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The Best Times to Low Tide Loot or Snorkel Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Island is one of the most beautiful and shell-rich barrier islands in Southwest Florida - but what many visitors don’t realize is that the experience can be completely different depending on the tide and water conditions . Some days are perfect for combing newly exposed sandbars for shells, while other days are ideal for slipping into the water and exploring what lies just beneath the surface. Knowing when each of these conditions happens  is the key to making the most of a visit to Keewaydin. When Low Tides Reveal the Shells The absolute best time to search for shells on Keewaydin is during negative low tides - those special moments when the water level drops lower than the typical low-tide line. These extra-low tides tend to occur: Around sunrise in the winter months Around sunset in the summer months During these tides, the tidal coefficient  (the difference between high tide and low tide) is very large (70+). That means water is moving in and out of the area with tremendous force. As the tide rushes out, it pulls water away from the island quickly, exposing wide sandbars and sections of seafloor that are normally underwater . This dramatic drop reveals areas that are usually hidden beneath the Gulf. Shells that were buried or drifting in deeper water suddenly appear across the exposed sand and mud flats. For shell hunters, this is when the beach can feel like a treasure field. The flip side of these extreme tides is the very strong current  they create. Water can move rapidly through passes and along the shoreline, which makes swimming or snorkeling unsafe and impractical. In many areas there’s barely enough water to float in anyway - because the ocean has simply pulled too far away. But for shell collectors, that’s exactly the magic moment: the Gulf has stepped back and revealed its treasures. When Keewaydin Becomes Perfect for Snorkeling Snorkeling around Keewaydin requires almost the opposite set of conditions . Instead of dramatic tidal swings, the best snorkeling happens when: The difference between high and low tide is small (low coefficient on tide chart 40 and below) Currents are mild and slow The water is calm and clear And the Gulf is warm enough to comfortably swim These conditions are most common between March and October , when water temperatures rise and calmer weather patterns settle in. On these days, the Gulf often becomes glassy and transparent. With the current moving gently instead of ripping through the area, the sand stays settled and visibility improves. That’s when snorkelers can easily spot partially buried shells, sand dollars, fish, and other marine life  just beneath the surface. Rather than walking across exposed sandbars, the experience becomes one of floating quietly over the seafloor , scanning the bottom for hidden shells and underwater treasures. Two Completely Different Faces of the Island What makes Keewaydin so fascinating is how dramatically it changes with the tides. On extreme low-tide days, the island expands outward as sandbars appear and the Gulf retreats. The landscape opens up, revealing shell beds that were underwater just hours before. On calm, gentle-tide days, the water settles and clears, creating a window into the underwater world surrounding the island. Both moments are special in their own way. Keewaydin simply has two different personalities - one revealed when the tide pulls away, and another when the Gulf becomes calm and clear. The secret is just being there at the right time and under the right conditions .

