St. Andrews State Park

Quick Facts

• Location: Panama City Beach, Florida

• Address: 4607 State Park Ln, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

• Phone: (850) 708-6100

• Water Type: Saltwater (Gulf of Mexico & St. Andrews Bay)

• Beach Type: State park beach

• Sand Type: Soft white quartz sand

• Water Conditions: Calm emerald Gulf waters on the ocean side; calmer bay waters inside the park

• Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing

• Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November

• Beach Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset

• Pet Policy: Dogs allowed in designated areas (not on main swimming beaches)

• Beach Cleanliness: Extremely clean and well maintained

• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.8

• Pricing: Around $8 per vehicle for day use

• Parking: Large parking areas throughout the park

• Accessibility: Boardwalk beach access and beach wheelchairs available

• Crowd Level: Moderate to busy in peak season

Overview

St. Andrews State Park is one of the most beautiful beach parks along Florida’s Emerald Coast, located just east of Panama City Beach. The park covers roughly 1,200 acres and features more than 1.5 miles of pristine white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.

Famous for its sugar-white sand and emerald-green waters, the park attracts visitors looking for swimming, snorkeling, and peaceful beach scenery away from the busiest tourist areas.

Amenities & Access

• Large parking areas

• Picnic areas and pavilions

• Restrooms and showers

• Campground with RV and tent sites

• Boat ramp and marina access

• Fishing piers and jetty

• Beach boardwalks and accessible paths

The park also serves as the main departure point for boats traveling to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island nearby.

Safety & Water Conditions

• Generally calm Gulf waters ideal for swimming

• Occasional rip currents during rough surf

• Jetties area popular for snorkeling and marine life viewing

Visitors should follow posted beach flags and lifeguard guidance when swimming.

Things to Do

• Swimming and sunbathing

• Snorkeling around the jetties

• Fishing from piers

• Kayaking and paddleboarding

• Birdwatching and wildlife photography

The park is also a migratory stop for birds and butterflies, making it a great location for nature lovers.

Nearby Attractions

• Shell Island

• Panama City Beach

• St. Andrews Bay

• Pier Park

Where to Stay

• St. Andrews State Park Campground

• Panama City Beach resorts

• Vacation rentals along the Emerald Coast

Tips & Rules

• Arrive early during summer and holidays

• Bring snorkeling gear for the jetty area

• Use boardwalks to protect dune vegetation

• Check ferry schedules if visiting Shell Island

Who This Beach Is Best For

• Families

• Snorkelers and kayakers

• Nature lovers and wildlife watchers

Not ideal for visitors seeking nightlife or busy party beaches.

Bottom Line

St. Andrews State Park offers some of the clearest water and most beautiful white-sand beaches in Florida, combining natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and access to Shell Island for a complete Emerald Coast beach experience.