Exploring Marco Island: Dolphin, Birding, and Shelling Adventure in the 10,000 Islands

Cruise through the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge on a two-hour tour from Marco Island that brings you face-to-face with dolphins, migratory birds, and uninhabited barrier islands. Learn from a Florida Master Naturalist while collecting shells and discovering the region’s diverse coastal ecosystem.

Marco Island, Florida•

2 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The salty breeze presses against your face as the boat cuts through the shimmering waters of Florida’s 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge. For two hours, you’re drawn deep into a landscape where water is both path and playground—daring dolphins leap alongside the hull, while great blue herons stand statuesque in the shallows. This is a place where nature’s cast of characters—manatees who linger near the surface, osprey hovering with surgical precision, pelicans ready to dive—all converge in a delicate dance.

Before You Go

Bring Sun and Water Protection

Florida’s sun can be intense even in the morning; pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated and protected during the tour.

Wear Footwear That Can Get Wet

Expect to step onto wet sands and possibly shallow water on the shelling portion; water shoes or sandals with secure straps are ideal.

Book Morning Tours in Summer

From June to October, morning departures help you avoid afternoon storms and heat, improving comfort and wildlife activity.

Respect the Wildlife and Habitat

Collect shells but avoid live animals or disrupting the natural environment to support conservation efforts in the 10,000 Islands.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•An uninhabited barrier island that offers pristine shelling away from crowds
•Quiet mangrove channels where birds cluster during low tide

Wildlife

•Bottlenose dolphins
•Roseate spoonbills

Conservation Note

This refuge is protected to preserve nesting grounds for shorebirds and critical habitats for marine wildlife, with tours designed to minimize human impact.

The 10,000 Islands were historically important as a fishing and transportation area for indigenous Calusa people and later shaped by settlers adapting to the shifting coastline.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning light for softer shadows and active wildlife, Golden hour for warm, dramatic colors

Key viewpoints:

• From the boat deck for dolphin and bird shots
• On the uninhabited island looking back toward the wetlands
• Along shallow channels framed by mangroves

Subjects to capture:Dolphins in motion, Shorebirds perched or in flight, Patterns of shells and texture on the beach

What to Bring

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Sun HatEssential

Protects your face and neck from the strong Florida sun during the boat and island portions.

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Water ShoesEssential

Provides traction and protects feet when walking on wet sand and shallow waters.

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Reusable Water BottleEssential

Keeps you hydrated and helps reduce single-use plastic on the boat.

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Lightweight Rain Jacket

Useful in case of sudden afternoon showers common during Florida’s summer months.

Common Questions

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Can I keep the shells I find?

You may collect shells, but living animals must not be taken to protect the local ecosystem.

What should I wear for the tour?

Light, breathable clothes with sun protection and footwear suitable for wet conditions are recommended.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The tour primarily takes place on a boat and includes walking on soft sand which may be challenging for wheelchair users; it’s best to contact the operator for accommodations.