Runaway Island

Reviews

• KM

  Kelsey Mize

  2 days ago
  2.0
  We paid about $75 for three drinks (two sweet teas and one piña colada — which I ended up sending back because it tasted like frozen milk), a burger with fries, shrimp tacos with mashed potatoes, and fried pickles. Unfortunately, the food was bland and didn’t feel worth the price. I understand that you’re partially paying for the view, and it is beautiful, but the overall experience was underwhelming and overpriced for the quality. Our waitress also seemed irritated and rushed us to order, which made the experience less enjoyable. On a positive note, we visited on a Monday around 6 p.m. with a party of four and were seated immediately, which we appreciated. Overall, I don’t think we’ll be returning
• SF

  Summer Fryer

  3 days ago
  5.0
  We actually ended up going to this restaurant TWICE during our vacation, once the night before we got engaged, and again the night we got engaged 💍❤️ And honestly… that alone should tell you how amazing this place is. Both times, I ordered the Hawaiian Ribeye, and when I tell you this is hands down the BEST steak I have ever had in my entire life, I mean it. It’s marinated in pineapple and teriyaki sauce, and it was so unbelievably flavorful and tender that I literally had to order it again the next time we went back 😂 Their hush puppies are also OUTSTANDING. They have corn in them, are perfectly buttery, and seriously addictive. We also tried the oysters, the Rockefeller and raw oysters, and both were amazing! Now let’s talk about the service because WOW. I unfortunately do not remember our server’s name from the first night, but she was absolutely phenomenal. She was incredibly attentive without ever feeling pushy. The best way I can describe her is she was absolutely beautiful, dark-skinned, and was training a newer guy that evening. She was truly top-tier. The second we finished a drink, she was there checking if we wanted another. She checked in on our food, made sure everything was perfect, and genuinely made us feel taken care of. We left her a really great tip because she absolutely deserved it. And let’s not forget the VIEW 😍 Between the incredible food, amazing service, and beautiful atmosphere, this place could not have been any better. We will 1000% be back every time we visit Panama City Beach!
• NM

  Nancy Merk

  4 days ago
  5.0
  Had an amazing experience at Runaway Island! The atmosphere was beautiful, relaxing, and had the perfect beachside vibe. The food was fresh, flavorful, and came out hot and delicious. The Caribbean wings were absolutely amazing — packed with flavor and cooked perfectly. The seafood basket was crispy and satisfying, and the cheesy dip with pita bread was incredible. Everything looked just as good as it tasted, and the portions were generous. The staff was friendly, the setting was beautiful, and the entire experience felt fun and welcoming. This is definitely a must-visit spot if you’re in Panama City Beach and want great food with an island atmosphere. I’ll definitely be back!
• SA

  Sara Allen

  6 days ago
  1.0
  Our experience at Runaway was nothing short of a series of unfortunate events. My family and I had planned a visit to witness a stunning sunset, savor delicious food, and enjoy exceptional service during our last night of vacation. Regrettably, we only managed to experience one of those things—the breathtaking sunset view. The service, however, was nothing short of appalling and completely ruined the entire evening. While our server was friendly when we occasionally caught sight of him, the wait for drinks, ordering, and food was excessively long. It took an eternity for our drinks to arrive, and the order for food was incorrect when we finally got it. To make matters worse, we had to wait even longer for a single refill. Let’s not even mention the wait on sauces we got charged for. Adding insult to injury, the mandatory 18% gratuity felt like a total slap in the face, considering the subpar service we received. It was as if the server was aware that there was an automatic tip on our party of six and simply gave up on us. This experience left us deeply disappointed and is likely to be our last visit to Runaway. It was a truly dreadful way to end our vacation, and we won’t be returning anytime soon.
• BC

  Barbara Cadogan

  May 10, 2026
  5.0
  We made our annual sojourn to Panama City Beach for the Seabreeze Jazz Fest. It's always a great trip, but it wouldn't be complete without at least one meal at Runaway Island. The restaurant is on the beach; the view is spectacular. We always opt to sit outside, weather permitting. Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, it did. We had the absolute best server ever. Cody was the most attentive, efficient, friendly young man. His pleasant nature just added to the experience. On top of that, we had the best meal ever. Their salads are huge, and the sweet onion dressing is to die for. We had the special that day (blackened fish, red beans and rice, and hubby had some additional gumbo). The special was...well, special! It was like nothing we had ever had before. So delicious! If you're making a trip to Panama City Beach, we'd recommend adding Runaway Island to your visit. You won't be disappointed!

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