tours
Unlike St. Augustine or Savannah, Panama City Beach doesn’t have a daily ghost tour scene—but seasonal ghost walks and local storytellers bring haunted history to life during October. Visitors also whisper about eerie experiences at old inns, abandoned houses, and historic coastal landmarks.
Keep an eye out for community-hosted paranormal events when visiting in the fall.
Final Thoughts: Haunted Panama City Beach
From Rose’s tragic spirit at Camp Helen to the restless souls of the Old County Jail, Panama City Beach holds more than its share of ghost stories. Add in modern haunted houses and Halloween attractions, and you’ve got a destination that blends sun, sand, and spine-tingling scares.
Next time you’re in PCB, step beyond the beaches—if you dare.
Haunted Panama City Beach: FAQs
What happened at the Martin House in Panama City, Florida?
The Martin House is one of Panama City’s most famous haunted spots. Built in the early 1900s, it has a tragic history tied to its original owners, and locals claim to see apparitions, hear unexplained noises, and feel a ghostly presence near the waterfront.
Is Camp Helen State Park really haunted?
Yes—local legend says the park is haunted by the spirit of Rose, a young enslaved girl who died in 1843. Many visitors report cold chills, strange whispers, and ghostly sightings near the historic lodge.
Where is the scariest haunted house in Panama City Beach?
Fear at the Pier Haunted House is considered the most terrifying Halloween attraction in PCB, featuring live actors, chilling special effects, and monsters lurking in the dark.
Are there ghost tours in Panama City Beach?
While PCB doesn’t have nightly ghost tours like some historic cities, seasonal events and local storytellers often host haunted walks and paranormal experiences during October.
What are the most haunted places in Panama City, FL?
The Martin Theatre, Old County Jail, Martin House, Billy’s historic restaurant site, and several old inns and hotels are frequently listed among Panama City’s most haunted locations.
