* We pick you up and drop you off at the State Park docks about 2.2 miles down the isle.
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.
In the early 1990’s, the sandbar just south of Pass-a-Grille Beach known as Shell Island joined with its neighboring island to the south to form one contiguous island. In 2000, Pinellas County acquired a lease from the State of Florida to establish Shell Key (a.k.a. Shell Island) as a Wildlife Preserve and today, Shell Key is a pristine white sand strip of Florida paradise.
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 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.
Shell Key is home to an overnight experience for camping enthusiasts! For an unforgettable night in the stars, you will only need your Shell Key "camper" ferry ticket and a Shell Key camping permit. This is a unique chance to camp on a private island.
This item is currently not available. Your own umbrellas are allowed. We have beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent. There are also options to purchase sun block or other accessories, as well as drinks and snacks.
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!