St. Andrews State Park consists of two sections: a peninsula extending from Panama City Beach and the western part of narrow Shell Island. Visit the 1,200-acre (480-hectare) park for a wide variety of activities on its oceanfront, bayside and inland spaces.
The 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) ocean-facing section on the southern side of the park is a continuation of the very long Panama City Beach. Enjoy the sugary white sands, blue-green Gulf Coast water and Florida sunshine. Swim, sunbathe, snorkel, scuba dive and search for shells. Inland, hike along trails or bike along the paved park road.
Bring a fishing license and cast your line from three locations: the St. Andrews State Park Pier jutting over the ocean, the pier at the marina along the Grand Lagoon and multiple rocky outbreaks scattered along the shore. Expect to catch mackerel, trout, cobia and even shark.
Rent a kayak or other boat to venture out on the Grand Lagoon. Ride a ferry from the park’s marina to travel to Shell Island, the eastern part of the park. This narrow barrier island is fairly quiet, with beaches and trails for family enjoyment. It’s known for excellent opportunities to find shells such as conch, whelk, snails and sand dollars. As long as the shells are no longer occupied, they can be taken home.
Consider staying overnight at the park’s campground along Grand Lagoon. Reserve a spot to fit varied needs, from a small tent to a 45-foot (14-meter) RV. Watch the sunset from the beach and get unique photos through the supporting posts for the pier.
Drive from Panama City across two bridges over the Grand Lagoon to get to St. Andrews State Park in about 20 minutes. Pay a per-vehicle fee to enter the site. Free parking spots are located near both piers. Reach Shell Island by private boat or via ferry from the western part of the park or from other operators in Panama City and Grand Lagoon. The park is open during daylight hours year round.
