If you would like to go on a ferry to Shell Key with us then pack like you are going to the beach. Towels, sunscreen, sun protective gear, shirts, and towels are all essential. Shell Key Island is a virgin island. Therefore, there are no shops or bathrooms on the island. Make sure you bring water, food, and drinks.
Shell Island Ferry offers 20% discount for groups of 20 and more when you purchase as a whole group.
Shell Island is a great spot to visit for Panama City Beach locals looking for unspoiled white sandy beaches. The island is home to a lot of beautiful beaches and tranquil waters which are perfect for snorkeling or swimming. Many colorful sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fish can be found around the island's waters. Shell Island offers a chance to discover rare species of birds, plants and wildlife by hiking its interior.
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own coolers. Take any drink containers or food packages you may need with you to the Island.
In the early 90's, the Shell Island sandbar south of Pass-a-Grille Beach was joined to form a contiguous island. Pinellas County purchased a lease in 2000 from the State of Florida to build Shell Key (a.k.a. Shell Island) was designated a Wildlife Preserve. Shell Key today is a paradise of white sand in Florida.
• We pick up and drop off approximately 2.2 miles down the island at the State Park docks• We do not drop off behind the Jetty area• It is a nature-preserved part of the island so there are no restrooms, shade, or food available on the island.• Snorkeling and scuba equipment are not available for rent on the island or at any of our store locations.• It will take about 15 minutes to reach our dock at the island.
Shell Island is a local must-see location for Panama City Beach visitors looking for the unspoiled white-sand beach experience. The island offers plenty of beach space and peaceful inshore waters where swimming and snorkeling are great. Colorful tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles are common in the waters around the island. On land, hiking the interior of Shell Island is an opportunity to explore rare coastal plant, bird, and wildlife communities.
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.