The pristine beaches of undeveloped Shell Island are a top attraction in the Panama City Beach area. You will want to spend some time on the Island, and the official Shell Island Shuttle is the safest, fastest, and most convenient way to get there.
America’s Most Beautiful Beach
A visit to Shell Island is a must on your list of things to do in Panama City Beach. This unspoiled stretch of natural barrier island is a local favorite and is one of the best beaches in Florida. Shell Island is the southern part of St. Andrews State Park, and the Shell Island Shuttle is the official water transportation provider for the park. The Shuttle is the quickest, safest way to get out to Shell Island.
Shell Island Shuttle tickets are available at the St. Andrews State Park Pier Store during the summer high season. Park at the store, take the free bus down to the Marina, and board the Shuttle. Fell free to bring coolers, beach chairs, water toys, and other accessories. The run over to Shell Island takes just a few minutes and you will be dropped off in calm water behind the Shell Island Jetty just a short walk from the main beach on the Gulf of Mexico.
You can stay one hour or all day as long as you catch the last Shuttle off the Island. The shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 9 a.m to 5 p.m, 7 days a week during the summer season and every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 7 days a week during the spring and fall. All Shuttle schedules are weather and water conditions permitting.
Enjoy Unspoiled Natural Coastline
Once on Shell Island, you will find almost 7 miles of pristine white sand beach with no human development whatsoever. The emerald waters of the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve along the Gulf Coast, natural grass flats lining the inland side of the island on St. Andrew Bay, a small lake, and a natural sand dune and coastal scrub environment recall the Florida Panhandle Coast of 100 years ago.
A day visit to Shell Island will be an unforgettable highlight of your Panama City Beach vacation. Our experienced shuttle boat captains carry you across the scenic St. Andrews Pass shipping channel in complete comfort and safety. You can relax, enjoy the ride, and be on the lookout for our local bottlenose dolphins. If you would like to enjoy some water sports out on the Island, snorkeling gear and kayak rental packages are available.
Respect the Beauty
Shell Island is a completely natural environment. There are no facilities at all, and the Island is home to many rare and endangered animals as well as nesting sea turtles. Everything you bring to the Island must be carried back with you when you leave. Please do not litter, and do your part to preserve the wonder of Shell Island for the next guests. Welcome aboard the Shell Island Shuttle! Enjoy your visit to Shell Island and thank you for Supporting the Florida State Park system.
