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I totally understand how frustrating it can be when you're excited to join a tour, but something in the booking process seems to be blocking your path. Here are the most common reasons guests get stuck and how to fix them: 1. Confused by the “Member ID” Field? No worries! The first screen of the booking system includes a space to enter a “Member ID.” This is only  for guests who have joined our Seasoned Sheller Membership Program  and have a discount code. You do not need a Member ID to book a tour. If you're not a member, just skip that field and move forward! 2. Can't find the “Continue” button on your phone? Sometimes the “Continue” or “Next” button doesn’t display correctly on mobile devices, especially in portrait mode. Try turning your phone sideways into landscape mode —this often reveals the missing button and allows you to proceed. 3. Party Size might be it. Some tours require a minimum number of guests before they can run. If the booking system isn’t allowing you to reserve your seats, it may be because that tour needs a certain group size to make the first  booking. Once that initial group meets the minimum requirement, the remaining seats will open up to any party size — including solo shellers. So if you don’t see availability right away, keep checking back! Guided tours are given priority on the schedule. You may see an Unguided tour listed for the same date, but smaller groups won’t be able to book it until the Guided tour reaches its minimum or fills up. All shared tours are limited to 6 guests per boat  due to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. To keep tours running efficiently, the booking system will not split guests into two smaller groups on the same date if they could be combined into one full boat. For example, even if you see 6 seats open on the Unguided tour and 2 seats open on the Guided tour, the system will prioritize filling the Guided tour first. Once that tour fills, the Unguided option becomes available for smaller parties. This helps prevent half-filled boats from running side-by-side when everyone could enjoy one fun, full shared experience together. Trying to book 2 seats but only see 1 left? Unfortunately, we are not able to increase the guest count beyond 6 due to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. If the system shows only 1 seat left, that means there truly is only 1 available. You can either wait to see if someone cancels, or look for another date with 2 or more seats open. We totally get that it's more fun with a friend - hopefully, you can both join on another day! 4. Missed a checkbox or skipped a question? Every checkbox and question on the booking form is required.  These are there to make sure you understand important safety info, waiver terms, and trip details. Double-check that you’ve checked every box  and entered answers  in all required fields before clicking “Continue.” 5. Still stuck? It might be a tech hiccup. If none of the above tips work, try: Refreshing the page Switching to a different browser (Chrome works great) Booking from a desktop or tablet instead of a phone Clearing your cache or trying in incognito/private mode 6. Waiting on Confirmation? Here's How It Works Once you complete your online booking request, you’ll receive an automated email  letting you know that a hold has been placed on your credit card - but you haven’t been charged just yet. Ali manually reviews and approves each booking. Once your tour is confirmed, your card will be charged, and you’ll receive a second email with your official booking confirmation . Please be patient! If Ali is out on the water guiding tours, she may not be able to review bookings right away. It can sometimes take 1–2 days  for approval, especially during busy weeks. Thanks for your understanding! If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to reach out ! I’m happy to help guide you through the process or manually reserve your spot if needed. Email or text is the fastest way to get a response. I can’t wait to sea you out there! 🐚⛵

Florida might sound  warmer than home on the forecast - “48°F!”- but trust us… Florida-cold hits different when you’re out on a boat, in the water standing in tidal flats, and dipping your hands in the chilly ocean snatching up those shells. For folks from the North, cold here doesn’t mean snow and ice, but the wind off the water, wet feet, and cold hands can make it feel  like it goes straight to your bones. Here’s how to layer up and stay warm on tour, even when temps drop. The Reality of “Florida Cold” It’s not blizzards. It’s cold wind + cold water + Humidity - and that chill is hard to kill! Dress for: The boat ride Standing in water Wet + windy conditions and you’ll be comfortable, focused, and still excited about that next amazing shell instead of just trying to survive the cold! 1. The Cold Boat Ride — This Is Where People Get Shocked Even if the air temp doesn’t look terrible, the boat ride is usually the coldest part of the day . You’re: Moving fast Surrounded by open water Getting hit with wind + occasional spray Sitting still (not generating body heat) That combo = wind chill that cuts right through you . What to Wear on the Boat (Even If You Take It Off Later) Windproof outer layer (CRUCIAL) - A light hoodie is not enough. You want something that blocks wind: Waterproof or windproof shell jacket Rain jacket (even if it’s not raining) Packable puffer under a shell on very cold days 👉 Search on Amazon: “packable windproof rain jacket men”  or “women’s waterproof shell jacket” Beanie or insulated headband - You lose a lot of heat from your head, especially in wind. 👉 Search: “fleece beanie”  or “thermal ear warmer headband” Neck gaiter / buff / scarf - This is a game changer on the boat. Pull it up over your chin and cheeks when the wind hits. 👉 Search: “fleece neck gaiter” Gloves or hand warmers for the boat ride (separate from shelling gloves) - Even basic insulated gloves make the ride way more comfortable. Rechargeable hand warmers work great too! 👉 Search: “insulated waterproof winter gloves” Kinco HydroFlector gloves (sold at Rural King, Tractor Supply, Walmart, etc) are the best gloves I've found for cold weather shelling, as they are high-performance, water-resistant, and thermal - designed for cold, wet conditions. Pro tip:  You might peel layers off once you’re walking and shelling - but you’ll want them again on the ride back. 2. Layer Your Clothing - The Key to Staying Warm Start with thermal base layers that keep your core warm without bulk: Men Under Armour Men's ColdGear Leggings  – Great thermal base layer for cold days on the water. (Also consider a wool or synthetic long-sleeve top underneath your layer.) Women Under Armour Women's Authentics Leggings  – Warm and moisture-wicking. 90 Degree by Reflex Cold‑Gear Fleece‑Lined Leggings  or Baleaf Cold Weather Leggings  – Excellent budget-friendly insulation. For a luxury option: Frost Duralite Women's Merino Wool Thermal Leggings  keeps you cozy even in really  brisk weather. Tip:  Avoid cotton - it traps moisture and chills you faster. Go for synthetics or wool blends instead. 3. Footwear & Socks - Critical for Cold Water Shelling Feet get cold fast when wet, and regular shoes just aren’t enough. Pair insulation with water resistance: Stormr Heavyweight Neoprene Socks  – Great neoprene insulation layer for cold water. Bare Exowear Socks  – Premium thermal socks if you need serious warmth under boots. Yikayin Neoprene Socks  or CAPAS 2mm Neoprene Water Socks  – Budget neoprene options that add warmth and grip. omgear 3mm Neoprene Water Socks  – A slightly thicker sock-style neoprene bootie. Cold-water footwear tip:  Traditional hiking boots or sneakers will get soaked and chill you faster. Neoprene booties or waterproof water-sport socks trap heat better and dry quickly. For deeper water or longer exposure, a full neoprene boot (5mm+) with a sole gives even  more warmth and traction on wet sand/rocks. 4. Gloves - Protect Your Extremities Cold hands make shelling painful. Regular gloves won’t cut it when wet, so aim for insulated, waterproof options: Kinco HydroFlector  gloves (sold at Rural King, Tractor Supply, Walmart, etc) are the best gloves I've found for cold weather shelling, as they are high-performance, water-resistant AND thermal - designed for cold, wet conditions. Gounod Thermal Insulated Cold Weather Gloves  – Great affordable pair for anyone. Toolant Waterproof Winter Work Gloves  – Warm waterproof insulated gloves. 3M Winter Gloves  – Thinsulate lining for extra warmth. Re-chargeable Hand Warmers Cold-water hand hack:  Consider waterproof  gloves or even neoprene dive gloves for shelling. Better yet, bring a long shell scoop  so you’re not dipping bare hands in cold water as often! 5. Head & Neck Warmth - Don’t Forget Them A hat can make all the difference: Winter Balaclava Face Mask  – Covers head and  neck. Ski Mask Balaclava  – Great value insulated cap with mask. M‑Tac Watch Cap Elite Fleece  – Simple fleece beanie that blocks wind. Keeping heat from escaping your head helps your whole body  stay warmer. 6. Other Warmth Tips for Shelling Tours Bring a Shell Scoop or Tongs Putting your hands in cold water repeatedly is going to be painful. A shell scoop, tongs, or waterproof gloves help you collect shells without constant cold exposure. Add Warm Layers Bring an insulated jacket or fleece for pre- and post-tour warmth. A windbreaker  over layers can block that chilly water breeze without overheating you. Pack a Thermos Hot coffee, tea, or cocoa before (or after!) your tour helps your core temperature feel toasty. Warm Towels & Changing Layers Have a dry towel and dry base layers ready for after the tour - once you’re wet, changing into warmth fast prevents chills. 7. Cold Water Keeps Draining Your Body Heat Even if you “feel fine,” standing in cool water slowly pulls warmth from your body. That’s why people suddenly feel frozen after 30–60 minutes. To slow heat loss: Wear neoprene on your feet Regular sneakers + cotton socks = cold misery. Neoprene traps a thin layer of water that your body warms - way better than soaked fabric. Best options: Neoprene booties (like wetsuit material) Neoprene water socks under sturdy water shoes 👉 Search: "3mm neoprene dive boots” or “neoprene water socks” Don’t keep dunking bare hands Cold water + wind = painful fast. Bring: Waterproof or neoprene gloves or A shell scoop / sand scoop so your hands aren’t in the water constantly 👉 Search: “long handle sand scoop” 8. THE AFTER-TOUR WARM-UP PLAN (People Forget This!) You might be fine during the tour… but once you stop moving, that cold hits hard. Plan your car like a warming station. Leave These in Your Car: Dry, thick socks - Putting on dry socks immediately feels AMAZING. 👉 Search: “merino wool hiking socks” Warm towel or blanket - Wrap your shoulders and legs as soon as you get back. 👉 Search: “fleece travel blanket” Dry base layer shirt - If your shirt got damp from spray or sweat, change fast. Slip-on warm shoes - Ugg-style, insulated slip-ons, or even thick-lined Crocs. Thermos with hot drink - Hot tea, coffee, or cocoa warms you from the inside. 👉 Search: “stainless steel insulated thermos” 9. Final Thoughts on Ways to Stay Warm Eat before the tour - Food = fuel = body heat. Avoid cotton - “Cotton kills” in cold conditions because it holds moisture. Choose: Wool Fleece Synthetic athletic fabrics Keep your core warm - Cold torso = cold everything. If your chest/back are warm, hands and feet stay warmer too. Chemical hand warmers (optional but awesome) - Toss them in jacket pockets for the boat ride. 👉 Search: “disposable hand warmers” Stay dry when possible - If waves splash you, zip up and block wind fast.

