Shell Island Dolphin Cruise

Shell Island Beach Tour


For both novice and expert kayakers, the waters around St. Andrews State Park offer a great place to start. There are plenty of great swimming and snorkeling spots, along with an interesting shoreline. Experiential paddlers might consider crossing to Shell Island or paddling out to the pass to do some sea kayaking. Renting a package that includes a ride in the Shell Island Shuttle and kayaks on Shell Island is the best and most safest way of kayaking on Shell Island.


Shell Island is a barrier island that stretches 7 miles long and a beach that forms the southern portion of St. Andrews State Park. Visitors who are looking for a pristine beach experience can access the island via private boat, or by the Shell Island Shuttle. The island is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Walking inland on the island allows you to see rare Florida birds, plants, and wildlife in their natural state.

Star Island

Star Island


Heath and the crew were fantastic! They took care of everything. We all had a great time! They definitely deserve a big raise.

Kayaks


It is possible to snorkel at the St. Andrews State Park Pier, or out on Shell Island. You will find habitats from the sandy bottom to the shallow grass flats to rocky faces of jetties. The habitats include tropical fish, crabs, rays, sea turtles, and, if lucky, bottle nose dolphins. Snorkel gear can be rented at the Jetty Store. Or you can get it as part a package with Shuttle tickets on a Shell Island Snorkel Tour.

Kayaks

George


Your Panama City Beach vacation isn’t complete until you’ve see the natural and lovely beauty of Shell Island. Contact us today to book your trip and make your vacation one to remember.

Is Shell Island Open To The Public


The Shell Island Cruise Seafari Boat Tour takes you to the Historic Grand Lagoon. You will see a variety wildlife, seashells, and aquatic wonders. You can explore Shell Island by swimming, going shelling, picnicking, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of this island. Make memories that will last a lifetime by booking your Shell Island Cruise Seafari Boat Tour!

Kayaks

Can you swim to Shell Island


The waters around St. Andrews State Park are nice for both beginning and experienced kayakers. There is plenty of interesting shoreline to explore as well as good swimming and snorkeling spots. Experienced paddlers may want to make the crossing to Shell Island or even paddle out the pass for some sea kayaking. The easiest and safest way to try kayaking on Shell Island is to arrange a rental package that includes a ride on the Shell Island Shuttle and kayaks available on Shell Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is usually referred to as a barrier island that separates the waters of St. Andrews Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. But strictly speaking, it is now a peninsula rather than an island. Shell Island was an actual island in the past, right after the St.
 

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 so we went planning to spend a few hours on the island. Come expecting to spend all day!

Though the area boasts an average of 320 days of sunshine per year, late spring, summer and early fall offer some of the warmest air and water temperatures. Plus, by avoiding a visit in March or April, you'll dodge the deluge of college students who descend on the area's ivory sands every year for spring break.

Shell Island has a fascinating amount of local wildlife including dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the lake on the island, marsh rabbits, racoons and more.