Most Keewaydin shelling boat tours launch from Bayview Park (near downtown Naples), located at: 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34112 🚨 Parking is EXTREMELY limited!  🚨 We highly  recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/Uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. A general rule of thumb: if the skies are gray or rainy, you’ll have no problem finding a parking spot. But if it’s a gorgeous sunny day, plan to Uber—parking fills up fast on those picture-perfect days. - Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled launch time to ensure you find parking. - Parking inside the park is $10 and paid via your phone, no app needed. Your payment covers your parking for the entire day of your tour. - Just text the number on the sign or scan the code. Mobile Pay-to-Park signs to look for - If main parking area is full you may have to utilize street parking outside the park on Danford Street or possibly Hamilton Avenue (a long walk to the park). - If main parking area is full and street parking is full or too far, my best recommendation would be to park at a nearby plaza and uber from there: Publix at the Shops at Hammock Cove ( 4370 Thomasson Dr, Naples, FL 34112). This is 3.0 miles from Bayview Park. (Safest option.) McDonald's at the GulfGate Plaza (2886 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, FL 34112). This is 2.8 miles from Bayview Park. (Kinda sketchy.) The dock is just on the left! This is the covered Pavilion where you'll meet - restrooms are on the right side A view of Hamilton Harbor Yacht Club from Bayview Park

All Ten Thousand Islands shelling boat tours launch from Goodland Boat Park (a stone's throw from Marco Island!), located at: 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140 🚨 Parking is EXTREMELY limited!  🚨 There are only 23 car parking spaces. We highly recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. A general rule of thumb: if the skies are gray or rainy, you’ll have no problem finding a parking spot. But if it’s a gorgeous sunny day, plan to Uber—parking fills up fast on those picture-perfect days! If you do drive, here are some important tips: - Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled launch time to ensure you find parking. - Parking inside the park is $10 and paid via your phone, no app needed. Your payment covers your parking for the entire day of your tour. - I strongly recommend pre-paying elsewhere on the date of your tour because the cell service at Goodland Boat Park is very iffy. Just text the number on the sign or scan the code. Mobile Pay-to-Park at Goodland - If main parking area is full you may have to utilize overflow parking outside the gate (see below graphic). No fee to park in the Overflow parking area. - If both main parking area and overflow are full, see below for Emergency Parking suggestion (see below graphic).

Guided seashell adventures on Naples Marco Island beaches with SWFL Shell Guide. Explore the Ten Thousand Islands, Kice Island, and Keewaydin with Ali and discover rare seashells on Marco Island shelling tours. Welcome aboard THE SWFL SHELL GUIDE SEASHELL Tour Experience! Join us for Guided Seashell Adventures along the stunning Naples Marco Island beaches as we explore the enchanting world of seashells and coastal wonders with SWFL Shell Guide's Boat Tours. Immerse yourself in captivating adventures set against the backdrop of Southwest Florida's pristine landscapes in the Naples Marco Island beaches. Whether you're drawn to the guided shellventures of the Ten Thousand Islands or the excitement of a beachcombing expedition to Keewaydin Island, we have the perfect tour to fulfill your desires. Embark on a journey with us, we offer both shared and private boat tour options that let you embrace the beauty of SWFL's shorelines while uncovering stunning seashells. Ali, your experienced and passionate sheller guide who founded SWFL Shell Guide in 2018, invites you to join her on an extraordinary tour where every step is a discovery and every shell is a treasure waiting to be found. Come, let us take you on an unforgettable shelling escapade, where the shores of Southwest Florida unfold their magic. Book your perfect SWFL Tour today and create lasting memories in this enchanting coastal paradise! BOOK NOW KNOW BEFORE YOU GO GIFT Card for tours MEET YOUR GUIDE amazon PICKS SHELLING BOAT TOURS swfl shell guide MERCH shop VIDEOS RAVE REVIEWS Frequently asked questions GIFT CARD for merch SEASHELL ID CONTACT SWFL Shell Guide has been honored with the 2026 & 2025 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards! That means we’re in the top 10% of attractions worldwide, all thanks to YOU—our amazing guests who’ve left kind reviews and supported us along the way. KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK: Shared vs. Private Tours Cancellation Policy Guest Requirements & Guidelines

