In St. Andrews State Park, nature trails lead to sugar beaches

If you are looking for a contrast to the wild Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park is just the place for you. The five square kilometer nature park offers camping facilities, beaches, nature trails and many wild animals such as alligators, seabirds, snakes and even foxes and coyotes. Just off the coast, Shell Island invites you to search for shells.

St. Andrews State Park offers fine white sand, clear water and sheltered bays. Particularly popular are the main beach on the Gulf of Mexico and the lagoon, which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.

Water sports enthusiasts get their money’s worth

Known for its sugar-white sand and emerald-green water, this former military site stretches over one and a half miles of beach and dunes on the Gulf of Mexico east of Grand Lagoon. Water sports enthusiasts can swim, snorkel, dive, kayak and canoe here.

There are two fishing piers, a landing stage for boats and a boat ramp, providing ample fishing opportunities. Two nature trails meander through a rich variety of coastal flora and fauna, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities.

There is a picnic pavilion on the beach for bathing enthusiasts. Campers – whether RV or tent campers – will find a pitch here for the night. A kiosk offers snacks, souvenirs and fishing equipment. In spring, summer and sometimes in fall, the locals offer boat tours to Shell Island.