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 also a large nature preserve – nearly half of the island is blocked to guests, allowing the native seabirds and sea turtles a section of undisturbed beach. This nature preserve area is home to tons of nesting birds and nesting turtles.
The Shell Island Ferry is the easiest, safest, and fastest way to get to Shell Island. Book now and save time on the day!
For groups of 20 people or more, the Shell Island Ferry offers a 20% discount on all tickets when you pay as one group.
If you’d like to take a ferry ride to Shell Key with us, pack like you’re spending the day at the beach! Bring sunscreen, towels, bathing suits, sun protective hats, shirts and other gear. Shell Key is a pristine island, so there isn’t a bathroom or any type of shop on the island so make sure to come prepared with a cooler full of water, food and drinks.
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.
(850) 756-7533 or stop by our office located at 313 Brynn Ct,Panama City Beach, FL 32408.
Shell Island Ferry was established in 1928 and is still family-owned and operated. We are the only ferry service that provides official ferry services to and from Egmont Key, Shell Key.
Shell Island can only be accessed by boat, and the Shell Island Ferry is the easiest, safest, and quickest way for visitors to reach Shell Island. As the official Shell Island Ferry service of St. Andrews State Park, the Shell Island Ferry has been ferrying guests between the St. Andrews State Park Marina and Shell Island for many years.
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.
Shell Island is an iconic Panama City Beach location that offers unspoiled white-sand beach experiences. The island has plenty of sandy beaches, and tranquil inshore waters for great snorkeling and swimming. You will see many beautiful tropical fish, turtles, and dolphins in the area. Shell Island's interior can be explored on foot.
You can take the ferry to Shell Key along with us if you pack as if you are spending the day on the beach. You will need sunscreen, towels, sun protection hats, shirts, and other gear. Shell Key is a beautiful island. There is no bathroom on the island. Bring water, food, and drink.
Your stay is unlimited, but you must return to the mainland by the end of each day. When purchasing your Ferry ticket, please make sure you check the daily schedule.
Unfortunately, this service is not currently available. In addition to providing transportation services, Shell Island Ferry also runs a concession vessel on the island in the summer season (from Memorial Day through Labor Day). This is the island's only concession facility.
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 Island is a popular spot for Panama City Beach tourists looking for unspoiled white sand beach experiences. It has plenty of beaches and calm waters, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. In the surrounding waters, you will find many tropical fish, dolphins, as well as sea turtles. Shell Island's interior can be explored by hiking.
The Shell Island Ferry makes it the easiest, most secure, and fastest way for you to reach Shell Island. Save time by booking now!
Your stay is unlimited, but you must return to the mainland by the end of each day. When purchasing your Ferry ticket, please make sure you check the daily schedule.
Unfortunately, not at the moment. You can bring your own. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. In the same store you can buy Ferry tickets, sun block, and other accessories.
For camping enthusiasts, we offer an overnight experience on Shell Key! All you need is your “camper” ferry ticket, a camping permit from Shell Key, and all your camping gear to have an epic night under the stars! This is an unbelievably unique opportunity to camp out on a secluded island.
For groups of 20 people or more, the Shell Island Ferry offers a 20% discount on all tickets when you pay as one group.
About an hour drive
Shell Island is an actual island in the St Andrews Bay off of Panama City Beach, about an hour drive from Destin.
Shell Island can only be accessed by boat, and the Shell Island Ferry is the easiest, safest, and quickest way for visitors to reach Shell Island.
Snorkeling is safe and easy for people of all ages. One of the best things about Shell Island is that the calm shallow water behind the jetty is the perfect place for first-time snorkelers to try the sport.