Join SWFL Shell Guide Ali for an unforgettable shelling tour to Naples' Keewaydin Island, one of Southwest Florida’s top shelling destinations. Discover rare seashells and enjoy the pristine beauty of this unique island BOOK NOW Keewaydin Unguided Shell Tour Best Shelling Tour Naples Marco Island Ten Thousand Islands (14) Albino Whelk Shell really pops! Seashells from Ali's SWFL Shell Guide tour to Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Unguided Shell Tour 1/19 KEEWAYDIN LOW TIDE SHELLING SHARED 4 hr Keewaydin Island - Rare Tides, Rare Finds This guided seashell adventure lets you comb the exposed sandbars of Keewaydin - one of the most beautiful Naples Marco Island beaches. This special tour is only offered on select days when super low - and sometimes even negative low - tides transform the southern tip of Keewaydin Island into a massive exposed sandbar. No swimming is required; the water will be so shallow that seashells sit glistening on the sand, waiting to be discovered. Cruise with a licensed, insured captain through the Ten Thousand Islands backwaters, where dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds often make appearances. Once we reach the island, you’ll have time to roam the sandbar at your own pace - whether you’re up for an active shell hunt or a laid-back beach stroll. Treasures you might uncover include conchs, tulips, whelks, sand dollars, and, if luck is on your side, the elusive Junonia. This experience is tide-dependent and only available a handful of times per year, making it truly rare and unforgettable. The 4-hour outing includes about 35 minutes of scenic boat ride each way. Launch point (either Bayview Park in Naples or Goodland Boat Park near Marco Island) will be confirmed the day before your trip. Don’t miss your chance to explore one of Southwest Florida’s best shelling spots - revealed only by the rarest tides! See Availability & Book Your Shellventure – Spots Fill Fast! BOOK NOW LAUNCH LOCATION All boat tours to Keewaydin Island launch from: Bayview Park 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34113 (Restrooms on site. No store or showers.) Parking is EXTREMELY limited! We highly recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. If you drive, be sure to read the Bayview Parking Guide . Parking Fee: $10 via mobile pay-to-park system Check the Gmail sent day before tour for meetup location. Important Parking Notes: Parking is not an issue on rainy days! Finding a parking spot on weekends Feb-April is near impossible WHAT TO BRING LONG-SLEEVE WATER SHIRT WATER S HOES DRY BAG FOR PHONE/KEYS SUNSCREEN SUNGLASSES HAT TOWEL PREFERRED FOOD/SNACKS PLASTIC BOX FOR FRAGILE FINDS CHAIR/UMBRELLA FOR REST/SHADE PHONE/CAMERA FOR PICS CASH TIP FOR CAPTAIN/CREW Be sure to wear close-toed water shoes! The terrain is a nice sandy beach, but there could be sharp things you don't wanna step on barefooted! There's no shade from the blazing sun on Keewaydin! Be sure to bring sun protection: long-sleeve water shirt, lotion, cream, sunglasses, hats, even an umbrella to create your own shade if needed - whatever you use! Of course, feel free to bring your own desired food and beverages. No tools are really necessary, but you're free to bring your preferred shelling tools such as scoopers, diggers, walking sticks, etc! I do provide hand rakes to each guest if there are any piles to dig! Keewaydin is the ideal spot to use a water pitcher as an underwater viewer! If you love fragile beach finds (sand dollars, urchins, crab carapaces) you'll want to keep them separate from the shells which can easily break them. Bring a plastic box to keep the fragile stuff safe! Good idea to bring insect repellent if those pesky no-seeums love you. No-seeums can be problematic during very early morning or near-sunset evening times of day, and seem to be especially prevalent whenever there are shell piles. Check out a few of my fav shelling gear, tools, products, and displays listed here ! (Not necessary to bring with you, but helpful if you want your own or to know where I got mine!) WHAT YOUR Captain or GUIDE PROVIDES WATER BOTTLES SOUVENIR SHELLING BAG STICKER SHEET SHELL ID CARD Guide provides water bottles and snacks (trail mix) for each guest, so please don't be shy! Ask for water/snacks as often as you like - the more you take, the lighter my load! Each guest will also receive a complimentary custom-designed (by yours truly) shell bag, which we will set to work filling with seashell treasures (collecting only empty shells, of course)! If you're lucky enough to book a tour when there are piles of shells (as opposed to smatterings), hand rakes are provided for your use in raking thru the piles. Side note: Ali’s got a full online merch shop of SWFL shell