Adventure Collective
Explore Pristine Beaches with Shell Island Ferry from Panama City, FL - Panama City

Explore Pristine Beaches with Shell Island Ferry from Panama City, FL

Panama Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; expect leisurely walking on sandy and uneven terrain

Overview

Venture to Shell Island’s untouched shores via the Shell Island Ferry from Panama City, FL. Discover secluded beaches, abundant shells, and wildlife in this pristine barrier island experience just 15 minutes from the mainland.

Panama City Beach, Florida

Shell Island Ferry

Departs Hourly 10AM - 2PM

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Discover the untouched beauty of Shell Island, a 700-acre paradise in Panama City. Enjoy sunbathing, shelling, and exploring pristine sandy beaches. With hourly ferry departures and a scenic tram ride, this unique experience promises relaxation and adventure. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot for this unforgettable getaway.

Experience the pristine beaches of Shell Island. Look for the perfect shell or just soak up the sun!

About

Shell Island is the 700-acre barrier island protecting the waters of St. Andrews Bay in Panama City. Its seaward shoreline is comprised of beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for shelling, sunbathing, and exploring.

Due to high demand, reservations are strongly encouraged to ensure you have a spot on the ferry.

Ticketing is located at the Pier Store (follow signs from the entrance gate). Guests can park right by the Ferry dock to take the Ferry.

Boarding Times

  • Departures from St. Andrews State Park are hourly at the top of the hour (see calendar for current times).
  • Departures from Shell Island are hourly at the bottom of the hour.
  • Returns from Shell Island leave from the State Park dock.

Know Before You Go

  • Guests are welcome to bring their own cooler and refreshments. Snacks and beverages are also available for purchase prior to departure at the Pier Store.
  • Shell Island has been preserved as a primitive island. Restroom facilities are not available on the island. Facilities are available at the boarding location and on the boat.
  • The ferry ride is approximately 15 minutes.
  • We pick up and drop off approximately 2.2 miles down the island at the State Park docks.
  • There is no lifeguard on duty at Shell Island.
  • Picking up or removing shells containing live organisms is strictly prohibited as well as disturbing sea bird or sea turtle nesting areas.
  • St. Andrews State Park & Shell Island are located in Central Time Zone.
  • We do not drop off behind the Jetty.
  • We love dogs, but are sorry to say we cannot allow them on the St. Andrews Adventures Ferry (this policy does NOT inlcude service dogs).

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • A hat
  • Water
  • Cooler & Refreshments

Adventure Tips

Reserve Your Spot Early

Due to high demand, booking your ferry trip in advance is essential to secure your preferred departure time.

Bring Your Own Water and Sunscreen

There are no facilities on the island, so pack sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay comfortable during your visit.

Respect Wildlife and Nesting Areas

Do not disturb sea turtle nests or collect live shells to preserve the island's natural habitat.

Arrive 30 Minutes Before Departure

Plan to arrive early to catch the tram from the Pier Store to the ferry dock smoothly and avoid missing your boat.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Gopher tortoise
  • Least tern

History

Shell Island serves as a natural barrier crucial in protecting St. Andrews Bay, with ongoing conservation efforts since its protection as part of St. Andrews State Park.

Conservation

Visitor access is limited to ferry capacity and strict no-disturbance policies help preserve critical nesting habitats and maintain the island’s natural state.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Panama City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from strong Gulf Coast sun during your beach visit.

summer specific

Hat

Essential

A wide-brimmed hat provides added sun protection while exploring the island.

summer specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated since there are no water sources on the island.

Cooler Bag

Bring chilled refreshments to enjoy during your beach day.