Snorkeling in Panama City Beach, Florida

A snorkeling tour in Panama City Beach, Florida, immerses you in the stunning underwater world of the Gulf of Mexico. The pristine waters around Shell Island or St. Andrews State Park are popular snorkeling locations and are renowned for their clear emerald waters and abundant marine life.

The guides for this type of tour are often experienced divers or marine biologists, passionate about the ocean and its inhabitants. Clear visibility and calm conditions allow you to witness a diverse array of sea life in this vibrant marine ecosystem.

Colorful fish, sea urchins and playful dolphins are just some of the creatures you may encounter while snorkeling and swimming. On some tours, you might even see sea turtles gliding through the water.

Here's all you need to know about snorkeling tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Panama City Beach, Florida.

What are the best snorkeling tours in Panama City Beach, Florida?

The clear, warm waters off the Panama City Beach coastline and around Shell Island are ideal for snorkeling. Whether you are a complete novice, or an experienced snorkeler or diver, there are a variety of snorkeling tours to choose from.

Beginners snorkeling tour

Beginner’s snorkeling tours typically begin on the beach, with an introduction to snorkeling by your instructor. Once you are familiar with the equipment, there will be time to practice your newly acquired skills in shallow water before heading out to snorkel in areas brimming with marine life.

A key feature of this type of experience is instruction and supervision from a local diving professional. With a limit to the number of participants, individual attention and safety are prioritized.

Snorkeling, dolphin and Shell Island tour

There are several tours that focus on Shell Island and the waters that surround it. On these tours, snorkeling, dolphin watching and island exploration are highlights. While the exact itineraries may differ, these 3-hour excursions offer the chance to incorporate three activities into one fun-filled and memorable day.

Guides for these tours are often experts in fields such as marine biology or ecology and some even have marine mammal training experience, making them the ideal hosts. Exact boat and group sizes may differ between operators, but most tours of this nature include snorkeling equipment and may also include refreshments or provide a cooler with ice if you prefer to bring your own drinks.

Private 3-hour snorkeling tour

If you want to be able to customize your excursion, then a private snorkeling tour is the way to go. On this type of tour, you and your group can choose how to divide your time and you can opt to focus on snorkeling or spend more time dolphin watching or visiting Shell Island.

Alternatively, you can spend your time just off the shores of the St. Andrews State Park, where the beauty of the natural landscape complements the pristine underwater ecosystems. As a private experience, this tour is ideal for families with younger children and guarantees personal attention, with a maximum of 6 passengers onboard.

Private full day yacht excursion

Spend the whole day out on the water with a private full day yacht charter. Larger yachts can accommodate up to 12 passengers and offer comfortable spaces above and below deck for guests to enjoy.

This Panama City Beach boat tour traverses Grand Lagoon and offers snorkeling, beach hopping, dolphin watching, swimming and sailing activities. On an all-inclusive adventure, you will be provided with all the necessary safety and snorkeling equipment and will also be able to enjoy a selection of refreshing beverages at no extra cost.

How much do snorkeling tours in Panama City Beach, Florida cost?

Beginner’s snorkeling tours are priced from US$70 per participant on a small group basis. These tours typically include instruction from a diving professional.

A snorkeling, dolphin and Shell Island tour ranges from US$50 to US$130 per person depending on the tour length and additional inclusions.

Private snorkeling tours are usually either 2 or 3 hours in length. 2 hour tours cost US$ and 3 hour tours start from US$400 per group of up to 6 people.

Private full day yacht excursions are a luxury experience, costing in the region of US$800 for groups of up to 12 guests.

What is included?

Panama City Beach snorkeling tours typically include the services of a captain and diving instructor, along with snorkeling equipment and life vests. Paddleboards, kayaks and water slides may also be available for you to use.

Bottled water is usually included and some boats may also provide cooler boxes, allowing you to bring your own drinks. Depending on the tour, you may also be able to purchase snacks and dirnks on board.

Some tours may also feature additional outdoor activities or sightseeing. Tours to St. Andrews Bay often include refreshments and the tram ride to the marina, however park entrance fees are usually not covered.

Where does it start?

There are many marinas that dot the water’s edge in Panama City Beach. Some tours will start at the tour operator’s offices at locations such as North or South Lagoon Drive. Other cruises begin at one of the resort marinas or from St. Andrews State Park Marina.

Snorkeling tours that cast off at St. Andrews State Park Marina usually offer a park and ride tram service.

How long does it last?

Snorkeling tours vary in duration depending on the itinerary and whether any additional activities are included. The average small group snorkeling tour length is between 1.5 and 3 hours. Tours that include a stop on Shell Island may be slightly longer. Private tours and boat charters can be as long as 7 hours.

Can wheelchair users join?

The boats used for snorkeling tours may be accessible for wheelchair users, however, snorkeling is not usually suitable for people with mobility challenges.

If snorkeling is only one part of a tour itinerary, participation on the tour excluding water activities such as snorkeling may be possible, allowing wheelchair users the opportunity to join their travel companions on the tour.

Some private tours also allow service and comfort animals, making it possible for family and friend groups to enjoy an inclusive experience.

When is the best time to go snorkeling in Panama City Beach, Florida?

The best time to go snorkeling in Panama City Beach, Florida, is from May to October. During these months, the Gulf waters are calmest warmest and clearest, enhancing underwater visibility.

It's advisable to avoid peak hurricane season, which usually runs from late August to September, as storms can affect water clarity and safety.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If the weather is bad, your snorkeling tour will be cancelled and you can either reschedule for a later date, or request a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Panama City Beach, Florida ?

• Scuba diving in Panama City Beach, Florida
• Escape rooms in Panama City Beach, Florida
• Bike tours in Panama City Beach, Florida
• Stand up paddleboarding in Panama City Beach, Florida
• Kayaking in Panama City Beach, Florida

Travel tips

• The Florida sun can be intense. Use waterproof sunscreen, wear a hat, and consider a UV-protective swim shirt or rash guard to avoid sunburn.
• Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months when temperatures can soar.
• If you're new to snorkeling, don't worry. Panama City Beach is great for beginners. Inform your guide, and they'll help you get comfortable.
• Before diving in, ask your guide about jellyfish presence. Certain times of the year may have higher jellyfish activity, and it's good to be prepared or wear a protective suit.
• Don't push yourself too hard, especially if you're not a strong swimmer or if you're not used to physical activity at sea. Listen to your guide regarding currents and weather conditions.