Things to do · On the water
Boat Tours in Panama City Beach
Shell Island shuttles, dolphin cruises, sunset sails, and the trips that make the week. Boats leave from St. Andrews State Park and the Grand Lagoon marinas; most run two to three hours.
When to book
Book before you arrive for Weeks 2 and 3 — boats sell out — and pick the first good-weather morning of your week so a cancelled day can be rebooked.
What it costs
Shuttles are the cheapest way onto the island; dolphin and sunset cruises are priced per person; fishing charters are priced per boat and split well six ways.
- Morning departures have the calmest water and fewest cancellations
- Bring water and snacks — there's nothing to buy on Shell Island
- Cool on the water at sunset; bring a layer
- All ages; the best under-21 activity in PCB
Book
Shell Island Shuttle
Round-trip boat to the undeveloped barrier island everyone should see once. Two to three hours, all ages.
Dolphin Sunset Cruise
Pontoon cruise on the bay with near-guaranteed dolphins in March, timed for the sunset.
Half-Day Fishing Charter
Four hours offshore with a licensed captain, gear and bait included. Split the boat six ways.
Sample listings for layout. Live inventory and prices from cool2do appear here at launch.
Questions
Will we see dolphins? In March, usually. Captains know where they are; no operator guarantees it.
Is Shell Island worth it? Yes. It's the trip everyone remembers. Full guide.
What if the weather turns? Operators reschedule or refund weather cancellations; check the listing.