Shell Island is a great spot to visit for Panama City Beach locals looking for unspoiled white sandy beaches. The island is home to a lot of beautiful beaches and tranquil waters which are perfect for snorkeling or swimming. Many colorful sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fish can be found around the island's waters. Shell Island offers a chance to discover rare species of birds, plants and wildlife by hiking its interior.


Shell Island Ferry has operated since 1928. It is family-owned and managed. We are the official ferry service from and to Egmont Key and Shell Key.

Shell Island Ferry 5c


Shell Key is also home to a large nature preserve. Guests are restricted from half the island, which allows for the turtles and seabirds to enjoy a section unaffected beach. This area is home countless nesting birds and nesting tortles.

Shell Island Ferry 5c
Shell Island Ferry 6d

Shell Island Ferry 6d


Any shells with no living creatures inside can be kept. For empty shells that aren't broken, you can snorkel or go knee-deep in the water away from the beach landing and main boat landing.

Service


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.

Hammocks

Hammocks


This is a unique experience! The ferry boat operates every day in spring and summer and almost every day in autumn and winter. The journey to the island takes around twenty minutes. You have great chances of seeing dolphins, sea turtles and manatees. Seabirds are often seen on the boat ride from Shell Key to the island.

Shell Island Ferry 5b


Shell Key offers a camping adventure for those who love to camp! All you need for an unforgettable night is a "camper" ferry tickets, a Shell Key camping permit and all your camping gear. This is an amazing opportunity to camp on a small island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shell Island is technically only an island at high tide, and although the land is privately owned, the footpaths across it are open to the public.

Shell Island is on the west coast of Wales about 7 miles north of Barmouth. There is a road leading to there that you drive on, but at certain high tides the sea covers the road.

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!