by Kurt Zuelsdorf 

“We launch into the shallow grass filled flats teaming with mullet and other small, flippin’ fish.  Snook dart from the shadows. Cowfish lazily swim on grassflats covered with Egrets. A true island paradise!”

Shell Island is about 2.5 miles long and has about 180 acres of dry land. However the entire preserve covers over 1700 acres, including Shell Key, some smaller islands, and many acres of shallow water grass flats and mangroves. Significant sections of the island are off-limits to humans because they are a wildlife preserve.

Shell Key is a favorite trip for my  kayakers, who also happen to be snorkelers, shellers, fishermen, campers, and astronomers, who take advantage of the dark nights on the island without lights.

Reserve a short 20 minute paddle to shell key to enjoy a few hours relaxing away from the crowds.