Adventure Details

Explore the beauty of Shell Key Preserve with an 8-hour boat adventure off Florida’s Gulf Coast. This 1,828-acre archipelago is a hidden gem frequented by birds and wildlife, making it a unique and serene destination. Visitors must take a boat to Shell Key, the largest piece of dry land in the preserve, where they can explore the southern end of the island while the rest remains reserved for wildlife conservation. Shell Key Preserve is a vital area for shorebird nesting and overwintering, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to see a variety of bird species year-round, including wading birds like the reddish egret, great blue heron, and snowy egret, as well as gulls, terns, black skimmers, and Wilson’s plovers. The preserve also features mangrove islands and seagrass beds that serve as crucial nurseries for sea life species, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. With 195 acres of undeveloped barrier island and additional mangrove islands and seagrass beds, Shell Key Preserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife. From May to September, visitors may even witness sea turtles nesting and hatching in the preserve, adding to the memorable experience of exploring this pristine coastal habitat. - Discover the hidden gem of Shell Key Preserve on an 8-hour boat adventure - Experience birdwatching opportunities with a variety of bird species year-round - Explore the diverse ecosystem of mangrove islands, seagrass beds, and sea turtle nesting grounds in the preserve TLDR: - 8-hour boat adventure to Shell Key Preserve for birdwatching and wildlife exploration - Home to diverse bird species, mangrove islands, and sea turtle nesting grounds - Experience the natural beauty and serenity of this hidden gem off Florida’s Gulf Coast