The ferry to Shell Island from St Andrews State Park offers a quick and scenic way to reach one of Florida’s most unspoilt barrier islands. In around 15 minutes, you’ll swap the busy beaches of Panama City Beach for dunes, wildlife and quiet stretches of white sand.
How to get to Shell Island
The ferry departs from the dock inside St Andrews State Park, about 3 miles east of Panama City Beach in Florida. Park entry fees apply. Boats run hourly in high season, with reduced schedules in spring and autumn. Once into January, there are no Sunday and Monday departures, and the only ferry service of the day leaves at 10am.
The following Shell Island ferry timetable information is based on peak season departures.
- First departure: Usually 9:00, then every hour on the hour
- Last departure to Shell Island: 3pm
- First return from Shell Island: 10.30, then every hour on the half hour until 3.30pm
- Last return from Shell Island: 5pm
- Crossing time: about 15 minutes
Shell Island ferry ticket prices
Tickets are for the return ferry trip from St Andrews State Park. The advertised cost of the Shell Island ferry ticket is $26.95. However, once taxes and processing fees are added, that becomes $30.46. They can be booked online, but I’d pause now before doing so.
Absurdly, it is cheaper to buy tickets via a third party site. Checking on Viator for a departure tomorrow, I found return Shell Island ferry tickets available for $25.63.
If you book through that link, I earn a small commission. But you also save nearly $5, so everyone wins.
St Andrews State Park admission is charged separately, and costs $8 per vehicle or $2 per pedestrian. Tickets can be booked online to secure your preferred time.
What to expect onboard
Ferries are open-air boats with shaded areas. There are no onboard refreshments, so bring water and snacks. Life jackets are provided, and boarding is straightforward. Arrive 15 minutes early, especially in peak summer.
Why book the Shell Island Snorkel & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise?
- 🚤 Cruise on a large, stable catamaran with paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and a waterslide
- 🏝 Explore Shell Island’s pristine lagoon — perfect for snorkeling, shelling, or relaxing in shallow water
- 🐬 Sail into the Gulf of Mexico to watch wild dolphins in their natural habitat
- 🍹 Refresh aboard with drinks and snacks available for purchase; fun atmosphere with music and games
- 📸 Ideal for families and groups — plenty of space, friendly crew, and unforgettable memories
Things to do on Shell Island
- Swim in clear, shallow waters
- Walk the length of the undeveloped 7-mile island
- Look for dolphins, shorebirds and ghost crabs
- Snorkel around the jetties
- Picnic in designated areas (no shops or restaurants)
Practical tips
- Bring all food, drinks and sun protection, although water can be purchased on the island
- Wear sandals or water shoes for beach landings
- Check return times before setting out
- Leave no trace – take all rubbish back with you
- Wildlife is protected – do not disturb nesting birds or turtles
More Florida travel
Things to do in Panama City Beach include Shell Island snorkel and dolphin cruises, swimming with dolphins and jet boat thrill rides.
Other Florida travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Saying hi to the Apollo Beach manatees near Tampa.
- The best stops on the Punta Gorda to Tampa drive.
- 5 reasons to visit Miami on a round-the-world trip.
- Exploring the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.
- What’s so special about Dry Tortugas National Park?