accessories she designed! Order ahead and she’ll bring it to your tour so you can skip shipping! KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK: Keewaydin: Low Tide Shelling vs. Snorkeling The Best Times to Low Tide Loot or Snorkel Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Island is one of the most beautiful and shell-rich barrier islands in Southwest Florida - but what many visitors don’t realize is that the experience can be completely different depending on the tide and water conditions . Some days are perfect for combing newly exposed sandbars for shells, while other days are ideal for slipping into the water and exploring what lies just beneath the surface. Knowing when Cancellation Policy Please Read Carefully! We go out in all kinds of weather—rain, wind, heat, or cold—so bring what you need to be comfortable. We only... Guest Requirements & Guidelines On our Guided Seashell Adventures, you’ll traverse beautiful Naples Marco Island beaches, hike, wade and beachcomb - so bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a big sense of adventure. To ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment, please take note of the following guest requirements and recommendations: 1. Boarding and Disembarking: - Guests should be able to easily step on and off the boat, occasionally climbing ladders for access. - Comfort in the water and basic swim OTHER GOOD TO KNOW STUFF: Parking Guide: Bayview Park Most Keewaydin shelling boat tours launch from Bayview Park (near downtown Naples), located at: 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34112 🚨 Parking is EXTREMELY limited! 🚨 We highly recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/Uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. A general rule of thumb: if the skies are gray or rainy, you’ll have no problem finding a parking spot. But if it’s a gorgeous sunny day, plan to Uber—parking fills up fast on those picture-perf About Keewaydin Island The Storied Past and Shelling Allure of Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Island, a pristine barrier island stretching roughly eight miles off... Guided vs. Unguided Boat Tours Discover the difference between guided and unguided shelling tours—choose the shellventure that fits your pace, experience, and shelling style in SWFL! Is Tipping Included? What to Budget for Gratuity I'm often asked whether it is appropriate to tip the Guide and/or Captain, and what a reasonable amount might be. While I have considered... Seasonal Shelling Considerations Planning Your Shellventure in Southwest Florida Best Seasons, Conditions, and What to Expect If you’re planning a shelling excursion in... Nearest Airport & Accommodations for Your Trip Where can I fly into for the tours? If you're new to Southwest Florida, the nearest regional airport is Southwest Florida International...

Snorkel Keewaydin Island on calm tide days! Shell hunt in clear warm Gulf waters. For confident swimmers, March–October only. BOOK NOW Snorkel Keewaydin Shell Tour Huge Horse Conchs found at Keewaydin Seashells from Ali's SWFL Shell Guide tour to Keewaydin Island February Shelling at Keewaydin Island Seashells from Ali's SWFL Shell Guide tour to Keewaydin Island Snorkel Keewaydin Shell Tour 1/21 KEEWAYDIN SNORKEL SHELLING SHARED 4 HR Keewaydin Island - Snorkel the Shallows Dive into a different kind of Keewaydin adventure! This guided snorkeling tour is only offered on select dates when the tides are moderate and currents are calm - making conditions safe and enjoyable for exploring underwater. Unlike our rare low-tide shelling trips, these snorkeling days are not offered on negative low tides, when the water rushes way too strongly. Cruise with a licensed, insured captain through scenic backwaters to the southern end of Keewaydin Island, where clear Gulf waters invite you to slip beneath the surface. Here, you’ll snorkel over sandbars in search of empty, buried shells. This trip is for confident swimmers only, and you’ll need to bring your own mask and snorkel. Most tours run March through October, when the Gulf is warm enough for comfortable snorkeling and visibility is at its best. (Not available in winter months.) The 4-hour excursion includes about 35 minutes of boat travel each way. Departure point (Bayview Park in Naples or Goodland Boat Park near Marco Island) will be confirmed the day before your trip. If you love the water and the thrill of shell hunting under the surface, this is your chance to experience Keewaydin Island in a whole new way - up close and underwater! BOOK NOW LAUNCH LOCATION This Keewaydin Island Shelling Boat Tour has two possible launch locations, so be sure to check your email for the correct launch spot the day before your tour! Bayview Park . Address: 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34113. Parking