Nestled along the stunning shores of Panama City Beach, Florida, Shell Island is a hidden gem for all visitors. Shell Island is known for its pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and beautiful natural environment. If you are looking for a place to pull your boat up and relax for the day – this is the spot! Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast, a water sports lover, or simply in search of tranquility in a breathtaking setting, this island will allow you to experience the beauty of the Emerald Coast like never before. 

If you are staying in Panama City Beach and looking for an experience similar to Crab Island, then search no further. Let’s take a deeper look at how far Shell Island is from Panama City Beach, how to get there, and what to expect. 

How Far is Shell Island from Panama City Beach?

Shell Island is located at the mouth of St. Andrew Bay near Panama City Beach, Florida. The distance from the mainland of Panama City Beach to Shell Island can vary depending on your departure point, but it's typically just a short boat ride away. 

The island is accessible by water, and the boat ride from the popular St. Andrew State Park, which is one of the main departure points, usually takes around 10-15 minutes. It's a convenient and relatively short journey, making Shell Island a popular day trip destination for visitors to Panama City Beach.

How to Get to Shell Island? 

Getting to Shell Island is a fun experience! You will typically need to take a boat or water-based transportation since it’s an island located off the coast of Panama City Beach. Here are the  general steps to getting to Shell Island: 

1. Rent or Prepare a Boat

You can either rent a boat or use your own if you have one. Kayaks and paddleboards are also popular options for reaching Shell Island. We suggest renting a Double Fun double-decker pontoon boat for the day from one of our Panama City Beach locations! With Double Fun, you're not only able to accommodate up to 14 guests but you're also guaranteed to have a fantastic time. Our double-decker pontoon boats have two stories and two exhilarating waterslides, providing endless fun for the entire family to enjoy.

2. Choose a Departure Point

There are several marinas and boat ramps in the Panama City Beach area that offer access to Shell Island. Some of the most commonly used departure points include St. Andrew State Park, Capt. Anderson's Marina, and Lighthouse Marina, among others. We have two Panama City Beach locations. One is located near the Panama City Marina and one is located near St. Andrew’s Park.

3. Check for Regulations

Before you embark on your journey, make sure to check for any regulations or rules in the area. This may include safety regulations, no-wake zones, or seasonal restrictions.

4. Navigation

Use nautical charts, GPS, or navigation apps to help you find your way to Shell Island. It's located at the mouth of St. Andrew Bay, and there are typically marked channels and buoys to guide you.

5. Anchor or Beach Your Boat

Once you arrive at Shell Island, you can anchor your boat in the bay or beach it along the shores of the island. Be mindful of the tides and weather conditions when anchoring.

6. Enjoy Your Time

 Explore the beautiful beaches, go shelling, snorkel, swim, and enjoy the natural surroundings! Be sure to respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. 

7. Plan for Return

Plan your return journey by boat, ensuring you have enough fuel and that you follow safe boating practices.

8. Safety Precautions

Before your trip, make sure you have life vests, safety equipment, and emergency supplies on board. Be aware of the weather conditions and be prepared to return in case of changing weather.

Are you ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime? In conclusion, our brand new double-decker pontoons are not only a thrilling way to explore Shell Island, but they're also the closest you can get to this Gulf Coast gem in Panama City Beach.

So, whether you're planning a family adventure with just the kids or looking to gather your extended family and friends, come on board and experience all that Panama City Beach has to offer. Your Shell Island getaway awaits! Reserve a pontoon boat today.