Lower Grand Lagoon: Panama City Beach Guided Snorkeling Tour

Explore the Emerald Waters of Panama City Beach with a Guided Snorkeling Tour

For anyone seeking a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, the Lower Grand Lagoon: Panama City Beach Guided Snorkeling Tour offers a memorable experience for just $65 per person. With a duration of 1.5 hours, this tour provides a perfect afternoon activity that combines natural beauty, marine wildlife encounters, and professional guidance. The tour departs from St. Andrews State Park, a renowned location known for its vibrant underwater biodiversity.

This guided snorkeling adventure is ideal for beginners and those with basic swimming skills, as an experienced instructor is always present to ensure safety and confidence. While parking and park entry cost an extra $8, the tour includes all necessary snorkeling gear, complimentary photos, and a friendly guide. Expect a small group setting limited to 10 participants, which helps foster a comfortable and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Professional instruction ensures confidence in the water, ideal for beginners
• All snorkeling equipment and free photos/videos are included
• The tour explores the Jetties in St. Andrews State Park, home to diverse marine life
• You may see dolphins, manatees, rays, and a variety of fish
• Tour duration is 1.5 hours, usually in the afternoon
• Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience

Snorkeling at St. Andrews State Park’s Jetties

This tour takes place at the Jetties, a man-made rock formation extending into the Gulf of Mexico within St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve. This location offers a spectacular underwater landscape with a variety of invertebrates, fish, and marine mammals. The rock structures attract plenty of sea creatures, making it an engaging spot for snorkelers.

The instructor leads the group to the best entry point, guiding everyone safely into the water. As you swim, you’ll notice the brilliant emerald-green water and the lively marine ecosystem. This spot provides an accessible and safe environment for beginners to see octopus, hermit crabs, and blue crabs, alongside colorful fish like tangs, sergeant majors, damselfish, pufferfish, and wrasse.

Meeting Point and Access to St. Andrews State Park

To join the tour, you’ll meet under the pavilion with picnic tables at the Jetty parking lot, after passing the alligator pond and then turning at the Beaches-Jetty Day-Use Areas sign. Once parked, the guide will be waiting for you.

Access costs $8 for park entry and parking, which is not included in the tour price. The park entrance and parking area are straightforward to find following the provided directions, making the start of your adventure smooth and hassle-free.

What’s Included and What You Need to Bring

The tour provides all snorkeling gear, so there’s no need to worry about equipment. The instructor is fluent in English and offers a safety briefing before entering the water. Participants also receive complimentary photos and videos captured with a GoPro, allowing you to relive the experience.

What to bring includes swimwear and a towel, while the tour itself lasts around 1.5 hours. It’s recommended to arrive prepared with sun protection and water to stay comfortable. Since swimming skills are beneficial but not strictly required, this tour welcomes most water enthusiasts.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience with Try Diving Fun LLC

Operated by Try Diving Fun LLC, this tour emphasizes small group sizes—limited to 10 participants—which promises a more intimate and attentive experience. The English-speaking guide ensures clear communication and shares insights about the local marine life, making the trip both fun and educational.

Guests praise the helpfulness and attentiveness of the guide, along with the stunning underwater views and great photos taken during the adventure. The relaxed pace and safe environment make it an excellent choice for families or first-time snorkelers.

Timing and Flexibility with Bookings

The tour is usually available in the afternoon, perfect for enjoying the sun and warmth of Florida’s coast. The option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility if your plans change. You can reserve now with the pay later option, making planning effortless.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While swimming skills are not mandatory, basic familiarity with water is helpful. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old or pregnant women due to safety considerations. The equipment provided is suitable for most sizes, but participants should be comfortable in the water to enjoy the experience fully.

Unique Aspects of This Snorkeling Tour in Panama City Beach

What sets this tour apart is its focus on marine wildlife and the expert guidance provided. The Jetties are a famous snorkeling site, offering diverse species and stunning underwater scenery. The small group format enhances safety and allows for personalized attention from the friendly instructor.

The inclusion of free photos and videos adds value, enabling participants to capture memories without hassle. The well-organized meeting point within the park makes logistics simple, and the relaxed pace means everyone can enjoy the sights at their own speed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided snorkeling tour is well-suited for families, beginners, and marine life enthusiasts. Its affordable price and short duration make it an accessible introduction to Florida’s underwater environment. However, children under 8 or pregnant women should consider other options, as safety is a priority.

Those who enjoy photo opportunities and want a professional guide to enhance their experience will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Family-Friendly Snorkeling Adventure

The Lower Grand Lagoon Guided Snorkeling Tour offers an affordable and enjoyable way to explore the underwater world of Panama City Beach. With a professional instructor, all equipment, and free photos, it delivers a safe and memorable experience suitable for beginners and families alike. The Jetties location provides a rich variety of marine life in a scenic setting, making it a standout activity in the area.

While the park entry fee is not included, the overall value—especially with personalized guidance and photos—makes this a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to discover Florida’s marine treasures. If you enjoy aquatic adventures with a relaxed pace and small group atmosphere, this snorkeling tour is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is swimming skills required for this snorkeling tour?
Swimming skills are not required, but basic water comfort is beneficial to fully enjoy the experience.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, an instructor, and complimentary photos and videos taken with a GoPro.

How do I find the meeting point?
You meet at the pavilion with picnic tables at the Jetty parking lot in St. Andrews State Park, following signs past the alligator pond.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility.

Who should avoid this tour?
This activity is not suitable for children under 8 years old or pregnant women due to safety considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby