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State park · Panama City Beach, Florida
St. Andrews State Park
State park at the eastern end of Panama City Beach, with white sand beaches, a natural pool protected by jetties, fishing piers, trails and boat access to Shell Island.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park occupies the eastern tip of the Panama City Beach barrier strip, beside the channel that connects St. Andrews Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. Before becoming a park, the area was used by the Army as a military camp during World War II.
On both sides of the channel, stone jetties extend into the sea. On the park side, one of them creates a natural pool of calm shallow water, protected from waves, where you can swim and snorkel among fish. The park also has about 2 km of gulf beach, dunes, two fishing boardwalks and trails through coastal forest and marshes, where you can see alligators.
Boats to Shell Island depart from the park pier on the other side of the channel. There is camping with bayside sites.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
In the morning, for the natural pool with clearer, calmer water, and on weekdays when parking is less crowded.
How to get there
It is on Thomas Drive at the eastern end of Panama City Beach, about 10 km from Russell-Fields Pier. A vehicle entrance fee is charged.
Tip
Bring a snorkel mask for the natural pool by the jetties and do not climb on the rocks—they are slippery.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about St. Andrews State Park
What is the natural pool at St. Andrews State Park?
A calm, shallow sea area protected by a stone jetty where you can swim and snorkel.
How do you get to Shell Island from St. Andrews State Park?
By boat from the park pier, a short crossing. Check schedules before you go.
Does St. Andrews State Park charge an entrance fee?
Yes, a vehicle entry fee is charged.