10,000 Islands Shelling and Dolphin Eco Tour — Half-Day from Goodland
Spend three hours weaving through mangrove channels from Goodland to Kice Island, hunting shells on exposed sandbars and watching dolphins work the shallows. A small-boat, eco-focused outing ideal for photographers and families.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time it with the tide
Book morning departures at low tide for the best exposed sandbars and shell beds.
Wear reef shoes
Soft sand hides broken shells and shell ridges—closed-toe water shoes protect feet and make walking easier.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen
Florida sun is intense on the flats; chemical-free sunscreen protects skin and local marine life.
Bring a dry bag and extra phone battery
Waves, spray, and pockets of shallow water mean electronics need protection and extra power.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sandbars at Dickmans that appear at low tide and offer quiet shelling away from larger crowds
- •The partially submerged Cape Romano dome homes as a photogenic landmark best viewed from the water at mid-distance
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Roseate spoonbill
Conservation Note
Tours emphasize taking only empty shells, avoiding seagrass damage, and using reef-safe products to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
This coastline was part of the Calusa domain; shell middens and fishing traditions ran generations deep, influencing shoreline use today.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat for dolphins and open-water panoramas
- • Kice Island shoreline for macro shell shots
- • Distance view of Cape Romano dome homes for context and scale
What to Bring
Reef/water shoesEssential
Protects feet on sharp shells and provides traction on wet sand.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, camera, and keys safe from spray and splashes.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hatEssential
Prevents sunburn and reduces harm to seagrass and marine life.
Light layer or windbreaker
Morning chop and winter breezes can be cool on the water, especially in the early season.
Common Questions
How old do children need to be to join?
Children are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and operators typically advise family-friendly boats—verify when booking.
Will we definitely see dolphins?
Dolphins are frequently sighted in the Ten Thousand Islands but wildlife is never guaranteed; guides choose routes with high sighting probabilities.
Can I keep any shells I find?
You may collect empty, uninhabited shells; avoid taking live shells or protected species and follow guide instructions to protect nesting areas.
Is motion sickness a problem?
The waters are often calm, but if you're prone to seasickness take preventative medication and choose morning trips when seas are usually smoother.
Where exactly do tours depart from and is parking available?
Tours meet at Walker’s Coon Key Marina, 604 E Palm Ave, Goodland; the marina provides free parking—arrive 20–30 minutes early to check in.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Full refund is typically available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may cancel for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity; must be able to step on and off a small boat and walk short distances on sand and shell beds.
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