Where’s the best place for snorkeling in Panama City Beach?

There are all sorts of amazingly fun activities to occupy your time when you visit PCB. Boat tours, dolphin watching, fishing—and of course, checking out the best place to snorkel in Panama City Beach, Florida, which many experts say is St. Andrews State Park.

Of course, the snorkeling is great at many of Florida’s state parks. Whether you’re on the Gulf Coast or the Keys, the gorgeous clear water and exciting marine life makes for a fascinating view. Snorkeling lets you float along the water, a quiet visitor to the world of the sea life, and gives you a bird’s eye view (as it were) of what’s happening below you. There’s nothing calmer.

But St. Andrews State Park in particular is well known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald green water, its variety of available activities and amenities, and its proximity to Shell Island, another gorgeous place to visit.

If you’re planning a snorkeling trip, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • The snorkeling is always going to be best when the water’s clear, because you’ll have maximum visibility.
  • If you’re planning to snorkel in an inlet, you need to be aware of tides. Check with a local dive shop to make sure you’re going in the water at a safe time.
  • Snorkeling close to a jetty or pier can mean that you get hooked by a fisher. Be careful!
  • Stay away from boating traffic and Jet Skis. Getting hit by one of those would be incredibly dangerous for someone snorkeling, and might even be fatal.
  • If you’re snorkeling any distance off the beach, use a dive flag. This will make it easier for others in the water to see you. If you don’t already have one in your gear, talk to a local dive shop to buy or rent one.
  • Keep an eye out for jellyfish in the water, and know that if you see one on the beach, there are probably many more out on the surf.

In general, St. Andrews State Park is one of the best places to snorkel in warmer weather months; north of Tampa, the water on the Gulf Coast can still get a bit on the chilly side. Although the sea isn’t a swimming pool, and conditions can change every day, snorkelers often report seeing blue and yellow tangs, sergeant majors, and bluehead wrasses.

If you’re looking for a coral reef environment for snorkeling, of course you won’t find that at St. Andrews State Park, but snorkelers report visibility of up to 20 feet, lots of fish, and lots of smaller hermit crabs and other wildlife close to the shore that kids can enjoy. And once you’re done snorkeling, you can explore the nature trails, a cookout, or bird-watch.

If you think you might want a more private snorkeling experience, consider one of our tours out to Shell Island. Just let our captains know what you’re looking for, and we’ll help you locate more secluded spots among the grass sea beds. We can also look for wild dolphins in their natural habitat, or just let you enjoy the feeling of the sea breeze on your skin and the sun on your face.

It’s up to you. Enjoy the best snorkeling in Panama City Beach, the relaxing journey of a boat tour, or a little bit of both. It’s your vacation; make it memorable.

Parasailing with kids: local STEM camp intrigues teens

Kids at the STEM camp at Florida State University had an attention grabbing moment in mid-June, when two helicopters and a powered parasail arrived at the camp to show them some of the intriguing things that are happening in aviation.

At Adventures At Sea, we strongly believe that parasailing for kids is safe, fun, educational, and can provide valuable perspective to kids who are interested.

If you’ve never parasailed before, It’s an unbelievable experience. You’ll enjoy the gorgeous, lovely views of the gorgeous blue waters and pale beaches of Florida’s exquisite Gulf Coast. But if you or your child are interested in the sciences, parasailing can be even more.

Love marine biology?  

If your kid loves ocean life, taking them parasailing allows kids to see the grand vistas of the ocean from a perspective they’ll never achieve on the ground. From above, they can identify:

  • Stingrays
  • Schools of dolphins
  • Sea Turtles

And watch the way these animals interact with each other and the water from 300 feet in the air, seeing a grander picture than you could on the beach, or even on a boat tour.

Fascinated by aviation and aerodynamics?

If your child is a budding engineer or physicist, the chance to feel the forces at play in flight first hand is like no other. When you parasail, you’re strapped into a harness which is attached to a parachute. A line connects you to the back of a boat. While the boat coasts over the waves, air catches in the parachute and lits you up into the sky. You get to experience the unique beauty of flight without the roar of a jet engine or the training necessary with a parachuting trip.

