While many customers enjoyed the seafood and specific dishes like the grouper and spinach dip, there were several complaints about blandness, overcooked items, and inconsistent quality.
Service Issues
Service was frequently noted as a problem, with reports of inattentive waitstaff, slow service, and order mix-ups, although some servers received praise for their attentiveness.
Atmosphere
The beachside setting and views were consistently praised, contributing to a pleasant dining experience, though noise levels and seating arrangements were sometimes criticized.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews mentioned that the food was overpriced for the portion sizes and quality, with additional fees causing dissatisfaction among customers.
Mixed Experiences
Overall experiences varied widely, with some customers having fantastic meals and service while others reported significant disappointments, leading to a lack of consistency.
NS
Nique Stuckey
4 days ago
5.0
10/10000000 great view atmosphere was great and food was perfect we spent a 100$ it’s a little over priced but it was good and we got no drinks the steak was perfect
JL
jim ledbetter
4 days ago
4.0
12 for $12.48. Is a great deal and also has great options. My son and I got their burgers and they were both very well done. We asked for medium to medium rare. Taste was there, but way to done. Wife got the crusted Flounder and it was great.
FF
Frank Fontenot
Nov 17, 2025
5.0
Haley served our table and she was genuine and personable. We didn’t want for anything because Haley was so attentive. The food was absolutely divine! Thank you very much.
SW
Susan Worthington
Nov 8, 2025
4.0
I had the blackened shrimp basket. The seasoning tasted pretty good. My husband had the sirloin. Asked for well done but came medium-well. Good flavor. We were with a group of around 25 people so some service was a bit slow, but all of the servers were kind.
JS
Jim S
Nov 7, 2025
4.0
We ate lunch on the patio this week. The beach view is great and the vibe is not bad. The waitress raved about the Baja Rolls so we ordered them as an appetizer - pretty bland and not worth $16. Our grouper sandwiches were good however my french fries were stone cold. Service was a little slow but that's probably the norm this time of the year.
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.