Explore Shell Island at your own pace with full or half-day pontoon rentals for up to 10
4 or 8 hours
Up to 10 people
Pontoon boat, Fuel, Safety gear
Pilot your own pontoon to Shell Island from Panama City Beach. Enjoy a relaxed day on the water with fuel, safety gear, and maps included.
Renter must be 21 or older; if born after Jan 1, 1988, a Florida boater license is required. Boats hold up to 10 guests. There are no restrooms on Shell Island and each person must sign a waiver.
Do I need previous boating experience to operate a pontoon?
Not at all. Pontoons are easy to operate and include a quick rundown of USCG safety equipment, a map, and tips.
How many people can the pontoon hold?
Up to 10 people.
What's the minimum age to rent?
You must be 21 or older to rent.
Do I need a boating license?
If born after January 1, 1988, a Florida boater license is required.
Where are you located?
5709 North Lagoon Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Is there a restroom on Shell Island?
No.
What should we bring?
Towels, coolers, snorkel gear, fishing gear, camera, sunscreen, beach chairs, umbrella, Bluetooth speaker.
Is there anything we can't bring?
Grills, paddle boards, surf boards, kayaks, or devices to pull behind the boat.
Free cancellation with 7 days' notice. No-shows are charged the full price.
5709 North Lagoon Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Discover what we've curated for you
Shell Island Shuttle consistently earns praise for its friendly, knowledgeable crew members who make the journey memorable. Captains like Carla, Drew, and Roy get called out by name for creating fun, informative experiences, and the staff has shown flexibility with things like snorkel gear refunds when needed. The round-trip ride runs around $24 per person with shuttles departing every 30-45 minutes, giving you plenty of options throughout the day. The actual experience delivers exactly what you'd hope for: a smooth boat ride to an undeveloped barrier island where you can explore at your own pace. Just remember to pack everything you'll need since Shell Island itself has no facilities or services. Reviewers mention the shuttle runs on schedule and provides snorkel gear rentals if you want to explore the water. A heads up that the address can be a bit tricky to find initially, but once you're there, the whole operation runs smoothly. Families particularly seem to enjoy the trip, often spotting dolphins and other wildlife along the way.
First time there and it was beautiful! It is a island with nothing on it, so bring food, drinks, whatever you may need for the time you are there.
Laura OBriant
October 26, 2025
First time there and it was beautiful! It is a island with nothing on it, so bring food, drinks, whatever you may need for the time you are there.
Laura OBriant
October 26, 2025