The collection of fire corals, stony corals and the octocorals Gorgonia Flabellum (common sea-fans), is strictly prohibited in Florida. The collection of octocoral species is prohibited.
Shell Island's unspoiled coast is where you will find many colorful animals, including sea turtles. The calm, clear waters around the rock jetties make it ideal for all levels of snorkelers. Dive into the heart of the Gulf Coast's underwater paradise with Panama City Beach Snorkel Discovery Expeditions This is your gateway to exploring the shimmering, clear waters that are a playground for a dazzling array of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs, friendly dolphins, and schools of colorful fish. Whether you're a novice or an experienced snorkeler, these tours offer a seamless experience with expert guides, quality equipment, and personalized attention to ensure your adventure is both safe and memorable. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Panama City Beach. Book your snorkeling tour today and prepare to be amazed by the wonders beneath the waves.. After your snorkeling experience, take a stroll to the white-sand beach.
"This was the best part of our Florida trip.
There is an underwater world just beyond the calm waters of Panama City Beach. Snorkeling can be enjoyed by the entire family. You can rent or buy snorkel gear at your local outfitter, and then go for a photo-worthy dive in a bay, artificial reef or the Gulf of Mexico. You can snorkel alone or with a professional guide.
This was the highlight of our Florida vacation. We felt secure, enjoyed our trip, and also learned a lot. Captain Lorraine was kind, knowledgeable, and accommodating.
Although contact lenses are allowed, you need to be aware of the possibility that your mask could flood and cause you to lose your contacts. If this happens, you can swim with your lenses in. An alternative to wearing contact lenses underwater is to purchase a prescription lens mask.
Once you've explored the miles of white sandy beaches at Panama City Beach and swam in the surf, it's now time to dive beneath the waves. An abundance of sealife can be found in the Gulf of Mexico's green waters. Are you ready to go on a snorkeling adventure?
The 40-foot, U.S. Coast Guard Certified Catamaran "Footloose", can carry up to 38 people. There are more than 50 seats in the Footloose Catamaran.
Booking a tour can be done online using our convenient calendar or by calling us. Don’t forget to ask about renting one of our underwater cameras for your adventure – you’ll love the memories.

Snorkeling can be enjoyed by all ages. Mystical Shell Island's best feature is the calm, shallow water behind its jetty making it a great place to learn snorkeling.
You can wear contact lenses but you should be aware that you may lose your contacts if your mask floods. If that happens, it will be just like swimming with your lenses in. Purchasing a prescription lens dive mask is a good alternative to wearing contacts underwater.
Panama City Snorkeling Tours can help you rent snorkeling gear if you are planning to visit Shell Island.
Captain Croix is a remarkable man. He was very knowledgeable. He allowed us to choose what was important. We selected dolphin sightings for most of the time.
Shell Island and St. Andrews State Park offer the best snorkeling in Panama City Beach Florida. Panama City Snorkeling Tours rents snorkel gear daily for the waters around Shell Island.
The Shuttle will drop off you at the "children's swimming pool", which is the calm, protected waters behind Shell Island Jetty.
You now know where to book your tour or rent equipment. Here are some top snorkeling spots in Panama City Beach.
Queen conch shells from Florida are legal to possess, provided that they do not contain any living queens at the time of collection and as long as a queen conch is not killed, mutilated or removed from its shell before collection.
These reefs can be accessed by boat or from the shore. Nearshore hardbottom reefs can be found from Key Biscayne north up to Cocoa Beach.
From April to August are the best months for snorkelling. Avoid crowds by going to April or May. The water is not as hot as summer, but it is much clearer and lodging is not as costly. Winter snorkelling temperatures range from 24-20degC/75 to 67degF. A wetsuit is required.
You can relax on the sandy beach at Shell Island's Gulf Shore when it is time for relaxation. Adventure Enjoy a relaxing day on the sand and walk along the shore to find shells. Visit Shell Island to see why it is so popular in Panama City Beach.
The jetty is a great place to find small marine animals such as tropical fish, crabs and rays. One day, you might be lucky enough to spot one of our resident bottlenose dolphins. To reach St. Andrew Bay, swim along Shell Island's inland side. You will pass shallow sea grass flats that lead to a completely different marine biosystem.
Panama City Beach Beach is a top spot for snorkeling in the nation! You will have an unforgettable adventure with the beautiful marine life and crystal clear water. There are many places to choose from. But before you go, here are some things you need to know.
From April to August are the best months for snorkelling. Avoid crowds by going to April or May. The water is not as hot as summer, but it is much clearer and lodging is not as costly. Winter snorkelling temperatures range from 24-20degC/75 to 67degF. A wetsuit is required.
Avoid touching corals, fish, or turtles. You can only touch sand, rock, and water safely (and your fins). Learn how to take a break in water by reading our snorkeling etiquette pages. Use sunscreen that isn't harmful.
Panama City Beach Beach is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers alike. The gulf has hundreds of dive spots. These include small coral reefs, large ships and other vessels that were built for divers' expeditions or fish habitats.