Visitor’s Guide: Shell Island, Panama City Beach

Photo by @yourbestbeachlife

If you're looking for one of the best travel destinations in Florida, look no further than Panama City Beach. This world-famous city was recently ranked as one of the Top 25 beaches in the United States by TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice Awards. And if you're looking for a place to spend a day in the sun and sand, Shell Island is a must-visit spot. This unique island is one of the most popular spots in Panama City Beach, and there are plenty of reasons why.

Let us show you what to expect during a day trip to Shell Island. So put on your sunscreen and get ready for a day of fun in the sun!

Photo by visitpanamacitybeach.com

Discover Shell Island

Shell Island is located just off the coast of Panama City Beach, and it's a popular spot for visitors who are looking to get away from the crowds. The island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, which make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun. The island's beaches stretch for 7 miles around its perimeter. Visitors will experience a true natural wonder of undeveloped beaches, coastal dunes, and maritime forests.

One of the best highlights of traveling to Shell Island is that there are no shops, or restaurants, or even concession stands, restroom facilities or picnic areas... it is truly  a place to get away from it all. So, come prepared with your own food, drinks, and beach supplies.

Flora and Fauna

True to its name, Shell Island is home to many types of indigenous seashells such as sand dollars, moon snails, conch shells, pin shells, periwinkles and olive shells. The Island also has a large extension of coral reefs. These reefs provide a vital habitat for marine life and are a popular spot for snorkelers and divers. You will find many types of fish such as groupers, redfish, snappers, grunts and amberjacks.

Shell Island is also known for its diverse wildlife, which can be seen roaming the island's beaches and marshes. You'll likely see dolphins swimming in the waters around the island, and you may even spot a manatee or two. The island's forests are home to deer, crabs and an abundance of birds, including sandpipers, egrets, herons, and pelicans. So be sure to bring your camera along, as you're likely to see some amazing creatures during your visit.

Things to Do and Activities

Shell Island is a very popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are plenty of areas where you can explore the island's coral reefs and see a variety of marine life.

You can also rent water sports gear & pontoon boats for an exciting and adventurous day on the water, or go meet bottlenose dolphins on a Dolphin Tour.

Shell Island is also a great place for fishing enthusiasts. The waters around the island are teeming with fish, and there are plenty of spots where you can drop your line and try to catch dinner. The island is home to a variety of fish, including groupers, redfish, trout, flounder, and catfish.

In addition, Shell Island is home to some of the best bird-watching in Florida. There are plenty of areas on the island where you can see a variety of birds, including sandpipers, egrets, herons, and pelicans.

Finally, if you're looking for a place to relax, Shell Island is also the perfect spot. Bring your own beach umbrella and lounge chair so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view of its pristine beaches.

How To Get There

Shell Island is only accessible by boat, though it is easily accessible from Panama City Beach. You can either take a short ferry or shuttle ride from the St. Andrews State Park Marina or catch a pontoon boat from one of the local tour companies that offer day trips to Shell Island.

It is located about seven miles offshore, just across St. Andrews State Park and the trip usually takes about 20 minutes, so make sure to pack everything you'll need such as your sunscreen, swimsuit, and a towel.

What To Expect

If you're looking for a relaxing day on the beach, Shell Island is the perfect spot. The island is small enough that you can easily walk from one end to the other, and the beaches are wide and spacious.

Nonetheless, the island can get crowded on weekends and during the summer months. This can be fun if you like larger crowds and plenty of people to socialize with. But if you're looking for a more relaxing experience, we recommend visiting during the week or in the offseason.

Photo by visitpanamacitybeach.com

Summary

So there you have it - everything you need to know about Shell Island in Panama City Beach. If you're looking for a unique and peaceful spot to spend a day in the sun, Shell Island is definitely worth a visit. We hope this guide has helped you plan your next trip to this beautiful island. Happy travels!