Shell Island Ferry Times

Shell Island Shuttle St Pete


Shell Key is also a large protected area. Nearly half of the island is off limits to guests. This allows the seabirds, sea turtles, and native seabirds to enjoy a stretch of undisturbed beaches. This area is home for tons of nesting bird and nesting turtle species.

Shell Island Boat Rentals Panama City Beach Fl 32408 —


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.

Shell Island Ferry Panama City Beach

Where is the best place to find shells in Florida


This is an exclusive trip! If you're looking to visit an uninhabited barrier island with warm water, white sand and shelling, the ferry to Shell Key departs from Fort De Soto boat ramp. The ferry boat runs every day during the spring and summer, and almost every day in fall and winter. It takes about twenty minutes to reach the island. This ride offers many chances to see dolphins, turtles, manatees, and more! On the ferry boat, we often see seabirds as we travel to Shell Key.

Where is the best place to find shells in Florida
Do great white sharks come close to shore

Do great white sharks come close to shore


There is no time limit on your stay, but you must catch the last Ferry off the Island at the end of the day. Please be sure to check the daily schedule when purchasing your Ferry ticket.

Is Shell Island actually an island


Shell Island is considered a nature preserve and has no toilets or other facilities for visitors such as shade pavilions, trash receptacles, picnic table, or other amenities. There is no trash pickup service. Island visitors are requested to be responsible and bring everything they have to the Island with you when they leave.

Barrier Island

Barrier Island


The 7-mile-long barrier island Shell Island is located at the south-eastern tip of Panama City Beach Florida's natural reserve, St. Andrews State Park. This undeveloped stretch of white sandy beach, coastal scrubland, pine hammocks, and sandbars seperates St. Andrews Bay form the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Island is an oasis for wildlife, marine mammals, and beach lovers who seek a day away from the condominiums, resorts, and condos along the coast.

Shell Island Ferry 2018


Shell Island is a popular spot for Panama City Beach tourists looking for unspoiled white sand beaches. It has plenty of beaches and calm waters, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. In the surrounding waters, you will find many tropical fish, dolphins, as well as sea turtles. Walking the interior of Shell Island on land is a great way to see rare coastal birds and plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sand dollars, moon snails, conch shells, pin shells, periwinkles, whelk and olive shells are just a few of the indigenous seashells found here. And, as long as there are no creatures living in them, there is no limit to how many of these one-of-a-kind souvenirs you can take home with you

Once you get there it is all worth it, as it is the most beautiful water I've ever seen. It is like you are swimming in a pool it is so crystal clear. We didn't know what to expect with this so we went planning to spend a few hours on the island. Come expecting to spend all day!

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.

Visitors to your pitch may come on site, after paying the daily admission fee, £10.00 per car, between 8am till 8pm. During busy times when the site is full no day visitors will be admitted on to site.