While you're here in SWFL check out some of my favorite other things to do (in no particular order): EATS Island Gypsy Cafe Shopping & Dining on 5th Ave S & 3rd St S LeeBe Fish Fin Bistro Best Gas Station Mexican Food: Uooligan Exxon Mobil at 861 Bald Eagle Dr on Marco NATURE Tigertail Beach Park Lowdermilk Beach Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens N aples Botanical Garden Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park Koreshan State Historic Park   Kayak Estero River Python Hunting in Everglades Everglades National Park   Airboat Rides in the Everglades Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium Manatee Park Babcock Ranch Eco Tours Shark Tooth Hunting at Manasota Key   Fossil Hunting in the Peace River HISTORICAL Ted Smallwood Store Collier Museum at Government Center Museum of the Everglades Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch Coral Castle Skunk Ape Research Headquarter Ochopee Post Office Edison & Ford Winter Estates SHOPPING Shopping & Dining on 5th Ave S & 3rd St S Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum 41 South Gift Hut Shops at Naples Tin City Kelly's Shell Shack Lunch at Island Gypsy Visit the historic Naples Pier Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland (Sunday Funday) Visit shops at Naples Tin City Kayak Estero River Corey Billie's Airboat Rides in Everglades Visit Ted Smallwood Store Museum Kelly's Shell Shack in Naples

Keewaydin Island and Kice Island are two of the most beautiful beach settings along the Naples Marco Island beaches, and they’re both featured on our guided (and unguided!) seashell adventures. If you’re booking a shelling tour with SWFL Shell Guide and trying to decide between the Ten Thousand Islands Tour (Kice Island is part of the Ten Thousand Islands park) and the Keewaydin Island Tour , you’re not alone - this is one of the most common questions I get. Both spots are stunning, boat-access-only shelling destinations, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right tour for your shelling style: 🐚 Ten Thousand Islands Tour Remote. Peaceful. Classic shelling. This is my most popular tour. The boat ride is 10-15 minutes each way. We land on a wild barrier island (like Kice Island ). It's undeveloped, uncrowded, and could be packed with shells that have already washed ashore. Key Details: Ride time:  ~10-15 minutes each way Shelling type:   Mostly land shelling  - shells are found on the higher wrack lines well up on the island. Protective and supportive footwear is a must. Prepare to hike a few miles. Main shells you're likely to find:  small whelks, olives, banded tulips, murex, fighting conchs Pros: ✅ Consistent shelling, year-round ✅ Quiet and remote ✅ Great variety of smaller, more colorful, high-quality shells ✅ Quick boat ride Cons: ⚠️ Uneven terrain full of tree roots, stumps, slippery muck, and other tripping obstacles - requires good mobility ⚠️ No amenities, no shade, this is a true nature outing 🌴 Keewaydin Island Tour Scenic. Busy. Great on negative tides. Keewaydin  is a long, sandy island just north of Marco Island. It’s stunning - and on the right tide  (especially a negative low), it can produce huge  shells (both in size and quantity). You’ll spend most of your time shelling in very shallow water , where BIG horse conchs and alphabet cones may be just below the surface. Pro tip:  Bring a clear water pitcher to help you see underwater shells more easily! Key Details: Ride time:  ~40–45 minutes each way Shelling type:   Mostly shallow water shelling  - bring a water pitcher  and plan to get your feet wet Shells you might find:  LARGE horse conchs, alphabet cones, banded tulips Atmosphere:  Expect lots of boaters and beachgoers, especially on weekends Pros: ✅ Potential for very large shells ✅ Best conditions on negative low tides ✅ Beautiful beach and sandbar environment Cons: ⚠️ Long boat ride ⚠️ Very short shelling window (length of time the tide is out far enough) ⚠️ Crowds, especially weekends (party boats, music, etc.), and LOTS of shellers on those low tide dates ⚠️ Parking tip:  Bayview Park fills up quickly on weekends - park at Gulf Gate Plaza and take an Uber/Lyft to the dock Side-by-Side Comparison Feature Ten Thousand Islands Keewaydin Island Boat Ride Time ~15 minutes ~40–45 minutes Shells Usually Found On land, up on shore In shallow water Shelling Conditions Consistent year-round Best on negative tides Shell Types Olives, murex, tulips, small whelks, fighting conchs, scallops Giant horse conchs, alphabet cones, tulips, scallops Crowds Quiet and remote Busy, especially on weekends Mobility Needs Walk involves maneuvering thru tree roots and stumps, uneven, slippery terrain Easier walking, mostly flat sandbars Best For Focused shellers & nature lovers Big shell hunters & beachgoers Which Tour Should You Book? Choose the Ten Thousand Islands Tour  if you're after a quiet, remote shellventure with great land finds and minimal crowds. Choose the Keewaydin Island Tour  if you're okay with a longer boat ride and want a chance at big  shells - especially if you're booking on a negative tide day and don't mind a more social, lively atmosphere. Still not sure? Contact me  and I’ll help you decide based on the tides, weather, and what kind of shelling day you’re hoping for. Dickmans - part of Ten Thousand Islands Keewaydin sandbars exposed at negative low tide Kice Island - part of Ten Thousand Islands Kice Island - part of Ten Thousand Islands After a storm Kice Island gets shell piles Lots of roots and stumps and hiding places for shells on Kice Island Extreme negative low tide at Keewaydin! May 2025

