Shell Key Island Ferry

Shell Island Tours Florida


• We pick up and drop off approximately 2.2 miles down the island at the State Park docks• We do not drop off behind the Jetty area• It is a nature-preserved part of the island so there are no restrooms, shade, or food available on the island.• Snorkeling and scuba equipment are not available for rent on the island or at any of our store locations.• It will take about 15 minutes to reach our dock at the island.


The natural preserve of St. Andrews State Park is located at the southern end of Panama City Beach Florida. It includes a section of Shell Island, a barrier island that measures 7 miles long. This stretch of undeveloped white sand beach, coastal scrubland and pine hammocks is what separates St. Andrew Bay, Florida, from the Gulf of Mexico. 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 Tours In Panama City Beach


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.

Shell Island Tours In Panama City Beach
Shell Island Ferry 800

Shell Island Ferry 800


The natural preserve of St. Andrews State Park, located in Panama City Beach Florida, includes a part of Shell Island (a barrier island measuring 7 miles). This stretch of undeveloped beach, coast scrubland and pine hammocks seperates St. Andrew Bay with the Gulf of Mexico. Shell Island is a refuge for wildlife, marine mammals, and beach lovers seeking a day away from the condominiums or resorts along the shore to the north.

Shell Island Ferry 802


Not available at this time. Along with offering transportation services, the Shell Island Ferry operates a concession boat on the island during the summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is the only concession facility on the island.

Fort De Soto Park

Fort De Soto Park


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.

Crab Island


This unique trip is not available elsewhere. If you are looking for a way to travel to an uninhabited barrier islands with white sand beaches, warm water and shelling galore then our ferry to Shell Key is the best choice for you and your loved ones. It departs from Fort De Soto's boat ramp. In the spring and the summer, our ferry boat is available almost every day of the year. The trip to the island takes approximately twenty minutes. There are great opportunities to spot manatees and sea turtles. The green ferry boat takes us to Shell Key and we often spot seabirds.

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!