Search This Site

One of the most common questions I hear from Southwest Florida visitors is: "Where can I go shelling without taking a boat?" While some of the best shelling in Southwest Florida is found on remote islands that require a boat, there are still several excellent beaches in Collier and Lee Counties where you can park your car and start searching for shells. As someone who spends hundreds of days each year shelling Southwest Florida, I've learned that no beach produces consistently every day. Winds, tides, currents, storms, and beach renourishment projects all affect shelling conditions. However, if you're looking for the best shelling beaches you can drive to, these are my top recommendations, in no particular order: Lover's Key State Park (Fort Myers Beach) Address: 8700 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 Lover's Key is one of Southwest Florida's hidden shelling gems. While it's best known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and kayaking opportunities, shellers often find impressive shell lines along the Gulf shoreline—especially after periods of strong onshore winds. Because much of the park remains undeveloped, shells tend to accumulate naturally without the heavy foot traffic found on some of the more popular beaches. Common Shells Found: Fighting Conchs Lettered Olives Calico Scallops Tulips Coquinas Augers Moon Snails Occasional Lightning Whelks Best Time to Go: Low tide Early morning Following winter cold fronts After several days of west or northwest winds Pro Tip: Walk north or south away from the main beach access. Most visitors stay close to the parking lot boardwalk access, but shelling often improves as you put distance between yourself and the crowds. Bowman's Beach (Sanibel Island) Address: 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 Bowman's Beach is often considered one of the best shelling beaches in Southwest Florida. Its long, natural shoreline and lack of nearby development allow shells to accumulate along productive shell lines. Common Shells Found: Lightning Whelks Fighting Conchs True Tulips Lettered Olives Calico Scallops Coquinas Occasional Junonia Best Time to Go: Low tide Early morning After strong west winds or cold fronts Blind Pass Beach (Sanibel Island) Address: 6491 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 The currents flowing between Sanibel and Captiva create one of the most dynamic shelling areas in Florida. Shell deposits can change dramatically from day to day. Common Shells Found: Alphabet Cones Lightning Whelks Fighting Conchs Tulips Moon Snails Junonias (occasionally) Best Time to Go: Falling tide After storms Winter cold fronts Lighthouse Beach (Sanibel Island) Address: 110 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957 This is one of Sanibel's easiest shelling beaches to access and a great place for families. It often produces large quantities of smaller shells. Common Shells Found: Coquinas Augers Scallops Olives Small Fighting Conchs Pen Shells Best Time to Go: Sunrise Low tide Weekdays Tigertail Beach (Marco Island) Address: 430 Hernando Drive, Marco Island, FL 34145 Tigertail Beach is one of the most productive shelling beaches in Collier County. The outer beach beyond the lagoon frequently collects shell deposits that many visitors never reach. Common Shells Found: Calico Scallops Lightning Whelks Fighting Conchs Lettered Olives Sand Dollars Moon Snails Best Time to Go: Low tide Winter and spring After strong west winds Pro Tip: The outer Gulf beach often out-produces the main beach near the parking area. South Beach (Marco Island) Address: 930 Swallow Avenue, Marco Island, FL 34145 South Beach is Marco Island's most popular beach and can occasionally surprise shellers after storms and winter cold fronts. While it generally doesn't produce as heavily as Tigertail, it's easy to access and often has good shell lines after rough weather. Common Shells Found: Fighting Conchs Calico Scallops Olives Coquinas Augers Moon Snails Best Time to Go: Early morning Low tide The day after a storm or cold front Pro Tip: Walk toward the southern end of the beach where shell concentrations are often better. If able, walk around all the rock jetties! Barefoot Beach Preserve (Bonita Springs) Address: 503 Barefoot Beach Boulevard, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Barefoot Beach remains one of the most natural beaches in Southwest Florida and can produce excellent shelling when conditions align. Common Shells Found: Fighting Conchs Tulips Olives Scallops Coquinas Augers Best Time to Go: Winter months Low tide After strong Gulf winds Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park (Naples) Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples, FL 34108 The beach within Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offers miles of shoreline and frequent shell deposits, especially near the northern end. The area surrounding Wiggins Pass is one of my favorite places to recommend to shellers. Passes act like natural funnels that can concentrate shells carried by tides and currents. Common Shells Found: Fighting Conchs Tulips Olives Lightning Whelks Scallops Best Time to Go: Early morning Falling tide During winter shelling season Pro Tip: Focus your search near the pass itself, where currents often deposit fresh shell material. Lowdermilk Park (Naples) Address: 1301 Gulf Shore Boulevard North, Naples, FL 34102 Lowdermilk isn't usually considered a shelling destination, but after storms it can produce surprisingly good finds. It's also one of Naples' most convenient beach accesses. Common Shells Found: Coquinas Scallops Olives Augers Small Conchs Best Time to Go: After storms Early morning Low tide All said, remember shelling changes every single day. The "best" beach today may not be the best beach tomorrow. The real secret is understanding tides, winds, and currents - and being willing to get out there when conditions are right. And when you're ready to experience shelling beyond the beaches you can drive to, that's when the remote islands of the Ten Thousand Islands and Keewaydin Island really begin to shine.

