The natural reserve of St. Andrews State Park, located in Panama City Beach Florida's south-eastern part of the city, includes the Shell Island barrier island (7 miles long). The undeveloped stretch of beach, scrubland and pine hammocks that separate St. Andrews Bay is separated from the Gulf of Mexico's open waters. Shell Island is home to wildlife and marine animals. It's a paradise for beach lovers who want to spend a day in a natural setting far from the condominiums and resorts that line the northern shore.
* We pick us up at the State Park docks and drop them off about 2.2 mi down the island.
The scenic ride to Shell Island takes just a few seconds and passengers are dropped off in the peaceful cove next Shell Island Ferry.
This service is currently unavailable. Shell Island Ferry provides transportation services. A concession boat is also available during summer from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is the only concessional service on the island.
It takes just a few minutes to ride up to Shell Island. Passengers are dropped off at the quiet cove behind Shell Island Ferry. This is a great spot for children, and only a short distance from the Gulf of Mexico beachesfront.
You can take the ferry to Shell Key along with us if you pack as if you are spending the day on the beach. You will need sunscreen, towels, sun protection hats, shirts, and other gear. Shell Key is a beautiful island. There is no bathroom on the island. Bring water, food, and drink.
The Shell Island Ferry offers the fastest, most convenient, and safest way to reach Shell Island. Book Now to Save Time on Your Day!
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.
Go Where the Dolphins are
Shell Island is 7 miles of incredible beach bliss located across the water from Saint Andrew's Park. This natural wonder is one of your best bets for finding and swimming with dolphins in Panama City Beach.
You may arrive anytime between 8.00am and 8.00pm (9.00pm on Fridays) no admittance will be given outside of these times. Sites must be vacated by 3.00pm on the day of departure, if you wish to extend you stay please bring your car pass back to reception to book back in.
Shell Island can only be accessed by boat, and the Shell Island Ferry is the easiest, safest, and quickest way for visitors to reach Shell Island.