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 swimming skills are necessary. 2. Mobility:    - Participants should confidently embark and disembark from the boat with minimal assistance.    - A HIGH level of fitness and endurance is recommended.    - Participants should be able to hike 1-3 miles, sometimes navigating in shallow, mucky or murky water and oftentimes over challenging tree-filled terrains and soft or sloping sandy terrains or muddy slippery terrains.    - Be ready to hike in diverse weather conditions and varying landscapes. 3. Health and Fitness:    - Guests should be in good health, capable of handling extreme elements like heat, cold, sun (no shade available), rain, humidity, rough terrain, and insects.    - Given the nature of the tour, individuals with health factors like age, obesity, heart disease, poor circulation, mobility challenges, and severe allergies are advised NOT to book.    - The weight limit for boat tour participants is 300 pounds. Exceptions may be considered for individuals in optimal shape and fitness. If unsure, feel free to reach out for clarification. 4. Self-Sufficiency:    - While water and snacks are provided, guests should actively stay hydrated and maintain optimal blood sugar levels. 5. Understand How to Stay Safe In Hot Weather: - Shelling on shore in extreme heat poses risks to the body's cooling mechanisms. Factors like individual health conditions can amplify these risks. Here are some essential tips:    a. Understand Humidity's Impact:    - Humidity slows down the body's natural cooling process.    - In humid conditions, sweat doesn't evaporate quickly, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.     b. Don't Rely Solely on Ocean Breezes:    - Coastal breezes might not penetrate a few feet inland, leaving areas hot and humid.     c. Dress Smart:    - Wear white or light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight.    - Choose moisture-wicking materials to keep the skin dry.     d. Pace Yourself:    - Take breaks and rest frequently to avoid exhaustion.    - Pace yourself to give yourself enough time to complete the tour comfortably.     e. Know Your Limits:    - Acknowledge that all outdoor activities carry risks.    - Be mindful of personal limits and avoid pushing beyond them. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities— please review these guidelines carefully before booking  to ensure you're prepared for the shellventure! Ready to shell safely and confidently?   Book your spot today!   🐚🌴

If you’ve been browsing the SWFL Shell Guide tour options, you may have noticed two different Keewaydin trips on the calendar: the Keewaydin Low Tide Shelling Tour  and the Keewaydin Snorkel Tour . Both are incredible ways to explore this beautiful barrier island - but they happen under very  different conditions! Low Tide Shelling Tours Our Low Tide Shelling Tours  are timed around negative low tides - those rare moments when the water level drops lower than the normal low tide mark. These extreme tides usually happen: Around sunrise in the winter months , and Around sunset in the summer months Because these low tides don’t happen often, the windows for this tour are limited - and that’s what makes them so special! During these events, the tidal coefficient (the difference between high and low tide) is very high, which means the current is incredibly strong . The water pulls away fast, revealing vast stretches of sandbars and seafloor that are normally underwater - prime territory for finding beautiful shells. It’s important to note: this is not the time for swimming or snorkeling!  The current on these days can be powerful enough to carry you away before you could grab a shell, and in most spots, there’s barely even enough water to snorkel anyway. But that’s the beauty of it - the shells are sitting right there, freshly uncovered by the tide. Snorkel Tours On the other hand, our Keewaydin Snorkel Tours  are offered only on a few select dates from March through October - when the conditions are perfect for exploring underwater. For snorkeling, we look for the opposite  of low-tide conditions: Mild currents  (a small difference between high and low tide) Clear, calm waters  for good visibility And of course, warm water temperatures ! These are the days when the Gulf is calm, the water is crystal-clear, and it’s safe and enjoyable to float, explore, and spot shells and marine life just below the surface. Two Totally Different Shellventures Both Keewaydin trips are incredible - just in very different ways. Low Tide Shelling  is for those who love scouring the exposed seafloor for rare finds. Snorkel Tours  are for those confident swimmers who want to see what’s hidden under  the surface when the Gulf is calm and welcoming. So whether you’re wading across a freshly exposed sandbar at sunrise or floating over a patch of slightly buried shells at noon, Keewaydin always has something amazing to offer - you just have to catch it at the right time on the right day! And don’t worry about keeping track of tides or conditions - if you see a Keewaydin tour offered on my booking calendar , you can trust it’s the right time and tide for that particular shellventure!

