Islands Between Tides: Exploring the Ten Thousand Islands by Boat, Kayak and Shell
A slow, salt-scented route through mangrove tunnels, barrier islands and wildlife-rich backwaters off Marco Island.
When the boat slips away from the Goodland dock and the mainland becomes a distant ribbon of rooftops, the world tightens to a narrower, salt-scented circumference. Mangrove roots braid into dark arches, gulls wheel like punctuation marks, and a channel opens up that will push and pull you through a landscape that moves more by tide than by human design. This is the Ten Thousand Islands—an archipelago of mangrove islets, barrier sands, and quiet creeks threaded into the southern edge of Everglades National Park. It is a place that insists you travel slowly.
Trail Wisdom
Book morning departures in summer
June–October brings heat and afternoon storms—early tours are cooler and have better wildlife activity.
Bring a dry bag and zip-locks
Protect phones, keys and camera gear from spray; small waterproof cases also make comfortable beach companions.
Wear polarized sunglasses
Polarized lenses cut surface glare so you can spot dolphins, submerged sandbars and shell concentrations.
Respect wildlife viewing distances
Do not approach or feed manatees, dolphins, or shorebirds—good tours will maintain safe, legal distances.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Smallwood Store & Museum in Chokoloskee for maritime history and local lore
- •Undisturbed remote barrier islands reachable on private shelling tours—best for quiet beachcombing
Wildlife
West Indian manatee, bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
Water quality and freshwater flow from the Everglades determine the health of mangroves and seagrass—support operators that donate to restoration and practice leave-no-trace on beaches.
The Ten Thousand Islands were long occupied by the Calusa people, maritime hunters who shaped shellfish harvesting and navigation practices still evident in shell middens and place names.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: shelling, bird migration, calmer seas for kayaking
Challenges: variable tides, increasing humidity
Spring is excellent for shelling and birdwatching as migratory species pass through; tides and winds can still be changeable so pick morning windows.
summer
Best for: early morning wildlife sightings, long daylight, warm water snorkeling
Challenges: heat, afternoon thunderstorms, insects
Tours are best scheduled in the morning to avoid heat and storms; expect high humidity and more mosquitoes in mangrove edges.
fall
Best for: fewer crowds, excellent fishing, stable weather after hurricane season
Challenges: residual warm water, changing migration patterns
Fall offers solid fishing and quieter islands; monitor weather forecasts during hurricane season tail periods.
winter
Best for: dry weather, clear skies, peak birding
Challenges: cooler mornings, occasional north winds
Winter is the most comfortable season for touring with lower humidity, excellent wildlife viewing and calm seas—ideal for longer excursions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare to help spot wildlife, submerged sandbars and shells.
Dry bag (10–20L)Essential
Keeps electronics and layers dry on boat rides and during beach stops.
Reef-safe sunscreen and sunshirtEssential
Protects skin and reduces sunscreen chemicals that harm marine habitats.
Light hiking sandals or water shoesEssential
Stable, quick-drying footwear is best for shallow beach walking and kayak launches.
Common Questions
Do I need previous kayaking experience?
No; many combined tours provide stable kayaks and a guide who will give basic paddling instruction—select routes suited to beginners.
When is the best time for shelling?
Mornings after a strong tide or following a storm often wash up the best shells; sunrise shelling tours aim to put you on islands before crowds arrive.
Are tours family-friendly?
Yes—many boat and shelling tours welcome children; small-group kayaks may have age or weight restrictions so check with operators.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include dolphins, manatees, shorebirds (egrets, herons, roseate spoonbills), sea turtles and occasionally alligators in brackish creeks.
How long are typical tours?
Most sightseeing and dolphin tours run 2–2.5 hours; shelling and combined excursions can last 3–4 hours—private charters vary by itinerary.
Are pets allowed on tours?
Policies vary by operator—some private charters allow well-behaved pets with advance notice; check with the company before you book.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses (spot wildlife and reduce glare); dry bag (protect gear); reef-safe sunscreen and hat (sun protection and environmental care); water shoes (shore walks and kayak launches).
Did You Know
The Ten Thousand Islands adjoin Everglades National Park and the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge—many islands are only accessible by boat and are prime nesting and foraging habitat for migratory birds.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning tours in summer; pack water and snacks for longer excursions; bring cash for island vendors like Smallwood Store; confirm pickup dock (Goodland/Marco) before arrival.
Local Flavor
Seafood and small-town maritime culture dominate—try a locally caught snapper or stone crab (seasonal), visit the Marco Island Farmers Market for fresh produce, and stop in Chokoloskee’s Smallwood Store for a history fix.
Logistics Snapshot
Departure point: Goodland/Marco Island docks; durations: 2–3 hours typical; book early for morning slots in summer; wear sun protection and bring a dry bag; many tours are family-friendly.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that practice responsible wildlife viewing, avoid feeding wildlife, use reef-safe sunscreens and contribute to Everglades restoration or education programs.