St. Andrews Shell Island Adventures

Among the many things to do in Panama City Beach Florida, there is one standout that should not be missed. At the far south end of the long stretch of resort hotels and condominiums lining the white sands of Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park offers a surprisingly pristine slice of Florida coastline to beach lovers and outdoor adventurers.

The Park is situated along miles of sugar-sand coastline that is consistently rated as America's best beach. St. Andrews State Park covers 1200 acres and offers boating, camping, swimming and watersports, fishing, hiking, and bird/wildlife watching. It is also the headquarters of the Shell Island Ferry, the official water transport service to one of the star attractions in Panama City Beach: Shell Island.

The Shell Island Ferry is the safest, quickest, and easiest way to reach Shell Island. The Ferry is also your connection to snorkel gear rentals and Shell Island Snorkel Tours, kayak rental and Ferry ticket packages, Panama City Beach dolphin tours, and more. Our Sunset Dolphin Cruise is one of the most popular cruises of all the beaches.

Shell Island is an undeveloped 7-mile long barrier island and beach that makes up the southern reach of St. Andrews State Park. Accessed via private boat or the official Shell Island Ferry, the island is a local must-see location for visitors who want the pristine beach experience. Swimming and snorkeling are great. Hiking inland on the island offers the opportunity to explore rare Florida coastal plants, bird, and wildlife communities in their natural condition.

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DIRECTIONS TO THE SHELL ISLAND SHUTTLE: At the St. Andrews State Park entrance, the Shell Island Shuttle Office will be just to your right at 4607 State park Lane. During the summer season, shuttle tickets are available at the Pier Store on State Park Circle, the first road to the right about 250 feet inside the Park entrance. Park in the Pier Store lot and ride the Shuttle Bus to St. Andrews State Park Marina where you will board the Shell Island Shuttle.
DIRECTIONS TO PANAMA CITY BEACH BOAT RENTALS: If you would like to rent a pontoon boat, enter the Park and continue on State Park Lane as it curves to the right. You will reach a 4-way intersection where the Camp Store is located. Turn left down to the Marina and you will find the office that handles Shell Island pontoon boat rentals and kayak rentals as well. Our pontoon boats are very popular, so to ensure a spot and also for convenience, be sure to reserve your pontoon boat online well ahead of your planned visit.

PANAMA CITY SUNSET DOLPHIN-WATCHING CRUISE:Unforgettable Views and Wildlife

Experience the beauty of a Panama City sunset with our unforgettable sunset cruise. Take in the stunning views of St. Andrews Bay and the emerald coast from our double-deck motor catamaran, while searching for wild dolphins. Our 90-minute cruise is the perfect way to unwind after a day at the beach or campground, with cold refreshments such as beer and wine available onboard.

ECO-TENT RENTALS

Our new eco-tents are the perfect destination for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the St. Andrews State Park’s experience. Guests can now enjoy many modern lodging luxuries right here in the middle of the park. Enjoy electricity, air conditioning, a queen bed, a twin sized cot, and many classic camping amenities with water views, all at Panama City Beach’s latest and greatest glamping location. Eco-tents are located in the campground at St. Andrews State Park, on sites 15, 16, & 17.

THE BEST PANAMA CITY BEACH KAYAK RENTALS

St. Andrews Adventures’ kayak rentals are the best because we are the only Panama City Beach kayak rental company operating directly at St. Andrews State Park. All of our kayaks are sit-on-top designs that are more stable for first-time kayakers. Life jackets and paddles are included in your rental.

Kayaks are perfect for exploring the inland shoreline of the park, exploring pristine beaches, and watching for wildlife onshore as you paddle quietly by. Kids love learning to paddle, splashing and playing in the protected, shallow waters of the St. Andrews Jetty.
 

PADDLEBOARDING BASICS

Our boards are designed for beginners or casual paddlers. You can begin in a kneeling or even sitting position. Then, once you get the feel of the craft and start catching your balance, go from your knees to your feet. Find the center of balance on the board and stabilize there, then work on making smooth, even strokes with the paddle.

Learning can be a lot of fun at St. Andrews State Park, given the protection of the jetty wall and lagoon.