A couple sails on a rainbow parachute against pale blue sky

If you’re coming to Panama City Beach, Florida, on a family vacation, and are planning to go parasailing with your kids, have them ask their science or biology teacher if they can get extra credit for writing a report about what they see and feel while parasailing.

Concerned that your child will be afraid once they get in the air?  

You know your child best. If you’re concerned that your kid will be nervous up in the air, remember that our parasailing harnesses can hold up to 500 pounds and up to three people. We can strap in an adult and a kid, so that you’ll be there if your child is afraid.

How to prepare a kid for parasailing 

If you’re planning to bring your child with you to parasail at Adventures at Sea in Panama City Beach, Florida, there are a number of ways you may be able to help your kid know what to expect. If your child is the nervous type, but is excited about the possibilities, there are some great ways to help them mentally prepare for what they might see while parasailing. You could:

  • Watch videos together that have been taken during parasailing
  • Show them aerial view photos of the area
  • Talk to them about what sort of safety precautions we take at Adventures At Sea, such as making sure that we strap you into your harness and verify that it’s secure, and only “dipping” you in the water if you request it.

If you want a safe and exciting adventure with parasailing for kids, book your trip at Adventures at Sea in Panama City Beach, Florida. Give us a call, book your adventure online–or if you’re already near Lagoon Drive, swing by and say hello!

Book your parasailing adventure today to reserve the date and time you most want! We’ll make sure both you and your kids have an amazing parasailing trip, where you see the gorgeous vistas of both Panama City Beach, and the Gulf Coast of Florida.

A sandy, pale Gulf Coast beach with a single palm tree, and warm blue waters with small waves.

Snorkeling In Panama City Beach Gets My Most Fun Vote

 

So the chances are the first few days of your holiday are going to be getting out of that work funk. That’s okay, you deserve it. But if you haven’t planned any activities for the rest of the holiday you’ll be about ready to start looking to see what there is to do. You can’t sit by the pool the whole time – okay you can but that would be a waste of a beautiful location. That’s why I’m putting in my vote for snorkeling in Panama City Beach – seriously you came all this way and aren’t even going to take a look to see what’s down there?

Think about all the wonderful pictures you’ll get to liven up that slide show! And to top it off you can collect all kinds of seashells off the bottom of the sea and take them home as souvenirs – provided you leave the ones that are still inhabited.

Snorkeling in Panama City Beach will bring you closer to the dolphins, and as they say in these parts ‘not seeing a dolphin during your stay is a rare thing’. With a large local population of curious bottlenose dolphins you’d have to have your eyes closed to miss them. Although, if you have your head under water as they pass you by you’d be forgiven.

But there’s more than just dolphins

Having your face under water is how you get to see all the brightly colored tropical fish that swim in the warm gulf stream waters, everything from redfish to starfish. Vast numbers of sea life live here because of the warm gulf stream waters that encourage the rapid growth of their homes, the reefs. And if you pick up a waterproof camera you can go snorkeling in Panama City Beach and take loads of amazing pictures.

To find new places to snorkel you could also rent a pontoon boat. Bring your crew, up to 12 people can fit comfortably on each pontoon and other than the driver (who has to be 18) there are no age limitations. It’s the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the area, and, of course, get to Shell Island. Where you’ll see other wildlife and be able to find a nice spot for a picnic.

Even if you’ve never piloted a boat before, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you learn to confidently control the pontoon. And once you’re happy you understand the simple controls you can take your boat, and your crew, out on the water unaccompanied. With an adjustable awning, known as a bimini top, to keep your little ones safe from the glare of the sun you can let them concentrate on spotting those dolphins.

Explore the waters off the beaches at Shell Island and find the most spectacular views. You can spend time searching for shells and there are even more in the water than on the beach. Once you find a spot you’ll see the reefs are teeming with beautiful underwater creatures and you’re sure to create amazing memories snorkeling in Panama City Beach.

