On the south-eastern end of Panama City Beach Florida, the natural reserve of St. Andrews State Park includes the 7-mile long barrier island known as Shell Island. This undeveloped stretch of white sand beach, coastal scrubland, and pine hammocks separate St. Andrews Bay from the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Island is a haven for wildlife, marine animals, and beach lovers looking for a day in a pristine natural setting away from the resorts and condominiums that line the beach to the north.


The natural reserve of St. Andrews State Park, located in Panama City Beach Florida's south-eastern part of the city, includes the Shell Island barrier island (7 miles long). The undeveloped stretch of beach, scrubland and pine hammocks that separate St. Andrews Bay is separated from the Gulf of Mexico's open waters. 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.

Where is Shell Island near


You can start and end your Shell Key adventure from historic Fort De Soto. It is Pinellas County’s biggest park and a military outpost built during the Spanish American War. Fort De Soto Park is 1,136 acres with five interconnected islands. You can still see the fort's 12-inch rifled mortars, and two British breechloading 6-inch Armstrong rapidfire guns. Fort De Soto was voted the best beach in America.

Where is Shell Island near
Local Must-see Location

Local Must-see Location


At this moment, it is not available. Bring your own. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas. The store also sells sunblock and other accessories.

Shell Island Ferry Jet Ski Rental


Shell Island is a protected area of nature. There are no facilities for toilets or visitors like shade pavilions, trash cans, picnic tables, and trash receptacles. There is not a trash removal service. Island visitors are asked not to bring trash to the Island and to make sure they take it with them.

Shell Island Ferry Usa

Shell Island Ferry Usa


Shell Island is only accessible by boat. The Shell Island Ferry makes it easy, safest and fastest to get there. The official Shell Island Ferry service for St. Andrews State Park has been operating since many years.

Fort Desoto


Shell Island is a great spot to visit for Panama City Beach locals looking for unspoiled white sandy beaches. The island is home to a lot of beautiful beaches and tranquil waters which are perfect for snorkeling or swimming. Many colorful sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fish can be found around the island's waters. Shell Island offers a chance to discover rare species of birds, plants and wildlife by hiking its interior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Go Where the Dolphins are

Shell Island is 7 miles of incredible beach bliss located across the water from Saint Andrew's Park. This natural wonder is one of your best bets for finding and swimming with dolphins in Panama City Beach.

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.

There is no limit to the activities you can experience at or on Shell Island! You can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, go kayaking, sunbathe, hunt seashells, go hiking, have a picnic, and more!