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


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.

Park

Park


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.

Fort De Soto Park


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.

Fort De Soto Park

Shell Island Cruises June 2019


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.

Shell Island Cruises Key West


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.

Fort De Soto Park

Where is the best snorkeling in Florida


We are well-known for our Rum Punch. However, we also have beer and wine on hand. All our snacks are under $2.00. The ship has a bathroom. Your Island Time sailing adventure will be a memorable one with our experienced crew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shell Island has a fascinating amount of local wildlife including dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the lake on the island, marsh rabbits, racoons and more.

The waters around Shell Island are home to a large group of bottlenose dolphins. You can encounter these amazing marine mammals at home in their natural habitat on one of our Panama City Beach Dolphin Tours.

Shell Island is seven miles of undeveloped scenery between the Gulf and St. Andrew Bay. At one point, Shell Island was inhabited by Native Americans, Spanish Settlers, and even pirates.

Shell Island is a nature preserve with no restrooms or any other visitor facilities such as trash receptacles, picnic tables, or shade pavilions. There is no trash removal service. Island visitors are asked to be responsible and take everything they bring to the Island with them when they leave.