Snorkeling is so easy to master you’ll soon be a pro

It might feel weird at first and take a little getting used to but it’s an ideal way to see underwater for the first time. And perfect for those a little nervous about swimming in the sea. It’s also a great way to let younger children see what’s going on down there without worrying about their swimming abilities.

Want to know if your mask is the right size? Put it on your face without the band around your head then breath in through your nose. If you can get it to seal around your face without falling off it’s the right one!

There are some other things you need to know too: 

The mask shouldn’t fit too tight but needs to be snug, with the band around the widest part of the head. If water starts to get in your mask whilst you’re swimming it could be because the band isn’t in the right place.
Clearing the snorkel of water is done by blowing out through your mouth with a large breath. This pushes the water back up the tube.
And to clear water from your goggles simply raise your head above the water and pull the front of the mask away from your face.

If you’re the more adventurous type and want to explore further whilst snorkeling in Panama City Beach you’ll also need a set of fins. Now, as easy as it looks when others do it, this may take a little practice before you’re completely comfortable. Fins can increase your cruising speed in the water but they can also cause you to get toe cramp if they’re too tight.

Top tips:
Choose a pair of fins that fit without being tight on your feet (to prevent cramp)
keep the fins underwater when in use (to prevent drag)
and if your legs get tired flip over onto your back to give them a bit of a rest.

This a perfect activity for absolute beginners, although you should be able to swim if you intend to use the flippers. All you need is a sense of adventure, a desire to see all that Panama has to offer, and the ability to understand simple instructions – oh, and a bathing suit. You can also get maps that show the best places to go snorkeling in Panama City Beach, and if you ask when you’re renting your gear I’m sure the locals will be able to tell you the secret places too.
And that’s why I’m voting for snorkeling in Panama City Beach
You get to learn two new skills (assuming you’ve never done snorkeling or pontooning before), see under the sea, explore without a guide, give your family and friends a holiday they’ll never forget, and take some of the most spectacular pictures ever!

With such a large area of unspoilt natural beauty your stay wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t see all it has to offer. What better way than to rent a pontoon, fill up a picnic basket, and spend a day snorkeling in Panama City Beach.

Snorkeling In Panama City Group

PCB Charter Fishing

 

Charter fishing in Panama City Beach has been a vacation favorite long before the high rise condos, Pier Park and today’s attractions found their place on the local landscape. There’s absolutely nothing more relaxing than being out on the open gulf – with the warm breezes, salty air and Northern Florida sunshine riding along with you. If you love to fish, awesome! But even if you don’t fancy yourself as a fisherman, go along for the experience and enjoy the opportunity to get out on the water and learn about gulf marine life. Some of the fish species you can expect to catch (and hopefully sample) include Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, red grouper, black grouper, snapper, cobia, triggerfish and more. Your boat captain will be a wealth of knowledge and will ensure that you and your group reel in the maximum haul!

Did you know that it’s common to see dolphins, sea turtles and manatees on a Panama City Beach fishing trip? Even better – these friendly creatures love to come right up to the boat and say hi, so be sure to take lots of pictures!

Our Panama City Beach charter fishing trips are captained by a professional and experienced crew whose number one concern is your safety. “The Reel Commocean” is a 58 foot air-conditionedfishing vessel that comes fully equipped with a full kitchen, restrooms and plenty of space for everyone on board to kick back and enjoy this exciting adventure.

We have you covered when it comes to fishing licenses, tackle and bait. So just throw a picnic and some drinks in the cooler,grab the sunscreen, and get ready to catch some fish!

About Shell Island Panama City Beach Florida

 

Shell Island
Shell Island

If you came to the Panama City area to experience the joys of “The World’s Most Beautiful Beaches”, then you owe it yourself to spend some time on the most beautiful beach of them all. Occupying a 7-mile stretch between the waters of St. Andrews Bay and Gulf of Mexico, Shell Island is an oasis of pristine wilderness far removed from the crowds and buildings you’ll find elsewhere. In fact, there’s nowhere else like it.

