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Shelling is a wonderful hobby that kids can enjoy—but not every child is ready for the kind of “shellventure” this tour offers. Our tours are best suited for children age 6 and older  who can stay engaged for several hours and safely handle uneven natural terrain. Do I need to pay for a seat for my infant/toddler? Yes—all passengers, regardless of age, are required to have a paid seat. U.S. Coast Guard regulations count every human on board , including infants and toddlers. Even a 2-day-old would need a ticket (and a properly fitted life jacket, which children age 6 and under must wear while on the boat). During the tour, we disembark on remote barrier islands where the conditions can be physically demanding— uneven terrain, sharp broken shells, soft sand banks, sinking sand or even slippery muck, direct sun, and no restrooms or shade . Kids will need to walk for extended periods, sometimes in soft sand, shallow water, or mucky, stump-filled terrain—all while searching for shells. Fun for little explorers, but often too tiring for very young children, which is also tiring for parents who may need to carry them. We travel by boat, so children should be comfortable wearing a life vest , sitting calmly during the ride, and listening to safety instructions. That said, many families have brought school-aged children who’ve had an amazing time exploring the Ten Thousand Islands, spotting dolphins, and hunting for shell treasures. Kids who love nature, wildlife, or scavenger hunts  are often totally captivated by the experience. If your child is easily bored, sensitive to heat, or likely to struggle with walking long distances, this may not be the best fit— at least not yet . Ultimately, you know your child best. Please consider their age, attention span, physical abilities, and interest in nature  before booking. We want the experience to be safe, enjoyable, and memorable for everyone. And if your young shellventurer is ready for an adventurous, hands-on day off the beaten path—we’d love to have you both aboard!

To keep things simple, I hand-edit and post only the best tour photos (and videos) to my social media. Feel free to screenshot or download or share any photos you’d like from there! I don’t send out additional photos or links beyond what is shared publicly. Want to see if you made the highlight reel? Follow along on social media and book your tour today —you might be the next featured shellebrity!   🐚📸

Got Shells - Now What? Conchgratshellations on collecting some spectacular treasures after your amazing Ten Thousand Islands shelling boat tour! Most shells found on tour are already naturally clean and may just need a quick rinse and polish! Other times... they may need a bit more elbow grease to remove barnacles, stains, or smells. If you’ve never cleaned seashells before, you will want to soak your treasures in a bleach-water solution in a bucket or sink.  1 part bleach to 3 parts water usually works well - and will kill any germs and help loosen barnacles.  Soaking in bleach water will not harm your shells or take away any of their natural color (Note: this does not apply to sand dollars, crab carapaces, and starfish!)  After soaking for 2-3 days, allow them to air dry, then use a cloth to polish each shell with mineral oil - this will bring out the shell’s natural shine and vibrant colors! Now you’re ready to display on a shelf, in a vase, or however else you like!   Smelly Shell Tips: Winter months bring in loads of shells, many freshly empty.  This means there may likely be remnants of soft-body tissue way up in the tip or whorl of the shell, which will SMELL - Florida Cones are the worst culprits!  Before soaking in the bleach water solution you'll want to BLAST out and remnants stuck in the very tip of the whorl. A strong water hose or pick works well for this! Then soak a bit longer than usual - change out the bleach water solution every couple of  days! Smelly Hands or Clothes: Winter shelling got you smelling?  Pour a little (or a lot!) of vinegar on your hands to get rid of that stench.  Add vinegar to your laundry detergent as well!     When to Use Muriatic Acid (or Acid Magic): Muriatic acid can be used to clean seashells that are heavily encrusted with calcium deposits, rust stains, or barnacles, but it should be used with extreme caution. To use it safely, dilute the acid by mixing one part muriatic acid with ten parts water in a well-ventilated outdoor area— always  add acid to water, never the reverse. Wearing gloves and eye protection, briefly dip the shell into the solution for just a few seconds, then immediately rinse it thoroughly with fresh water. This method should only be used on hard, durable shells (like whelks or conchs) and never on fragile, polished, or colorful shells, as the acid can damage or dull their appearance.

