Which is the better place to surf - Destin or Panama City?

Are there big waves in Destin or Panama City Beach FL?

• We went to Gulf Shores Alabama a couple years ago and the waves were not very big so we wanted to make sure we went to a place with big waves now. Also, would you tell me if you liked it there or heard it was good?? Thanks!!

• Answer:

  If you're looking for 'surfing' waves, you'll be disappointed in Destin or Panama City Beach, too. Panama City, FL is only about a 3-4 hour drive east of Gulf Shores, Alabama. The waves will probably be similar to what you experienced in Gulf Shores, depending on the weather. The Gulf of Mexico beaches of the Florida panhandle, Alabama and Mississippi don't tend to have huge waves under normal circumstances. There is generally a gentle surf, with small breakers, usually no more than 2-3 feet at high tide. I have vacationed in Destin and Panama City and enjoyed the beaches very much. The beaches are beautiful, the water is usually nice (if the jellyfish aren't swarming). I actually prefer Gulf Shores myself.