You have no time limits, but must get off the Island by the end the day. Check the Ferry schedule before purchasing your ticket.
Unfortunately, this service is not currently available. In addition to providing transportation services, Shell Island Ferry also runs a concession vessel on the island in the summer season (from Memorial Day through Labor Day). This is the island's only concession facility.
In the early 1990s, the Shell Island Sandbar (south of Pass-a-Grille Beach) joined with the neighboring island to form one contiguous Island. Pinellas County was granted a lease by the State of Florida in order to establish Shell Key (a.k.a. Shell Island) was declared a Wildlife Preserve in 2000. Shell Key is now a Florida paradise on a strip of pure white sand.
At the southern end of Panama City Beach Florida lies the natural reserve St. Andrews State Park. It includes the Shell Island, a barrier island that measures 7 miles in length. This stretch of undeveloped white sand beach, coastal scrubland and pine hammocks is what separates St. Andrews Bay, Florida, from the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Island is a sanctuary for marine wildlife and beach-lovers who are looking to enjoy a day at the beach in a beautiful natural setting, far from the condos and resorts to the north.
The fun, scenic ride over to Shell Island takes only a few minutes and passengers are dropped off in the peaceful cove behind Shell Island Ferry, a great play spot for children and just a short walk from the Gulf of Mexico beachfront.
Let the Shell Island Ferry carry you away to a great day on one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. Buy your Ferry tickets right here online, or visit us at Adventures at 313 Brynn Ct,Panama City Beach, FL 32408. The Ferry is also your source for water-sports packages including snorkeling equipment and kayak rentals. For more information, give us a call at (850) 756-7533 or drop by our office at 313 Brynn Ct,Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The Ferry ride is always possible to spot dolphins, and snorkeling around Shell Island may bring you closer to them. We do not offer dolphin encounters because these dolphins are wild and in their natural habitat. Check out our Panama City Beach dolphin tours for a great chance to see dolphins.
Snorkeling is safe and easy for people of all ages. One of the best things about Shell Island is that the calm shallow water behind the jetty is the perfect place for first-time snorkelers to try the sport.
When you visit Shell Key, you are essentially in the wilderness. There are no toilets – there is no running water – no trash cans or any other modern conveniences. It is up to you to bring everything you need to survive – and, more importantly – to leave nothing behind except footprints
Shell Island is technically only an island at high tide, and although the land is privately owned, the footpaths across it are open to the public.
Shell Island is a nature preserve with no restrooms or any other visitor facilities such as trash receptacles, picnic tables, or shade pavilions. There is no trash removal service. Island visitors are asked to be responsible and take everything they bring to the Island with them when they leave.