Shell Island

Shell Island is a short boat ride from St. Andrews State Park and is an undeveloped 700-acre barrier island. Shell Island is home to the world’s largest population of bottle-nose dolphins, a wide variety of shells, and an incredible amount of wildlife. This pristine island in the Gulf of Mexico is one of the best state parks in Florida and has been named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. 

At Shell Island, you can go snorkeling, shelling, or just relax on the beach. Offering 7 miles of undeveloped beaches, this is the place to go if you truly want to get away. You won’t find any developed amenities so you must bring your own food and beverages, and prepare to bring your trash out with you. 

You must access this island via boat, and there are local charters that go back and forth from the mainland to the island regularly throughout the year. Summer visitors will find boats travel back and forth more frequently. 

Shell Island is a part of St. Andrews State Park, located along the western portion of the park divided by the St. Andrews Shipping Channel.