You can keep any shells you do not believe to have living creatures in them. You can find intact shells by snorkeling and wading below the boat landing or beach areas.

Why is St. Andrews State Park closed


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.

Why is St. Andrews State Park closed
Shell Island Shuttle Discount

Shell Island Shuttle Discount


At the southernmost tip of Panama City Beach Florida is the natural preserve St. Andrews State Park. This park includes a 7-mile-long barrier island called Shell Island. This undeveloped stretch of beach, coast scrubland, pine hammocks and white sand separates St. Andrew Bay form the open waters of 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 Shuttle St Andrews State Park


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.

Shell Island Ferry Outer Banks

Shell Island Ferry Outer Banks


Shell Key is also home to a large nature preserve. Guests are restricted from half the island, which allows for the turtles and seabirds to enjoy a section unaffected beach. This area is home countless nesting birds and nesting tortles.

How Far Is Shell Island From Panama City Beach


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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shell Island is technically only an island at high tide, and although the land is privately owned, the footpaths across it are open to the public.

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!

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. As the official Island Ferry, the Shell Island Ferry has been ferrying guests between the mainland and Shell Island for many years.

Shell Island is on the west coast of Wales about 7 miles north of Barmouth. There is a road leading to there that you drive on, but at certain high tides the sea covers the road.