Private Barrier Island Shelling Tour from Marco Island — Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Adventure
Set out from Goodland for a private 2.5-hour shelling cruise through the Ten Thousand Islands. Expert captains and a Florida Master Naturalist guide search remote shoals for alphabet cones, lightning whelks and the elusive Junonia while you explore mangrove-lined beaches and tidal flats.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear closed water shoes
Expect walking on uneven, shell-strewn beaches and ankle-to-knee wading—closed water shoes protect feet from sharp shells and mangrove roots.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
Bring broad-spectrum sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and UPF clothing—the open gulf offers little shade during midday departures.
Bring a small dry bag
Carry your phone, keys and collected shells in a waterproof bag—guides provide mesh shelling bags but a dry bag keeps valuables safe.
Respect live animals and habitats
Do not remove live shells, disturb nests, or trample mangroves—guides will help identify protected species.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kice Island’s gulf-facing shoals—prime for rare shells when conditions are right
- •The tiny fishing village of Goodland and its local docks—great for post-tour seafood and low-key coastal character
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Roseate spoonbills and other shorebirds
Conservation Note
Much of the area is managed for conservation (including Rookery Bay NERR), so guides emphasize taking only empty shells, avoiding live animals, and minimizing disturbance to mangrove habitats.
The Ten Thousand Islands were shaped as sea levels rose after the last ice age; indigenous Calusa people used these channels for fishing and trade for centuries before European contact.
Photographer's Notes
- • Gulf-facing shore of Kice Island for wide shell-scattered beaches
- • Bow of the boat with Cape Romano Dome House in the background
- • Tidal flats near Tigertail Beach for close-up shell and bird shots
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet on shell-covered beaches and during shallow water wading.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Prevents sunburn during exposed stretches on the Gulf.
Polarized sunglasses and wide-brim hatEssential
Reduces glare for spotting shells and protects eyes from reflected sunlight.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps electronics and personal items dry while launching, landing and moving around the boat.
Common Questions
How likely am I to find a Junonia?
Junonias are rare and sightings are not guaranteed; guides increase your odds by visiting productive shoals where currents concentrate exotic shells.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes—it's family-friendly. Children 6 and under must wear life vests (provided), and adults should supervise beach landings and shallow wading.
Can I collect live shells or protected species?
No—collect only empty, uninhabited shells; removal of live mollusks, sea stars, and protected wildlife is prohibited to protect ecosystems.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear water shoes, quick-dry clothing, sun protection, and bring a refillable water bottle; guides supply mesh shelling bags and a cooler with ice.
Where do you depart from and is parking available?
Departures begin at a private dock at 220 Goodland Drive in Goodland; free parking is available across from Stan's Idle Hour in the gravel lot behind the white fence.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are canceled in unsafe conditions; the operator offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or if the captain calls it for safety.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Requires moderate fitness: several short beach walks, wading through shallow water, and stepping on uneven surfaces.
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