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 including gratuities in the overall tour cost, I believe recognizing "exshellent" service is a personal matter. Tipping is not included in the cost of your tour. Although it is not compulsory, tipping is expected as an expression of satisfaction with your Guide and/or Captain who have worked hard to provide you with an exceptional experience. If you felt that your Guide and/or Captain did an "exshellent" job, tipping is appreciated and "whelkcomed"! The amount is entirely up to you, but as a guideline, 10%-20% of the tour cost per guest is a good benchmark. The gratuity is then divided among your Guide and Captain (or just the Captain if your tour is unguided). Cash is always appreciated, but in this day and age, it may be challenging to find an ATM or carry cash. Neither Goodland nor Bayview launch locations have an ATM machine. Venmo is a great alternative though and most captains have a QR code you can scan!

Both sunrise and sunset tours have their perks—and the best choice depends on your preferences, the season, and the tides. Here’s how to decide which might be right for you: 🌅 Sunrise Tours: Perfect for early risers and winter visitors. Pros: First to the shells:  Being the first on the beach often means first pick of the treasures! Easy parking:  You’ll beat the crowds and have your pick of spots. Cooler temps:  Ideal in warmer months to avoid midday heat. Gorgeous sunrises:  Peaceful, glowing skies to start your day. Best option in winter:  Low tides happen early during cooler months, so this is when the best shelling window opens. 🌇 Sunset Tours: Ideal for night owls or summer shellers. Pros: Tide advantage in summer:  Negative low tides often occur in the late afternoon or early evening—perfect for shelling! Cooler evenings:  Beat the summer heat with ocean breezes and shade. Less parking stress:  By late day, most charters and beachgoers have cleared out. Dramatic skies:  Sunset makes for stunning photos and serene vibes. Timed for the tide:  You may arrive when the tide is high but watch the water pull back mid-tour—often revealing shells right at your feet! The Bottom Line: If you're shelling in winter , sunrise  is usually best (and often the only tide window available). In summer , sunset  tours often align with negative low tides, offering great shelling opportunities and a cooler ride. Sunrise or sunset, the Ten Thousand Islands always deliver. Let the tide guide you—and happy shelling! 🐚 Booking a Tour with SWFL Shell Guide At SWFL Shell Guide, we offer both sunrise and sunset tours (as long as tides and weather allow) and help tailor each outing based on season, conditions, and your preferences. Whether you’re chasing Junonias at dawn or strolling the flats at dusk, we’ll help you make the most of your time in shelling paradise. 👉 See available tours and book your spot today

Planning Your Shellventure in Southwest Florida Best Seasons, Conditions, and What to Expect If you’re planning a shelling excursion in Southwest Florida, timing and conditions can make a big difference. Tours run year-round, but some seasons are better than others for finding those perfect shells. Here's what to expect throughout the year—and how to make the most of your trip. 🌴 Seasonal Shelling Overview Winter (November – February) Peak Shelling Season Cooler temps—layers recommended. Expect occasional rain or chilly wind. Morning low tides are common and great for shell access. Shells tend to be fresher and more abundant, especially after cold fronts or storms. Spot live Horse Conchs more often during this season. But… this is also peak tourist season: expect traffic, long waits, and higher lodging prices. January weather can range from sunny 70s to chilly 40s—bring warm gear just in case. Tours fill fast  January–March, often with waitlists. Important Note:  In Dec–Feb, the best low tides occur around sunrise , so tours are early in the day. Spring (March – May) Transition Season Starts cooler and wetter, ends warmer and more humid. Low tides shift—sometimes morning, sometimes afternoon (depends on the moon). Shelling improves after storms that stir up the water and bring shells ashore. Summer (June – October) Hot, Humid & Off-Peak Expect heat and humidity—hydration and sun protection are a must. Bugs (like no-see-ums) are out, especially at sunrise and sunset. Low tides typically happen around sunset —so many tours run later in the day. Shelling can be more difficult due to conditions, but: You may spot live Lightning Whelks. Shelling after strong storms  and during negative tides near full moons  can be amazing—but it often requires wading far out. June–October is the off-season : Lighter crowds and cheaper lodging. June & July:  Afternoon/evening tides are best. Mornings can be brutally hot and less fruitful for shelling. Nice breezes are common, and storms usually pass quickly. Fall (September – November) Pleasant Weather, Watch the Storms Lower humidity and milder temps = more comfortable tours. It’s still hurricane season—keep an eye on forecasts. Shelling is solid, especially after storms. August & September tend to be slow months  for visitors, which can make it tricky to reach tour capacity. Pro tip: Book a date that already has a few seats filled to help that trip go! 🐚 Shelling Success Tips Watch for Wind & Weather:  Strong onshore winds and passing storms often bring new shell deposits. Shelling after  a storm is typically best. Tide Timing is Key:  Look for negative low tides during full or new moons. Winter and summer are especially great for dramatic low tides. Avoid the Crowds:  For quieter beaches and better deals on lodging, aim for off-peak times (Mother’s Day through Labor Day). Winter = best shelling, but busiest season. ✨ Final Thoughts Shelling in Southwest Florida offers something special in every season. Whether you're drawn to the sunrise magic of winter tides or the stormy surprises of summer evenings, knowing what to expect helps you get the most out of your day on the islands. Happy shell hunting—there’s always treasure waiting in the sand. No matter the season, each brings its own unique shelling challenges and rewards— check out our available tours and book your perfect shellventure today !  🐚🌴

