Beaches
Snorkeling
St. Andrews State Park
A jetty-protected lagoon where the water stays calm and clear - the best beginner snorkelling on the Panhandle, with fish right by the rocks.
Ages
3–18+
Cost
Paid
Duration
~5h
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
On the water
The rock jetties at St. Andrews create a protected pool on the Gulf side where the water stays flat when the open beach is rough, and it holds fish - sheepshead, spadefish, small rays - close enough in that a child in a mask can see them standing chest-deep. That combination is uncommon on the Panhandle, where most beaches are beautiful but empty of anything to look at underwater. There is a second calmer beach on the lagoon side for younger kids, plus a campground, and a shuttle runs across to undeveloped Shell Island in season.
Pricing
$8 per vehicle (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does St. Andrews State Park cost?
- St. Andrews State Park charges admission. $8 per vehicle (verify)
- What ages is St. Andrews State Park good for?
- St. Andrews State Park is best for kids ages 3 to 18+.
- Is St. Andrews State Park stroller friendly?
- No, St. Andrews State Park is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to St. Andrews State Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at St. Andrews State Park.
- How hard is St. Andrews State Park?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 5 hours.
- Is St. Andrews State Park free?
- No, there is a cost to visit St. Andrews State Park. $8 per vehicle (verify)
- What should I bring to St. Andrews State Park?
- Mask and snorkel, water shoes for the rocks, reef-safe sunscreen
- How long does St. Andrews State Park take?
- Most families spend about 5 hours at St. Andrews State Park.
- When is the best time to visit St. Andrews State Park?
- Morning, and check the surf flag - the jetty pool is calmest on a light onshore wind.