Nestled at the eastern tip of Panama City Beach, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the party zone, St. Andrews State Park is a stunning oasis that offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and wildlife encounters. With its powdery white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters, this 1,200-acre park is a gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast, attracting nature lovers, beachgoers and families alike. We were fortunate to snag one of the park’s waterfront campsites to spend a few days exploring, and it did not disappoint.
As soon as you arrive at St. Andrews State Park, the first thing that strikes you is the brilliant emerald hue of the Gulf of Mexico. Phytoplankton fills the water in the panhandle, and it gives it a different green tone than our aqua Tampa Bay waters. The park is a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding. It has an area referred to as “the kiddie pool,” an enclosed natural area surrounded almost completely by tall rock jetties, so when double red flags are flying and the ocean is closed, this area is usually safe for swimming. Snorkeling here is a favorite pastime of beachgoers since these rocky outcroppings create a sheltered habitat for countless species of fish and colorful marine life. We saw over 20 different species of fish on our visit, and several species of starfish and mollusk, including conch and even a queen helmet. Seemingly endless beaches make finding a spot to set up for the day easy, even on crowded days.
For visitors who prefer to stay dry, the park’s fishing pier provides a perfect vantage point to soak up the views and watch the waves roll in. Stretching out into the shimmering Gulf, the pier is a favorite gathering spot for fisherman casting their lines in hopes of landing “the big one.” The panoramic views of the Panama City Beach skyline and sunsets from the pier are breathtaking. On the opposite side of the park, a smaller second pier houses the ferry that takes visitors to Shell Island, just across the bay. More white sand beaches and soaring natural dunes can be found out there, but the primitive island has no structures or facilities.
One of the most entertaining and easy ways to explore St. Andrews State Park’s sprawling grounds is by renting a golf cart from the park store. It’s a fun and quirky way to see more of the park without breaking a sweat. Forget about the hassle of parking and the long walks in the heat with all your beach gear. Cruising around in a golf cart lets you experience the park’s beauty much easier than by vehicle. Wind your way down the shaded roads lined with pines, or zip along the park’s scenic loop, stopping at one of the many nature trails that meander through coastal scrub, providing a peaceful escape from the beach crowds. These trails offer a chance to see the park’s diverse ecosystems, from salt marshes teeming with birds to the Florida gator. And speaking of gators, no visit is complete without a visit to Gator Lake Overlook to see what wildlife you can spot. A visit near sunset with a flashlight reveals lots of glowing eyes from the cold-blooded residents. Deer often make an appearance, bounding through the tall dunes or grazing on grass. We saw at least a dozen, mostly in the early morning and evening hours. Pro tip: reserve your golf cart rental as soon as you know your travel date, as they sell out fast due to the great pricing. Many companies outside of the park rent them as well, but at almost double the cost. There are also several stores as well as a small oceanside food concession that makes great frozen drinks and Mahi sandwiches.
Bodyboarding and surfing, boating, paddleboarding and kayaking are all favorite thrill-seeking pastimes in PCB. Still, perhaps the most unique is swimming among the pods of playful dolphins that call these emerald waters home. Countless bottlenose dolphins frolic just offshore, splashing in the boat wake as they hunt for fish in the warm Gulf. Watching them play is a reminder of the magic of nature, and it’s an experience that never fails to leave a smile on your face. We must have seen more than 20 on our visit, as well as a giant spotted eagle ray skimming the water. Boat tours are available to try to swim with the dolphins and can be reserved in the park. It’s a unique local attraction that we didn’t know existed until we visited.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a weekend camping trip, St. Andrews State Park is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of nature. Pack a lunch, rent a golf cart and spend the day, or days, exploring all that this emerald paradise has to offer. Plan a visit here and you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.