Shell Island is a state preserve located on the emerald coast, known for its picturesque scenery and isolation. It's a hidden getaway for surfers looking for a break away from the crowds. The spot you’ll want to check out is on the east side of the east jetty, right across from a spot called Amazons. It’s a beautiful place, but keep in mind that you’ll need to take a boat from the St. Andrews boat ramp to access it.

The surf here offers a solid wedging peak, with both lefts breaking toward the jetty and rights going away from it. The waves can be steep, hollow, and present an A-frame shape, which makes it quite fun for more experienced surfers. It handles swell sizes from about 1.5 meters to 1.8 meters (5 to 6 feet) and you’ll find that it works best during the winter and spring months after cold fronts have rolled through. Pay attention to the tides; they can really change the nature of the wave. A light incoming tide or a slack tide tends to be favorable, while you can expect solid paddles over sand and jetty bottoms unless you’re hitching a ride on a boat.

The general crowd factor here is pretty low, so you won’t have to battle for waves most days. The local vibe can be average to heavy, so just be respectful out there. As for hazards, just watch out for normal sea life like sharks and jellyfish. It’s definitely a spot for intermediate to expert surfers, and shortboards or fish are the boards of choice here. When the swell is good, it can be a real treat!