One of the most common questions I get from visitors is: "How do I get to the Ten Thousand Islands?" The short answer? You need a boat. The Ten Thousand Islands is one of the most remote and wild coastal areas in Florida. Stretching from Naples south toward Everglades City, this maze of mangrove islands, hidden beaches, and shell-covered shorelines has very few public access points. That's exactly what makes it so special. What Are the Ten Thousand Islands? Despite the name, there aren't actually 10,000 islands. The area consists of hundreds of mangrove islands, shoals, sandbars, and remote beaches that form part of one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in North America. Many of the best shelling beaches are located on islands that can only be reached by water. There are no bridges, no roads, and no parking lots waiting for you when you arrive. Instead, you'll find pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and some of the best shelling opportunities in Southwest Florida. Can I Drive There? Not really. While you can drive to communities such as Goodland, Marco Island, Chokoloskee, or Everglades City, you cannot simply drive onto the islands themselves. The islands are separated from the mainland by bays, channels, and mangrove estuaries. If your goal is to explore the remote shelling beaches that make the Ten Thousand Islands famous, you'll need some type of watercraft. Ways to Access the Ten Thousand Islands 1. Take a Guided Shelling Tour For most visitors, this is by far the easiest option. A guided shelling tour allows you to access remote islands without worrying about navigation, tides, weather conditions, or finding the best shelling spots. As a guide, I spend hundreds of hours each year exploring these islands and keeping track of which beaches are producing shells. Conditions change constantly, and what was productive last month may not be productive today. On a guided tour, I help guests identify shells, locate productive shell lines, and maximize their time on the beach. 2. Bring Your Own Boat Experienced boaters can access many areas of the Ten Thousand Islands on their own. However, navigation can be challenging. The area is filled with shallow flats, oyster bars, sandbars, and winding channels. Tides can dramatically affect water depth, and many areas become inaccessible at low tide. If you're unfamiliar with the region, a GPS chartplotter and local knowledge are highly recommended. 3. Kayak the Islands Some portions of the Ten Thousand Islands can be explored by kayak. This can be a fantastic way to experience the mangrove tunnels, wildlife, and backcountry scenery. However, reaching many of the most productive shelling beaches may require long paddles and careful attention to tides, wind, and weather conditions. Where Do SWFL Shell Guide Tours Launch? Most of my Ten Thousand Islands shelling tours depart from Goodland, a small fishing village located just east of Marco Island. From there, we travel by boat into the backcountry to reach remote shelling beaches that are inaccessible by car. Because the islands we visit are only reachable by water, guests get to experience a side of Southwest Florida that most visitors never see. What Will I See in the Ten Thousand Islands? Every trip is different, but common sightings include: Dolphins Ospreys Crabs Pelicans Roseate spoonbills Mangrove forests Remote white-sand beaches Hundreds of seashell species Sometimes Manatees Sometimes Bald Eagles And of course, plenty of opportunities to search for prized shells such as Junonias, alphabet cones, lightning whelks, horse conchs, tulips, and murexes. Is It Worth Visiting? Absolutely. The Ten Thousand Islands offers one of the most unique coastal environments in Florida. Unlike crowded public beaches, you'll often find yourself exploring remote shorelines with very few people around. Whether you're an avid shell collector, wildlife photographer, kayaker, or simply someone who loves nature, the Ten Thousand Islands provides an unforgettable Southwest Florida experience. If you've ever dreamed of discovering a secluded shell-covered beach that feels untouched by time, this is the place. And the best way to get there? Hop aboard a boat and let someone else do the navigating while you focus on the shellventure! Book your SWFL Shelling tour Now!

All Keewaydin shelling tours depart from Bayview Park, located near downtown Naples: 1575 Danford Street, Naples, FL 34112 🚨 Important: Parking Is Extremely Limited Bayview Park has very few parking spaces available for passenger vehicles, so we strongly recommend: Carpooling Taking an Uber/Lyft or taxi Having someone drop you off at the park Recommended Parking + Uber Options If you'd rather not worry about finding parking at Bayview Park, consider parking at one of these nearby locations and taking a short Uber ride to the launch site: Publix at Shops at Hammock Cove 4370 Thomasson Dr, Naples, FL 34112 Approximately 3.0 miles from Bayview Park ✅ Recommended option McDonald's at Gulf Gate Plaza 2886 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34112 Approximately 2.8 miles from Bayview Park ⚠️ Less desirable area Parking at Bayview Park Feeling lucky? There are only 8 passenger vehicle parking spaces inside the park. If you choose to park at Bayview Park: Park only in designated passenger vehicle spaces. Do NOT park in trailer parking spaces. Parking costs $10 per vehicle and is paid using your phone (no app required). Simply scan the QR code or text the number posted on the parking signs. Your parking payment covers the entire duration of your tour. Be sure to have your license plate number available when paying. Will Parking Be Available? As a general rule: ☁️ Cloudy or rainy day: Parking is usually easy to find. ☀️ Beautiful sunny day: Parking is often full. Plan on using Uber or another transportation option. Avoid Costly Parking Tickets If the Bayview Park lot is full, do not park along Danford Street or Hamilton Avenue. Those spaces are reserved for boat trailers, and improperly parked vehicles are subject to a $75 parking citation. Mobile Pay-to-Park signs to look for 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

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 .

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).

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.

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!   🐚🌴

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 !