Shell Island is only accessible by boat. The Shell Island Ferry makes it easy, safest and fastest for visitors to get to Shell Island. The Shell Island Ferry is the official Island Ferry and has been transporting guests between the mainland of Canada and Shell Island for many decades.


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.

What is the number 1 beach in Florida


Start and finish your Shell Key adventure at Fort De Soto. This historic military outpost was built during the Spanish American War and is listed on the "National Register of Historic Places". It's Pinellas County’s largest park. Fort De Soto Park covers 1,136 acres and five interconnected islands. The fort still has 12 inch rifled mortars as well as two British breech-loading 6-inch Armstrong rapid fire guns. Fort De Soto is the most popular beach in America.

What is the number 1 beach in Florida
Shell Island Ferry Hours

Shell Island Ferry Hours


Shell Island has no public restrooms. There is no trash removal company. Island visitors are required to take any trash they bring with them to the Island.

Ferry


Take a ferry ride with us to Shell Key. Pack like you're on the beach. Sunscreen, towels, bathing suits and sun protective hats are essential. Shell Key is an unspoiled island. It doesn't have a toilet or shop so bring water and food.

What's the prettiest beach in Florida

What's the prettiest beach in Florida


The Shell Island Ferry offers the fastest, most convenient, and safest way to reach Shell Island. Book Now to Save Time on Your Day!

What do you do if a shark circles you


Shell Island Ferry is family owned and operated since 1928. We are the only official ferry service to and from Egmont Key and Shell Key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shell Island is seven miles of undeveloped scenery between the Gulf and St. Andrew Bay. At one point, Shell Island was inhabited by Native Americans, Spanish Settlers, and even pirates.

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.
 

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.

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.