Overall, customers praised the food for being delicious and fresh, particularly seafood dishes, though some found certain items overpriced or undercooked.
Service Experience
Service quality varied significantly; while many praised attentive and friendly staff, others reported slow service and issues with order accuracy.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's beachside location and sunset views were frequently highlighted as major positives, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews mentioned that the prices were high relative to portion sizes and food quality, leading to mixed feelings about value for money.
BS
Bob Staples
Jan 9, 2026
4.0
We stopped in for a quick lunch and to take advantage of their $12.48 lunch specials. The food and service were great. The Spinach dip with pita triangles was good, but not worth the $18.00 price tag.
AB
Aja Ben
Jan 6, 2026
3.0
Our server was nice, and we made it just before sunset. It’s definitely worth the view because that is essentially what you’re paying for.
The food was okay, but the oysters I received were the worst I’ve ever tried and I was raised in the area. Super dry and the cheese was so hard that I couldn’t get through it to the oyster with the little plastic utensil they give you for them. I ate two of them and left the rest. There was literally no moisture left inside of the shell. I took the salmon pesto bowl to go and the pesto sauce was the star. Serving portions are pretty small. Pictures of the oysters for your enjoyment.
OT
olivia thomas
Jan 3, 2026
1.0
very overpriced for the area and food not good. i got alaskan snow crab and maybe got one leg worth of meat out of 3 clusters and the little meat i did get did not have a good taste. definitely worst crab i've ever had. my partner got the baja tacos and said they were bad as well. i recommend spending your money elsewhere.
D1
DaVetteMan “1fastgaboi”
Jan 2, 2026
5.0
First time here definitely won't be the last!! World class raw oysters would be an understatement. Service from Brie and the manager Carl was borderline breathtaking. This is a must visit when you get to P.C.B!! Prices were amazing and the kids loved it. Super chill vibe.
NW
Nikki Weymer
Dec 28, 2025
5.0
I'm a local and I had thought about trying this place, but never got around to it today. Let me tell you...
I would give it 10 stars! Let's start with the fact that they have the sweetest ladies working there from the lovely hostesses to our server, even when we left other waitresses told us to have a good day. Just a genuine hospitable attitude throughout this restaurant.
The second great thing about this restaurant is that it is in a prime location with amazing views. The restaurant, especially for having an expansive outdoor area is very clean and tidy. The outdoor area has really nice umbrellas and most seating seems to have views of the ocean.
Finally, the FOOD! Excellent and fresh. Beyond just bar food. Yes, there's that too, but this feels more quality. We had a fresh salad with berries and almonds etc. and Old Bay Shrimp and Cheese Curds, and then finished it off with a brownie sundae. I didn't expect this to be my favorite place to get a salad--it was so fresh and good. And as far as the seafood, very good. The dessert was really good and didn't taste like they just bought it from Cosco, it actually tasted really good.
This is going to be my new go to place for lunch or dinner. Well done, Runaway Island. To have great service and amazing food is a rare find.
Runaway Island is located at 14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, US.
What are the operating hours of Runaway Island?
Runaway Island is open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Thursday and Sunday, and from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Does Runaway Island offer a bar and alcoholic beverages?
Yes, Runaway Island has an onsite bar serving liquor, cocktails, beer, wine, and happy hour drinks and food.
Is Runaway Island family-friendly and accessible?
Yes, Runaway Island welcomes families, has a children's menu, high chairs, wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms.
Can I make a reservation at Runaway Island?
Runaway Island accepts reservations but does not require them.
Does Runaway Island provide takeout, delivery, or catering services?
Runaway Island offers takeout and catering services but does not provide delivery.
What types of meals does Runaway Island serve?
Runaway Island serves lunch, dinner, dessert, coffee, cocktails, and has happy hour selections. It does not serve breakfast or brunch.
What nearby attractions can I visit before or after dining at Runaway Island?
You can visit Beach Access 51 for beach and park activities or enjoy entertainment at the Fun-Land Arcade & Snack Bar and Central Time Lounge nearby.
Are there any accommodation options near Runaway Island?
Yes, nearby accommodation options include Peek's Motel, Palm Grove Hotel, Ocean Reef Resort Panama City Beach, and several holiday rental homes such as Ocean Reef Unit #1104 and Zen by the Sea.
Can I find other dining options near Runaway Island?
Yes, nearby dining options include Pineapple Willy's, Schooner's, Local Steamer Seafood Market, Jerk Shack Spice & Sport Bar, Salvatore's Pizza & Wings, Mr BG's Diner, and AutentiKa Mexican Grille.