St. Andrews Bay (Florida)
St. Andrews Bay is a bay located in Bay County, Florida, on the Gulf Coast of the Florida Panhandle. It is a drowned river valley system fed by several creeks and springs. The bay comprises multiple sub-bays, including West Bay, North Bay, East Bay, and St. Andrews Bay proper.
Historically, St. Andrews Bay was a significant feature for both Native American populations and early European settlers. The city of Panama City, Florida, is located on its shores.
The bay is known for its diverse ecosystem, supporting a variety of marine life, including fish, shellfish, and various bird species. It is a popular location for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Water quality and environmental health are ongoing concerns due to factors like stormwater runoff, industrial activity, and development in the surrounding watershed. Efforts are continually made to monitor and improve the bay's ecological condition.