About Keewaydin Island

The Storied Past and Shelling Allure of Keewaydin Island

Keewaydin Island, a pristine barrier island stretching roughly eight miles off the coast of Naples, Florida, is a place where history, nature, and adventure converge. Only accessible by boat, it has remained largely untouched by development, preserving its wild character and making it a paradise for nature lovers and shellers alike.

The name “Keewaydin” comes from the Ojibwe word for “north wind,” a nod to the island's natural heritage and enduring spirit. Long before European settlers arrived, the Calusa—a powerful seafaring Native American tribe—inhabited the region. Known for their complex canal systems and coastal trade networks, the Calusa likely valued Keewaydin for its strategic location and rich marine life. Spanish explorers later visited the area in the 1500s, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that settlers began to make their mark.

In the early 20th century, Keewaydin became an elite hideaway for wealthy tourists and winter residents. Rustic fishing lodges and private retreats dotted the island, some of which still stand today. A failed attempt in the 1960s to build a causeway to the mainland sparked one of the area's earliest environmental debates, and the project was halted—helping preserve Keewaydin's natural landscape for future generations.

Today, Keewaydin Island remains blissfully off the grid, with no cars, roads, or bridges. It’s home to a handful of private residences and one of Southwest Florida’s most treasured natural environments. The island’s southern tip—nicknamed “Party Island” by locals—is a hotspot for weekend boaters who anchor in the shallows to swim, play music, and bask in the sun. While the festive atmosphere may not appeal to everyone, this same stretch transforms into a shelling mecca during rare negative low tides.

When the tide recedes just right, it reveals a sprawling sandbar covered in shells—an ephemeral moment that seasoned shellers dream of. Conchs, whelks, tulips, sand dollars, and even the elusive Junonia can be found here. Despite the crowds, those in the know understand that timing is everything. On the right day, even a busy beach can yield once-in-a-lifetime treasures.

Keewaydin’s wild beauty, layered history, and exceptional shelling conditions make it a must-visit destination for adventurous beachcombers. With every step along its shifting shoreline, you’re walking through centuries of coastal heritage—and if you're lucky, uncovering a piece of it to take home.