10,000 Islands Dolphin, Birding & Shelling Tour — 2 Hours from Naples, FL
Slip past the marina and into the 10,000 Islands on a guided two-hour run that chases dolphins, catalogs shorebirds, and pauses at a remote barrier beach for shelling. Perfect for photographers and families, the tour mixes natural history with easy coastal adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early in summer
Morning departures reduce heat exposure and avoid the typical afternoon thunderstorms from June–October.
Bring binoculars
A compact pair reveals distant ospreys, spoonbills and the fine detail of shorebirds without crowding the rails.
Wear water-friendly shoes
Shoes that drain or quick-dry let you explore the wet sand of barrier islands comfortably.
Respect shell rules
Only take empty, unbroken shells; leaving live shells and sand dollars helps preserve local ecosystems.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Keewaydin Island flats for rare shell finds at low tide
- •Cape Romano coastline — distinctive offshore dome structures and good birding from the boat
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatees
Conservation Note
The 10,000 Islands are ecologically fragile; operators emphasize no-approach rules for nesting birds and recommend taking only empty shells to reduce impact.
The Calusa people inhabited and navigated these estuaries for centuries; European settlers later used the islands for fishing and shelling industries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat with barrier island backdrop
- • Shoreline on the uninhabited barrier island
- • Mid-channel with mangrove reflections
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Helps identify distant birds and spot dolphin activity before the rest of the group.
Water-resistant shoesEssential
Protect feet on wet sand and from boat spray during beach stops.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Sun is intense on open water; choose reef-safe formulas to protect marine life.
Light waterproof jacket
Helpful for sudden spray or brief drizzle, especially in summer afternoons.
Common Questions
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes—this tour is family-friendly; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and space is limited so book accordingly.
Where is the meeting point?
Meet under the covered picnic pavilion beside the marina store; arrive 20–25 minutes early to park and use facilities.
Can we swim at the barrier island stop?
Swims are not a primary focus; you may wade onshore but strong currents and shallow flats makeSwimming limits variable—follow crew guidance.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include dolphins, manatees, herons, egrets, pelicans, ospreys and seasonal shorebirds; sightings are never guaranteed.
Is there restroom access?
Restrooms are available at the marina before departure; boats typically do not have facilities for short tours.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for storms or unsafe sea conditions; the operator offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Naples, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to board and stand for short periods.
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