Shell Key is also a large nature preserve – nearly half of the island is blocked to guests, allowing the native seabirds and sea turtles a section of undisturbed beach. This nature preserve area is home to tons of nesting birds and nesting turtles.
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 Key offers an overnight camping experience for campers! You will need a ferry ticket to "camper" Shell Key and a permit from Shell Key for camping. All you have to do is pack your tent and gear for an amazing night under the stars. This is an incredible opportunity to camp out on a remote island.
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.
Unfortunately, this service is not currently available. In addition to providing transportation services, Shell Island Ferry also runs a concession vessel on the island in the summer season (from Memorial Day through Labor Day). This is the island's only concession facility.
Shell Key is great for swimming and shelling. Shell Key is also home of a large nature reserve, where half of the island has been blocked off to allow native seabirds an area of unspoiled beach. Have fun and sun!
For camping enthusiasts, we offer an overnight experience on Shell Key! All you need is your “camper” ferry ticket, a camping permit from Shell Key, and all your camping gear to have an epic night under the stars! This is an unbelievably unique opportunity to camp out on a secluded island.
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.
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.
About an hour drive
Shell Island is an actual island in the St Andrews Bay off of Panama City Beach, about an hour drive from Destin.