 

 

Visitors to the Shell Island regularly marvel at the whiteness of the sand, the richness of the emerald/blue colors and the clarity of the water that surrounds it. Many feel like they’re lost on their own tropical paradise and spend an entire day sunbathing, snorkeling, shell hunting, picnicking and exploring without ever seeing another soul.

 

Take-Jet-Skis-to-Shell-IslandShell Island is a protected natural preserve and part of St. Andrews State Park. It ranges in width from less than a mile at its widest point near the pass narrowing to 200 yards and less near its eastern point. It’s uninhabited and undeveloped so the island maintains a timeless quality. You don’t need a park pass to visit it, but you do need a way to get there. Pontoon boats, tour boats and wave runners are all popular options that will give you a taste of the island or let you explore on your own.

You’ll probably run into some of our area’s friendly wild dolphins on the way. The waters around the island are home to one of the largest concentrations of wild bottle-nose dolphins in the world. Once on the island, you’ll be amazed at the number of sand dollars, conch shells, starfish and other treasures that constantly replenish along the Gulf shore. And keep an eye out for the unique underwater forest just offshore. The sea grass beds in the bay also teem with underwater life and make for entertaining snorkeling stops.

With wide-open expanses of sugar-fine sand, rolling natural dunes and palm-studded woodland, you’ll have plenty to explore and plenty of room to find your own piece of paradise. Relax and enjoy the sunshine and imagine yourself lost in a tropical paradise right here in Panama City, because that’s exactly where you’ll be!


 What is Shell Island in Panama City Beach?

From marine wild life and sparkling waters, Shell Island (Panama City Island) is the only all inclusive area around. Be sure Take a cooler, a snack and above all- your camera! At Shell Island, you and your family can experience a wide range of fun Panama City attractions! This Panama City Island is about 1 mile long, and is filled with seashell souvenirs, wild dolphins, sea turtles, pretty scenery and much more!

Are you sure I’ll see wild dolphins in Panama City Beach?

Wild dolphins are often seen in the shallow waters that surround the North side of Panama City Island. These dolphins are known for their friendliness and gentleness with people. They might even let you pet them! We offer Shell Island boat cruises and wave runner tours to get you close enough to see the dolphins playing and enjoying the warm blue water.

Can my kids go snorkeling in Panama City Florida?

Absolutely! Saint Andrew’s State Park is directly across from Shell Island, and right there is what the locals call “The Kiddy Pool”. It’s an area attached to the coast of Saint Andrew’s State Park that is surrounded by boulders sunk in the water to provide safety from boats. The water is shallow, so bring your gear on our Panama City tours and let’s go snorkeling!


The-Pass-at-Shell-IslandThe-Backside-of-Shell-Island Shell-Island-has-Beautiful-SceneryWaverunner-Tour-to-Shell-Island Snorkeling-at-Shell-IslandShell-Island-Sunset

Shell Island Tours in Panama City Beach Florida

Shell IslandShell Island is one of the best known attractions in Panama City Beach. Containing a seven-mile long necklace of pristine white-sand beach, Shell Island is the perfect picture of a postcard beach in an area loaded with stunning beaches. What makes Shell Island stand out is its wild nature and timeless setting away from the high-rise condos – and away from the crowds. Adventures at Sea offers several ways to experience Shell Island and help you lose yourself in a postcard adventure you’ll never forget.


Waverunner Tours
Waverunner Tours

See Shell Island on one of our guided wave runner tours while also exploring Grand Lagoon, St. Andrew’s State Park and keeping an eye out for some of our area’s friendly wild dolphins. You’ll head out from our marina and rev up the excitement as you approach the pass, then head around the island to take in its scenic splendor. You’ll also have the opportunity to stop and pick up a few of the shells it’s famous for as souvenirs, too.

Pontoon Boats
Pontoon Boats

Be your own captain aboard one of our modern pontoon boats. Chart your course and head out for the day with a group of up to 12 people. You’ll want to load up the cooler and bring along the snorkeling gear to explore the many underwater sights along the way as well. Drop anchor in the bay or pull up to the island and find your own private section of uninhabited beach. Half-day and full-day rentals are available. We recommend the full-day as most people don’t want to leave once they get to Shell Island.

