I took a $30 ferry ride to Shell Island, an unspoiled 7-mile beach in Florida. It was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been.

Terri PetersMay 29, 2024, 14:12 IST

I rode the Shell Island Ferry for about $30.Terri Peters

On a recent visit to Panama City Beach, Florida, I took a ferry ride to Shell Island.
The $30 fare included tram transport to the boat dock and a ferry ride to and from the island.

Sometimes, there's nothing better than being a tourist for the day in your own state. As a Florida resident, I'm always looking for new places to visit without traveling far from home.

On a recent trip to Panama City Beach (PCB), Florida, I decided to visit Shell Island — known for its pristine beaches without souvenir shops, hotels, or restaurants — for the first time.

Like the millions of people who visit Florida for its beaches, I was excited to admire the water and enjoy the area's natural beauty.

To get there, I took the Shell Island Ferry, which shuttles visitors from St. Andrews State Park to the seven-mile-long island. The 15-minute ferry ride, which cost just under $30, transported me to a world completely different from PCB's typical tourism scene.

Here's what the ferry ride was like and why I can't wait to visit Shell Island's scenic beaches again.

A ride on the Shell Island Ferry cost me less than $30.

I entered St. Andrews State Park to get to the ferry.Terri Peters

I took a tram from the park to the dock, where the ferry was waiting.

Everyone waiting at the Pier Store had to board the tram to get to the ferry.Terri Peters

We boarded the ferry and prepared for the short ride to Shell Island.

I boarded the ferry alongside several other passengers.Terri Peters

I chose a seat on the ferry's top deck.

I sat on the top level of the ferry during the short ride.Terri Peters

The ferry ride was peaceful, and the views were beautiful.

The views of St. Andrews Bay and PCB were stunning. Terri Peters

Shell Island was so beautiful that I felt like I was in another world.

Shell Island is pristine and untouched.Terri Peters

It was easy to see how Shell Island got its name.

The amount of shells on the beach blew me away.Terri Peters

I spent the afternoon walking the beach and reading on a blanket.

I relaxed on the beach for several hours.Terri Peters

Catching a ferry back to St. Andrews State Park was easy.

I followed a pathway to get to the departing ferry.Terri Peters

I'd definitely take the Shell Island Ferry again.

If I were in the PCB area again, I'd definitely visit Shell Island.Terri Peters

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