Shell Island is located in the Gulf of Mexico. Split charters can be used to snorkel or encounter dolphins.
St. Andrew Bay's dolphins can be seen at any time of the day. They are wild animals and it is hard to predict when they will be best. Dolphin behavior is affected by many factors, including the weather, tides cycles, availability of prey, water temperatures and temperature. Dolphins are most likely to be seen in calm, clear waters when the sun is out. Feeding activities usually take place on an outgoing tide. Panama City Beach Dolphin Tours is a great option. They are on the water almost every day of year.
St. Andrew Bay is home of one of the largest populations of bottlenose dolphins in the world. These are the famous gray dolphins most people know from TV, movies and marine parks. Although the dolphins of St. Andrew Bay live in wild environments, they are used to humans and boaters often find themselves amongst a group of feeding, swimming and playing dolphins.
Florida law forbids dolphins from swimming or touching them. This is to ensure their well-being. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission has officers on the water to enforce these rules. You may have the opportunity to see dolphins from your boat, which will give you a great view and excellent photo opportunities. You can have wild dolphin encounters with dolphins by taking one of our Shell Island Snorkel Tours. Dolphins often swim close to snorkelers.
Let's have a look at some top Shell Island dolphin tour options for visitors looking to experience dolphins in the wild.
A three-hour Shell Island Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour makes Panama City Beach the best place to be!
Shell Island Dolphin Tours Holmes Beach
If the weather is safe and clear, you may have the opportunity to swim and snorkel among dolphins. This means that we might get to go into the water near the dolphins. It does not necessarily mean that they will allow you to touch them. They are wild dolphins, and have their own mind. Sometimes they will come within 3 feet of you. Other times they will swim away and you won't be able to see them while in the water. We do not feed, harass or harass dolphins. We don't guarantee that you will swim with dolphins. We believe that promising swimming with dolphins is not ethical. We welcome wild dolphins into our lives on their terms. All boat tours are conducted in accordance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act. We won't swim with dolphins that are swimming in dangerous areas. This is entirely up to the captain.
What should you bring? The majority of what you need is available on board. However, you can bring any item you like. If the temperature drops below 80 degrees we recommend bringing a towel, sunglasses with polarization, and a sweater or jacket. A breeze keeps it cooler on an open boat. You are also allowed to bring your own snacks and drinks! No alcohol allowed
Relax and enjoy as your USCG Captain/tour guide takes to the water to show you some amazing sunsets. Enjoy your favorite drink and snacks as you enjoy the evening.
Florida law bans dolphin swimming, touching and feeding. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officers monitor the waters to ensure that these rules and regulations are being followed. You might be able to spot dolphins close enough to the boat that you have a wonderful view and great opportunity for photos. Shell Island Snorkel Tours may be the best option for you if wild dolphins are in the water. They often swim near snorkelers.
Our photos section and social media offer a glimpse into the wildlife we might see. Every image on our website and social media was taken while on our tour. We attempt to update our social channels often with new pictures and frequently take pictures so you can keep up to date and see what we are currently seeing. Our Instagram and Facebook pages will show you what we have seen over the last few days or weeks. They can be found at the bottom. It is not unusual to see turtles, sharks or dolphins.
If you decide to go this route, be sure to ask our team to point out dolphin hotspot areas on the map so that you know where to encounter
Your trip on super-fast boats is designed to help you find and visit the dolphins. Shell Island Dolphin Tours can only carry 6 passengers on some boats and 7-15 people on other boats (children of any age included). Shell Island Dolphin Tours can quickly get you on the water wearing your snorkel gear without the disruptions and splashing that large groups often cause. Your captain will show you the best way to interact with dolphins. Swim with Dolphins. We'll take you into the water before the dolphins arrive. So the dolphins will come to you rather than swim away. Find wildlife like birds of prey, pelicans underwater creatures and herons. Shells and Sand Dollars are found on Shell Island. Enjoy snorkeling in the flats of seagrass and exploring St. Andrews Bay, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
It is the ultimate Panama City Beach must-do!
We hired a boat to go out to the shell island. Although there was plenty of seaweed, the area was stunning for the breathtaking views.
Morning Dolphins are best seen in the morning, when they are feeding. It is possible to go out in the evening before the sun sets. Dolphins can be seen at any hour of the day. However, they are more easily spotted when there is less traffic.
What is the best time to see dolphins in Florida? The best time to see dolphins in Florida is from May through August. You are most likely to see them between 10 and noon and then again from 2 p.m. until it gets dark.