Fee: $10 via mobile pay-to-park system G oodland Boat Park . Address: 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140. Parking Fee: $10 via mobile pay-to-park system Car spaces are extremely limited at both parks! All guests are strongly urged to ride-share, taxi/uber, or get dropped off at the park! There are restrooms at both parks, but no stores and no showers. WHAT TO BRING SNORKEL MASK & GEAR LONG-SLEEVE WATER SHIRT WATER S HOES DRY BAG FOR PHONE/KEYS SUNSCREEN SUNGLASSES HAT TOWEL PREFERRED FOOD/SNACKS PLASTIC BOX FOR FRAGILE FINDS PHONE/CAMERA FOR PICS CASH TIP FOR CAPTAIN/CREW Be sure to wear close-toed water shoes! The terrain is a nice sandy beach, but there could be sharp things you don't wanna step on barefooted! There's no shade from the blazing sun on Keewaydin! Be sure to bring sun protection: long-sleeve water shirt, lotion, cream, sunglasses, hats, even an umbrella to create your own shade if needed - whatever you use! Of course, feel free to bring your own desired food and beverages. No tools are really necessary except of course your snorkel mask! Using a hand rake underwater helps dig up buried shells and also gives you something to latch onto in case of a current! Good idea to bring insect repellent if those pesky no-seeums love you. No-seeums can be problematic during very early morning or near-sunset evening times of day, especially back at the ramp. Check out a few of my fav shelling gear, tools, products, and displays listed here ! (Not necessary to bring with you, but helpful if you want your own or to know where I got mine!) WHAT YOUR Captain or GUIDE PROVIDES WATER BOTTLES SOUVENIR SHELLING BAG STICKER SHEET SHELL ID CARD Guide provides water bottles for each guest, so please don't be shy! Each guest will also receive a complimentary custom-designed (by yours truly) shell bag, which we will set to work filling with seashell treasures (collecting only empty shells, of course)! Side note: Ali’s got a full online merch shop of SWFL shell accessories she designed! Order ahead and she’ll bring it to your tour so you can skip shipping! KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK: Keewaydin: Low Tide Shelling vs. Snorkeling The Best Times to Low Tide Loot or Snorkel Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Island is one of the most beautiful and shell-rich barrier islands in Southwest Florida - but what many visitors don’t realize is that the experience can be completely different depending on the tide and water conditions . Some days are perfect for combing newly exposed sandbars for shells, while other days are ideal for slipping into the water and exploring what lies just beneath the surface. Knowing when Cancellation Policy Please Read Carefully! We go out in all kinds of weather—rain, wind, heat, or cold—so bring what you need to be comfortable. We only... Guest Requirements & Guidelines On our Guided Seashell Adventures, you’ll traverse beautiful Naples Marco Island beaches, hike, wade and beachcomb - so bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a big sense of adventure. To ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment, please take note of the following guest requirements and recommendations: 1. Boarding and Disembarking: - Guests should be able to easily step on and off the boat, occasionally climbing ladders for access. - Comfort in the water and basic swim OTHER GOOD TO KNOW STUFF: Parking Guide: Bayview Park Most Keewaydin shelling boat tours launch from Bayview Park (near downtown Naples), located at: 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34112 🚨 Parking is EXTREMELY limited! 🚨 We highly recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/Uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. A general rule of thumb: if the skies are gray or rainy, you’ll have no problem finding a parking spot. But if it’s a gorgeous sunny day, plan to Uber—parking fills up fast on those picture-perf About Keewaydin Island The Storied Past and Shelling Allure of Keewaydin Island Keewaydin Island, a pristine barrier island stretching roughly eight miles off... Guided vs. Unguided Boat Tours Discover the difference between guided and unguided shelling tours—choose the shellventure that fits your pace, experience, and shelling style in SWFL! Is Tipping Included? What to Budget for Gratuity I'm often asked whether it is appropriate to tip the Guide and/or Captain, and what a reasonable amount might be. While I have considered... Seasonal Shelling Considerations Planning Your Shellventure in Southwest Florida Best Seasons, Conditions, and What to Expect If you’re planning a shelling excursion in... Nearest Airport & Accommodations for Your Trip Where can I fly into for the tours? If you're new to Southwest Florida, the nearest regional airport is Southwest Florida International...