Seashells are the hard, protective exoskeletons of marine mollusks like snails, clams, scallops, and whelks—ocean-dwelling creatures that build and live in their shells for protection and support. When the animal dies or is eaten by a predator, the empty shell is often carried to shore by waves and tides, becoming a beautiful keepsake for beachcombers. These shells are mostly made of calcium carbonate, formed layer by layer as the mollusk grows, and often strengthened with natural proteins that add durability. What makes seashells especially fascinating is their incredible variety and precision. From perfectly coiled spirals to delicate fans and ridged cones, each species creates a shell with a specific shape and pattern passed down over millions of years. Some mollusks have been making nearly identical shells since the age of the dinosaurs. Shell coloration and pattern can serve purposes too—like camouflage or deterring predators—and are influenced by the mollusk’s diet and habitat. Seashells aren't just beautiful—they're also remarkably strong. Engineers and architects study their structures for inspiration, drawn to the way shells combine beauty, function, and resilience. Because they’re created slowly and naturally, each one tells a story of survival, adaptation, and deep ocean rhythms. It’s no wonder shells are often seen as symbols of independence, strength, and timelessness. On our shelling tours around Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands, most of the shells you’ll find are naturally empty and just waiting to be discovered—each one a small wonder of the sea.

Where can I fly into for the tours? If you're new to Southwest Florida, the nearest regional airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)  located in Fort Myers, Florida. Where do the tours launch from? All 10k Islands Shelling Tours launch from the Goodland Boat Park - 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140 . Keewaydin Tours may launch from Goodland, but more often than not, they launch from Bayview Park - 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34112 . Where can I stay near the launch sites? If you wish to stay near the tour launch sites, consider accommodations in the Naples or Marco Island area. Both locations are home to some world-class beach resorts, including: - JW Marriott - Hilton - Marco Beach Ocean Resort If luxury resorts aren't your style or are outside your budget, here are a few other options within a drivable distance: - Affordable hotels and motels in the Naples/Marco Island area - Vacation rentals offering a more personalized stay - Bed and breakfasts for a cozy, home-like experience These options provide a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay while you enjoy the beauty of Southwest Florida. Here are a few of my personal favorite accommodations (along with approx distance from Goodland Boat Park) : Safe Harbor Calusa Island  lodging - Goodland, FL (~0.2 miles) call 239.394.3668 Goodland Cottages  - Goodland, FL (~0.5 miles) Olde Marco Island Inn & Suites  - 100 Palm St, Marco Island, FL 34145 (~3.2 miles) Marco Island Lakeside Inn  - 155 1st Ave., Marco Island, FL 34145 (~4.9 miles) The Boat House Motel  - 1180 Edington Place, Marco Island, FL 34145 (~5 miles) Port of the Islands Resort  - 25000 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL (~11.5 miles) Hampton Inn & Suites  - 5146 Tamiami Trl East, Naples, FL 34113 (~19 miles) Staybridge Suites Naples-Marco Island  - 9401 Triangle Blvd, Naples, FL 34113 (~21 miles) Comfort Inn & Executive Suites  - 3860 Tollgate Blvd., Naples, FL 34114 (~23 miles) Holiday Inn Express - Naples South I-75  - 3837 Tollgate Blvd, Naples, FL 34114 (~23 miles) La Quinta Inn & Suites  - 185 Bedzel Circle, Naples, FL 34104 (~25 miles) Cove Inn on Naples Bay  - 900 Broad Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102 (~26 miles)

