PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (AP) - The first family is headed to the Florida Panhandle this weekend to tout the oil-free beaches and sparkling turquoise waters.

But the Obamas aren't flying into welcoming political turf.

Panama City Beach and surrounding Bay County is a Republican juggernaut that voted overwhelming for John McCain in 2008. A billboard that went up this summer on a major road outside of town demands "Show us the birth certificate." It's a dig against Obama by those who question whether he is a U.S. citizen.

No signs welcoming the first family were on the beach earlier in the week.

Republican State Rep. Jimmy Patronis of Panama City says the Obamas will be welcomed for the efforts to boost tourism in the region.