Kayak to Shell Island Preserve
Kayak to Shell Key the last deserted island in Florida.
Once you glide over the flats land on the white beaches of this unspoiled paradise, you’ll see the coastline as it must have looked to early explorers: mounds of shells trapped underneath tree roots, nesting birds, and undisturbed coastline brimming with shells, sand dollars, and young sea creatures.
Kayak Cathy has spent years combing the sands of Shell Key and will guide you through the hidden entrance into mangrove islands and show you where to snorkel for dollars and the best shells! Bring your snorkel and mask, pack a lunch and spend a day in Florida paradise!
TUESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY 8AM
RESERVE TODAY for this great kayak paddle trip!
SINGLE KAYAK – $55
DOUBLE KAYAK -$90
More About Shell Island
Shell Key Preserve – Overview Shell Key Preserve was established in 2000 through a lease agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). The 2000 Shell Key Preserve Management Plan was adopted in October 2000 by the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and the FDEP. The lease agreement requires that the property be managed “only for the conservation and protection of natural and historical resources and for resource-based public outdoor activities and education which are compatible with the conservation and protection of these public lands.” This 1,800-acre Preserve includes one of the County’s largest undeveloped barrier islands (Shell Key) as well as numerous mangrove islands and expansive seagrass beds. Shell Key has been designated as one of the State’s most important areas for shorebird nesting and wintering. It also is an important area for recreation. A balance for both uses was established by restricting public use to the northern and southern ends of the island. A central core area for conservation is off-limits to the public. Boating, camping, and beach-going activities are permitted in public use areas of the Preserve. Shell Key offers very clear water and is great for snorkeling and shelling. Check out our photos pages for pictures of Egmont Key, the dolphin show on the way out to Egmont Key, the Spanish American war forts and the lighthouse.
July 18th, 2010 at 8:36 am
Hey Kurt, I am off for the next 3 days, starting tomorrow. Wow! You got anything planned to Shell Key? or any other place which I might be able to tag along with? If not, what is the best way for me to go to Shell Key without any kayak? Can’t believe I have no idea….:(
July 18th, 2010 at 8:47 am
Well it is an actual island Margo, so I suppose you could swim it? There is a shuttle from Pass a grille that’s reasonable.
July 18th, 2010 at 9:10 am
No, won’t be swimming it. Will try the Pass a Grille option probably. Haven’t seen ya’ for a while. Hope your biz is doing better’n mine…Bayou looked pretty nice this AM….great sweet smells from some invisible flowers, and lush green grasses…Diving osprey…couple of lil’ marsh rabbits. Peaceful…and burgeoning HOT!
July 21st, 2010 at 2:51 pm
if i bring my own kayak can i still go on the tour for a discounted rate?
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:54 am
Megan, 1/2 price if you bring your own eqpt. Don’t forget to call and reserve! 418-9728
Kurt z