6 Smart Tips for What to Wear on a Shelling Tour (and What to Avoid) Dressing appropriately will keep you comfortable , protected , and ready for adventure  on your shelling tour. Between wading in saltwater, brushing past island brush, and being exposed to sun, bugs, and breeze, your outfit matters more than you think. Here’s what to wear - and what to avoid - to make the most of your day. 1. Wear Protective Water Shoes or Dive Booties (Avoid Flip-Flops and Laced Shoes) Slip-on water shoes, dive booties, or sturdy sandals with a back strap will protect your feet from sharp shells, oyster beds, and hot sand. Neoprene material with a thick sole and no laces are ideal. (Laces can snag on branches/ stumps and cause tripping). Why not flip-flops or sneakers?   Flip-flops offer zero protection and fall off easily in water. Laced shoes can get soggy, trap sand, and are prone to snagging on branches causing tripping. 2. Choose Quick-Dry, Fitted Bottoms Like Leggings or Rash Guard Shorts (Not Baggy or Heavy Pants) Fitted leggings or athletic shorts made from moisture-wicking fabric dry fast and won’t get waterlogged or snag on branches. Why skip flowy skirts or loose pants?   They catch on island brush, blow around in the wind, and can become uncomfortable when wet. 3. Cover Up with a Long-Sleeve UPF Shirt (Ditch the Tank Top or Bikini Top) Long-sleeve rash guards or sun shirts shield your arms from sunburn, bug bites, and unexpected scrapes. Why not minimal coverage?   Bikini tops and tanks leave too much skin exposed to UV rays, sand flies, and scratchy mangrove twigs. 4. Add Layers You Can Peel Off (Avoid Bulky Outerwear) Mornings can start breezy - bring a lightweight jacket or windbreaker that you can easily stow away once the sun’s up. Why not a big hoodie or heavy jacket? It’ll become a bulky burden to carry once it’s warm. 5. Wear a Hat That Stays Put and Polarized Sunglasses (Not a Floppy Hat That’ll Fly Off) A snug baseball cap, sun hat with a chin strap, or neck flap hat gives you sun protection that won’t blow away. Or, do what I do and use your neck gaiter as as a hat band to keep your hat secure while on the boat! Pair with polarized sunglasses to cut water glare and help you spot shells. Why skip floppy fashion hats or regular sunglasses?   Flimsy hats won't last a minute on a windy ride, and non-polarized shades won’t help you see into the water. 6. Think Smart with Accessories: Neck Gaiter, Bright Colors, and Bug Protection (Skip Camo and Dark Clothes) A neck gaiter doubles as sun protection, wind barrier, and even a hat anchor. Wear bright colors so you’re easy to spot in the mangroves. Why not dark or camo clothes?  They blend in with the island, making it harder for your guide or group to see you - especially from the boat. 🧦 Pro Tip: Wear Socks with Your Water Shoes. Yes, socks - really! A pair of regular sport socks will dramatically reduce your risk of blisters , especially if your water shoes are new and you've not broken them in. It may look a little funny, but your feet will thank you by the end of the tour. Dressing smart means a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable shelling experience. Looking for seashell-themed attire? I've got you covered! Check out my shop !

