What can you find at Shell Island?

What You’ll Find. Shell Island lives up to its name. Sand dollars, moon snails, conch shells, pin shells, periwinkles, whelk and olive shells are just a few of the indigenous seashells found here.

Are there alligators on Shell Island?

Shell Island has a fascinating amount of local wildlife including dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the lake on the island, marsh rabbits, racoons and more.

Why is Shell Island water brown?

Tannins are created when pine needles, leaves, grasses and other organic matter get into the water and break down over time, giving it a dark tea-stained look, according to city officials.

What is special about Shell Island?

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 Shuttle, the island is a local must-see location for visitors who want the pristine beach experience. Swimming and snorkeling are great.

Can you swim on Shell Island?

Shell Island is a local must-see location for Panama City Beach visitors looking for the unspoiled white-sand beach experience. The island offers plenty of beach space and peaceful inshore waters where swimming and snorkeling are great.

Can you swim to Shell Island?

There is no limit to the activities you can experience at or on Shell Island! You can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, go kayaking, sunbathe, hunt seashells, go hiking, have a picnic, and more!

Can you see dolphins on Shell Island?

The waters around Shell Island are home to a large group of bottlenose dolphins. You can encounter these amazing marine mammals at home in their natural habitat on one of our Panama City Beach Dolphin Tours.

Why does Panama City Beach smell like sewer?

The spot is towards the west end of Back Beach Road, where the Wastewater Treatment Plant is located. “The primary odor-causing compound is that hydrogen sulfide. it’s that rotten egg smell,” Panama City Beach Utilities Director Mark Shaeffer said.

Who owns Shell Island Florida?

the Florida State Park System
Roughly half of Shell Island is controlled by the Florida State Park System, which also manages the nearby St. Andrew State Recreation Area.

Can you swim at Shell Island?

Why is Shell Island called Shell Island?

The island itself was named after the variety of seashells that wash up on its shore.