Shell Island is a barrier island off Florida's Emerald Coast that has yet to be developed. It extends approximately 7 miles from east-west. It's composed of graceful sand dune, pine hammocks, as well shrub forest. The inland lake houses shorebirds as well as deer. Shell Island is home of many endangered species and coastal wildlife as well as crabs.


It is possible to snorkel at the St. Andrews State Park Pier, or out on Shell Island. You will find habitats from the sandy bottom to the shallow grass flats to rocky faces of jetties. The habitats include tropical fish, crabs, rays, sea turtles, and, if lucky, bottle nose dolphins. Snorkel gear can be rented at the Jetty Store. Or you can get it as part a package with Shuttle tickets on a Shell Island Snorkel Tour.

Shell Island Cruises Yarmouth

Shell Island Cruises Yarmouth


These wild animals are free to roam in their natural habitat and do what they like. They are observant of them as they are and rely on their mood and what they do. Although encounters are quite common, we cannot guarantee them. The laws of The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 2002 and any subsequent amendments are binding on us. We are prohibited from feeding or harassing dolphins and we are very strict about this. Thank you for understanding.

Shell Island Cruises Yurts


Had a great time relaxing on the catamaran, looking out for dolphins and snorkeling and paddle boarding. The staff was great! We saw quite a few dolphins and sting rays as well. Not many fish to see snorkeling, but it was still fun.

Shell Island Cruises Yurts

South Carolina


There is one outstanding thing to do in Panama City Beach Florida. Shell Island is located at the south end of the long stretch condos and resorts that line Panama City Beach’s white sands. It is across from St. Andrews State Park and offers a spectacular slice of Florida coastline for outdoor adventurers as well as beach lovers.

Shell Island Cruises Youtube


Heath, Heath, and their crew were wonderful! They were very accommodating. We had a great day! They deserve a lot more.

Shell Island Cruises Yurts

Shell Island Cruises Virginia


The St. Andrews State Park jetty is a good spot for snorkeling, as well as Shell Island. There are many habitats available, including sand bottoms, shallow grass flats and the rocky faces of the jetties. There are many species of fish and crabs to be seen, as well as rays and, if you're lucky enough, some resident bottle nose dolphins. Renting snorkel equipment at the Jetty Store is an option, as well as purchasing it in a complete package with shuttle tickets on a Shell Island Snorkel Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is usually referred to as a barrier island that separates the waters of St. Andrews Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. But strictly speaking, it is now a peninsula rather than an island. Shell Island was an actual island in the past, right after the St.
 

This island is not as secluded as you see on the pictures and we couldn't find any of the cool shells either. (I understand that it's nature and can't be controlled).

Every year, visitors flock to the white sands of Panama City Beach, and each year they are joined by some 200 different species of shark. Both are drawn to the area's crystal clear waters and abundant sea life. The double sandbar system at Panama City Beach creates a deep water channel close to shore

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!