A new state-of-the-art airport is slated to open in 2010, bringing better service and more competitive fares from major markets in the United States and abroad. The project also will create a 40,000-acre nature preserve with the largest expanse of undeveloped coastline in the state of Florida.

Room inventory has grown to more than 28,000 rooms in 2008. Visitors find a wealth of oceanfront accommodations for all budgets, from cozy beach cottages to luxury, family-friendly, three-bedroom condominiums with private balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

Located in the heart of town on Front Beach Road, Pier Park completes its second phase early this spring. At 1.1 million square feet, Pier Park will be the largest shopping, dining and entertainment complex in Northwest Florida. Shops include popular national chains and local favorites. Visitors to Pier Park will also enjoy al fresco dining on rooftop restaurants with Gulf views.

The destination boasts a variety of dive sites, with historical, natural and artificial reefs all within easy reach. Historic wrecks include a 441-foot World War II ship, a coastal freighter, several tugboats and the Gulf of Mexico’s most famous wreck, the 465-foot Empire Mica. Visitors can explore natural or artificial reefs teaming with exotic sea life just a few miles offshore. The jetties at St. Andrews Recreation Area are other popular snorkeling sites. Customized packages and charters are available at full-service dive shops.

Panama City Beach was cited as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Beaches” by Condé Nast Traveler 2006. Families find affordable fun in the sun year-round – from boating and fishing to snorkeling, diving and parasailing. Gulf World Marine Park offers up-close-and-personal dolphin encounters. More fun is found at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, one of Florida’s largest waterparks; Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium and Ripley’s Moving Theater; ZooWorld, miniature golf courses, pirate cruises and more.

Visitors who venture beyond the sand and surf find opportunities for every member of the family. The destination hosts world-class sporting events, music festivals, crafts fairs, horse shows, fishing tournaments, car rallies, holiday fests and more. Highlights include:

Gulf Coast Charity Horse Show & Music Festival (April 24 – 26, 2008) – One of America’s largest equestrian celebrations, this award-winning charity fundraiser draws more than 500 horses and exhibitors from across the country. Annual highlights include live music, arts, crafts, food, children’s pony rides and more.

Grand Lagoon National Saltwater Fishing Tournament (Aug. 20 – 24, 2008) – Poised to become one of the nation’s largest, most inclusive sport-fishing tournaments, the Grand Lagoon National boasts six competitive divisions at four marinas for a $1 million purse. More than 400 boats and 2,000 anglers from across the country are expected.

Super Boat Florida/National Championship (Oct. 3 – 5, 2008) – The culmination of the Super Boat Grand Prix national series. Engines roar as 50-foot superboats slice across the Gulf of Mexico at speeds upwards of 200 mph. Also featuring boat parades, awards, parties and more, it’s an action-packed weekend for the family.