There is always the possibility of a dolphin sighting during the Ferry ride, and you may even see some dolphins while snorkeling around Shell Island. However, these are wild dolphins in their natural habitat and we do not offer planned dolphin encounters. For a good chance to see dolphins, check out our Panama City Beach Dolphin Tours.


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.

Panama City Boat


Yes, you can bring your own coolers and beach chairs. You should bring your own beverage containers and food packets when you leave the island.

Panama City Boat
Can you take a caravan to Shell Island

Can you take a caravan to Shell Island


The Shell Island Ferry provides the fastest, easiest, and most reliable way to reach Shell Island. Save time and book now to save money!

Shell Island Ferry 401


The natural preserve of St. Andrews State Park is located at the southern end of Panama City Beach Florida. It includes a section of Shell Island, a barrier island that measures 7 miles long. This stretch of undeveloped white sand beach, coastal scrubland and pine hammocks is what separates St. Andrew Bay, Florida, from the Gulf of Mexico. 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.

Shell Island Ferry Yacht Club

Shell Island Ferry Yacht Club


Panama City Beach is home to the undeveloped Shell Island beaches, which are a major attraction. To spend a day in Shell Island, take the Shell Island Ferry.

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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.

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.