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 is $10 and paid via your phone—no app needed. Your payment covers 24 hours, and you can even pre-pay up to a week in advance. Just follow the signage when you arrive. 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

If you’ve strolled along the beaches of Southwest Florida, you might have spotted something that looks a little out of place among the shells and driftwood: a hard, round, grayish seed pod known as a sea bean . These mysterious little travelers have a story that stretches across oceans, carried by currents until they wash ashore on our coasts. Gray Nicker Nuts – The Common Sea Bean of SW Florida The sea beans most often found on Southwest Florida beaches are Gray Nicker Nuts  ( Caesalpinia bonduc ). Despite the name, they aren’t actually “nuts” but the seeds of a sprawling tropical vine. These vines grow in coastal thickets, often with thorny stems, and produce large, woody pods. Inside those pods are the smooth, gray seeds we know as nicker nuts. Nicker nuts are designed by nature to travel. With their tough, water-resistant coating, they can float in the ocean for months or even years without losing their ability to sprout. While they are native to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and even parts of Africa, ocean currents carry them to Florida’s beaches. Here in the Ten Thousand Islands and along the shore of Naples and Marco Island, gray nicker nuts are the most common sea beans you’ll find nestled in the wrack line among seaweed, mangrove propagules, and driftwood. Historically, nicker nuts were used as marbles or game pieces  in various cultures (the word “nicker” even comes from an old English word for marble). They’ve also been carried as good-luck charms, and some people still polish them for use in jewelry or as pocket keepsakes. Gray Nicker Nut Seeds Other Sea Beans Found in Florida While gray nicker nuts are the regular visitors on our coast, Florida’s beaches are known for turning up a variety of sea beans. Each one has its own journey and story: Sea Hearts  ( Entada gigas ) – Large, shiny, dark brown seeds shaped like hearts. They come from massive pods of tropical vines that grow in the rainforests of Central and South America. Sea hearts are among the most prized finds and are sometimes called “lucky beans.” Hamburger Beans  ( Mucuna  species) – Shaped and colored like little hamburgers, these brown-and-tan seeds are distinctive and easy to identify. They often drift across the Atlantic from the Caribbean or Central America. Sea Purses  ( Dioclea reflexa ) – Flat and leathery in appearance, these seeds resemble little purses. They typically originate from Africa or South America before drifting to our shores. Horse Eye Beans  ( Mucuna sloanei ) – Rounded, chestnut-brown seeds with a lighter “eye” mark. They’re a bit larger than nicker nuts and often polished for jewelry. While some of these beans are more common along the Atlantic side of Florida, especially the beaches influenced by strong Gulf Stream currents, every now and then they appear on Gulf Coast beaches too, a testament to just how far seeds can travel on the ocean’s highways. Why Sea Beans Are Special Sea beans remind us that the ocean connects distant places. A single seed that fell from a pod in the Amazon might spend months bobbing in waves before landing in the sand on a Florida beach, ready for a curious sheller to pick up. Collecting them isn’t just fun, it’s like holding a little piece of the world’s tropical forests in your hand. So next time you’re out shelling, keep an eye out for these smooth, gray, or glossy treasures. Whether it’s a humble nicker nut or a rare sea heart, every sea bean has traveled an incredible journey to end up at your feet. If you’d like to own a piece of the ocean’s story, I offer nickernut sea beans self-collected right here in Southwest Florida . You can find them in my shop ! Hamburger Sea Bean stands out among the Gray Sea Pearls Heart Sea Beans are incredibly rare finds in SWFL

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 24 hours, and you can even pre-pay up to a week in advance. - I strongly recommend pre-paying 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).