Near Panama City Beach, between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay

Looking for a place to hang out with the dolphins? You're in luck. Shell Island is home to one of highest populations of bottle-nosed dolphins. It's on the secluded northern end of Wrightsville beach and only accessible by boat. It's the island to relax and get away from the stress of city life.

Not an outdoor adventurist? That's cool. Relax on your own private area of the beach and soak up the natural Shell Islandbeauty and abundant wildlife Shell Island has to offer. St. Andrews State Park's Shell Island Shuttle offers transportation to and from the island every ½ hour, and is the only way on and off the island.

Accommodations: Camp along Shell Island's Grand Lagoon or in the recreation area at St. Andrews Park. If you're looking for something more upscale, book a room at Shell Island Oceanfront Suites. You can even get your own secluded balcony overlooking the Atlantic. Sweet.

Shell Island Local Activities: Sun bathing, fishing, bird watching, boating and diving are all available on Shell Island. The Shell Island Shuttle makes trips to the island every ½ hour and offers snorkeling and kayaking packages.

Shell Island Area Attractions: Shell Island's unspoiled beach landscape is its own attraction. Take a tour of Shell Island's natural wildlife or a cruise along the coast to watch the schools of fish or swim with the dolphins. If you're going into town, visit the "Wreck Paradise" area of Panama City and see the artificial reef sites and dive the legendary 465ft Empire Mica.

Shell Island Area Events:

• Ironman (November): Participant's swim, bike and run in this 140 mile competition.
• Spring Break (Mid-February-March): College students flood the beach during these months.

Shell Island Nightlife: Wander over to Panama City Beach where you'll find restaurants, bars and clubs, no matter what your mood - including Club La Vela; one of the world's largest nightclubs.

Shell Island Weather: Average summer highs climb to 80F + in the summer and dip as low as 60F in the winter.

Shell Island Facilities: Public restrooms, picnic area, fishing pier and boat ramp are all available at Shell Island's Grand Lagoon.

Beach Fees: Shuttle fees are $14 for adults, $6 for children and babies are free. There's also a $5 admission fee per vehicle into St. Andrews State Park.

For more information or help planning your next Florida getaway, visit our Florida Beaches Guide:

• Fort Walton Beach  
• Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Navarre Beach
• Panama City Beach
• Pensacola Beach
• Perdido Key
• Seaside Beach
• St. Andrews State Recreational Area
• St George Island State Park
• Shell Island
• St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge
• St. Joseph Peninsula National Park
• Fernandina Beach
• Ponte Verda Beach
• Apollo Beach
• Calaesi Island State Park
• Clearwater Beach
• Egmont Key
• Fort DeSoto Park