Boat Cruises
Boat Cruises

Don’t want to captain your own vessel? Choose one of our new boat cruises and leave all the navigating to us. Our comfortable boats can seat up to 6 people each, and you can reserve as many boats as needed for your group size. Our captains will fill you in on all the local information on your personalized tour as well as take you to some of their favorite secret spots on the island. On this Shell Island tour, all you need is a camera and a strong enough finger to snap plenty of photos.

Shell Island

See Dolphins in Panama City Beach Florida

 

Are you looking for fun things to do in Panama City Beach? Do you want to see dolphins in their natural habitat? If so, we have an adventure for you! Wave runner tours and the all new boat cruises are available daily.


Waverunner-Tours-Logo
Waverunner Tours

Wave runner tours are self paced, guided tours on wave runners to Shell Island in Panama City Beach. Guides will lead you on jet skis (wave runners) to the different areas in search for wild dolphins, snorkeling adventures, and souvenirs.

 

 


Boat Cruises
Boat Cruises

Our boat cruises offer the same activities, except of course, you, your family and your Panama City guide are driving a boat. We recommend boat cruises for families with small children, adults who plan to be drinking, and anyone who wants the tour experience without the jet skis.

Go Fishing in Panama City Beach Florida

 

Do you like to fish? Would you like to take your kids fishing in Panama City Florida? Then we have 2 options available for you and your family. You can book a charter fishing boat trip, or you can rent a boat and navigate the waters yourself (don’t worry, we provide a map).


Pontoon-Boat-Rentals-Logo
Pontoon Boat Rentals

If you don’t mind staying within a mile of the shore line, consider our pontoon boat rentals. They’re perfect for a family looking for fun things to do on a budget.

 

 


Fishing Trips
Fishing Trips

If you want to go far from the coast and experience deep sea fishing in Panama City Beach, our charter fishing trips are definitely for you.

 

 

 

Fishing on the Boat

Water Sports in Panama City Beach Florida

 

Want to experience rides, thrills and attractions? You’ve come to the right place! But be sure to see all of our attractions before deciding on yours.


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Parasail Rides

If you want to experience the ultimate site- seeing adventure, parasailing is for you. Up to 3 people can ride at a time, and observers are welcome for the boat ride!

 

 

 


Jet-Ski-Rentals-Logo
Jet Ski Rentals

Jet Ski rentals (wave runners) speak for themselves, fast. Although we offer Panama City tours on wave runners, if you’re looking for exhilarating speed and no group to keep up with, this is it. Donuts, 360′s, and anything else you can pull off. All bets are off and there are few rules.

 

 


Banana-Boat-Rides-Logo
Banana Rides

Banana boat trips have become increasingly popular with large groups and families. Sometimes, we have entire football and cheerleading teams sign up to go all day long. This ride is perfect for kids too, because the driver is pulling the banana boat with a jet ski, so he can adjust the speed to accommodate the group.

 

 

Jet Ski in Panama City

Relax in Panama City Beach Florida

 

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Sailboat Rentals

There are 2 reasons that you and your family choose the beach for a vacation. You want to experience fun attractions, and you want to relax! You can find our lounge chair and umbrella rentals on the beachside of most Panama City hotels and motels.

Lounge Chair Rentals
Lounge Chair Rentals

If you want to be treated like you’re on vacation, try a beach chair and umbrella rental for at least a day. The beach attendants will accommodate your every desire. Move closer to the water so you can watch the kids, move further away from others and experience solitude, have your umbrella moved for you as the sun changes position, shade the kids while they play in the sand, even get something to drink- without having to get up!

Maybe you want to cruise the coast line and do some site- seeing. If so, bring the kids and go sailing on one of our catamaran sailboats. Our instructors will teach you all you need to know. If you want to relax of course, we will drive the sail boat for you.

Dogs Relaxing on the Beach

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