Hathaway Inn

Hathaway Inn is an independent, two-story hotel with 82 rooms at 5126 West Highway 98, at the western edge of Panama City just east of the Hathaway Bridge that leads to Panama City Beach. It sits right beside the Gulf Coast State College and Florida State University Panama City campuses, both about a two minute walk away.

The waterfront is close as well. St. Andrews Bay is about an eight minute walk, and Port Panama City is roughly six minutes on foot. Crossing the bridge puts guests on Panama City Beach in a few minutes, with Shipwreck Island Waterpark and St. Andrews State Park nearby and Pier Park within about 12 miles. Downtown Panama City and the St. Andrews waterfront are a short drive east.

Rooms are straightforward, at about 260 square feet, with flat screen TVs with satellite channels, microwaves, mini fridges and coffee and tea setups. A free breakfast buffet is served in the mornings, and there is an on-site bar for a drink in the evening. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a small fitness room, guest laundry and a meeting room for up to 20 people.

Wi-Fi and self parking are free, and the front desk is staffed around the clock. Pets are not allowed, though service animals are welcome. Because the hotel is on US 98, it is easy to reach from both directions, and the campus sports venues are close by for visiting teams.

Guest reviews highlight clean rooms, friendly staff and a relaxing pool, and note that the property is a basic budget stay rather than a resort. Hathaway Inn suits parents visiting students at the two colleges, visiting sports teams, port and shipyard workers and beach travelers who would rather save on lodging and drive across the bridge each day. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is about 40 minutes away by car.