About St. Andrew’s State Park & Shell Island
Among the many things to do in Panama City Beach Florida, there is one standout that should not be missed. At the far south end of the long stretch of resort hotels and condominiums lining the white sands of Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park offers a surprisingly pristine slice of Florida coastline to beach lovers and outdoor adventurers.
The Park is situated along miles of sugar-sand coastline that is consistently rated as America’s best beach. St. Andrews State Park covers 1200 acres and offers boating, camping, swimming and water sports, fishing, hiking, and bird/wildlife watching. It is also the headquarters of the Shell Island Ferry, the official water transport service to one of the star attractions in Panama City Beach: Shell Island.
The Shell Island Ferry is the safest, quickest, and easiest way to reach Shell Island. The Ferry is also your connection to shelling and Shell Island Snorkel Tours, kayak rentals and Ferry ticket packages, Panama City Beach dolphin tours, and more.
Shell Island is an undeveloped 7-mile long barrier island and beach that makes up the southern reach of St. Andrews State Park. Accessed via private boat or the official Shell Island Ferry, the island is a local must-see location for visitors who want the pristine beach experience. Swimming and snorkeling are great. Hiking inland on the island offers the opportunity to explore rare Florida coastal plants, bird, and wildlife communities in their natural condition.
*Snorkel equipment is available for rent at the pier and jetty stores.