If you’re about to join on one of our coastal shellventures, you’re in for a treat as we explore the underwater world of shells. Today, we’re sharing a fun, eco-friendly, and creative way to enhance your shell-hunting experience: using a simple water pitcher as an underwater viewer. This DIY trick is perfect for spotting shells beneath the waves without having to don a mask and snorkel. Here’s how to do it! Why Use a Water Pitcher as an Underwater Viewer? A water pitcher, preferably one with a clear, flat bottom, can act as a window into the underwater world. By pressing the bottom of the pitcher into the water, you eliminate surface glare and ripples, giving you a crystal-clear view of the ocean floor. This method is budget-friendly, easy to use, and perfect for all ages, making it an ideal tool for our shell tours. Plus, it’s a sustainable choice that repurposes a common household item! What You’ll Need - A clear plastic or glass water pitcher with a flat bottom (avoid tinted or textured pitchers for best visibility). - Shallow, clear water - A keen eye for spotting shells! - Optional: A waterproof bag or container to collect your finds Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Water Pitcher 1. Choose the Right Pitcher       Select a pitcher with a wide, flat, and transparent bottom. A standard 1-2 quart pitcher works well. Ensure it’s clean and free of scratches that could obscure your view. 2. Find the Perfect Spot       Head to a shallow area of the beach where the water is calm and clear! Look for dark areas with clusters of buried shells or near any tree stumps and roots - anywhere shells are likely to hide. 3. Position the Pitcher       Hold the pitcher right side up so the bottom faces the water. Gently lower it into the water until the bottom is fully submerged, but keep the open end above the surface to prevent water from filling the pitcher. 4. Look Through the Bottom       Place your face close to the open end of the pitcher and peer through the submerged bottom. The flat surface cuts through the water’s glare, giving you a clear view of the ocean floor. Move slowly to scan for shells and other treasures buried below. 5. Spot and Collect Responsibly       Once you spot a shell, collect it after making sure it's empty. 6. Clean and Reuse       After your shellventure, rinse the pitcher with fresh water to remove salt and sand. It’s ready for your next tour or to be reused at home! Tips for Success - Timing is Key : Visit during low tide for the best visibility and access to shallow waters. - Stay Safe : Always be aware of your surroundings, including waves, currents, and marine life. - Enhance Your View : If the water is slightly murky, move slowly to avoid stirring up sediment. Patience is key! - Bring a Friend : Share the pitcher with a buddy to take turns spotting and collecting—it’s a fun group activity! Why We Love This Method at SWFL Shell Guide Using a water pitcher as an underwater viewer aligns with our mission to promote sustainable, low-impact shell hunting. It’s accessible, encourages curiosity, and lets you appreciate the beauty of the ocean without needing fancy equipment or a diving in with a mask. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter on tour as you share your finds with fellow shell enthusiasts! Ready to try this trick in person? Book a spot on a Keewaydin Tour now ! Happy shelling, and we can’t wait to see what you discover beneath the waves!

One of the most common questions we get on tours is: "Which beach is better for finding [insert dream shell here]?"  While the tides, storms, and luck always play a role, there are definitely patterns when it comes to where certain shell species are more commonly found. Whether you're on a mission for a massive Horse Conch, a dainty Alphabet Cone, or perfectly intact Sand Dollars, this quick guide will help you plan your next shelling adventure. Below is a helpful chart showing which shells tend to be more common in the Ten Thousand Islands  (like Kice Island and Dickman’s) versus Keewaydin Island . Shelling Hotspots Comparison Chart Shell Species Photo Ten Thousand Islands Keewaydin Island Florida Fighting Conch Year Round Year Round Large Horse Conch Winter Low Tides or After Big Wind Storm Summer Low Tides Large Lightning Whelk Low Tides or After big Wind Storm Low Tides Alphabet Cone Immediately after big wind storm Negative low tides Lace Murex Apple Murex Rose Murex Florida Cone Lettered Olive Banded Tulip True Tulip After big wind storm Low tides Oysters Arc Clams Spiny Jewel Box Sand Dollars Sand bars at low tides Shark Eye Gaudy Natica Paper Fig Angel Wing Pear Whelk Nutmeg Top Shells Got a specific shell on your bucket list? Book a tour and let me know — I’ll be happy to help you maximize your chances! Happy shelling, ~Ali SWFL Shell Guide