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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The motor ticks down and the flats open like a map of light: shallow bays, mangrove fingers, and glittering sandbars that seem to float just beneath the surface. On a half-day out of Walker’s Coon Key Marina, the boat slips past bobbing oyster clusters and low mangrove ribs toward Kice Island and the sand-swept edges of Cape Romano, where dolphins thread the channels and beaches offer shells both common and rare.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity; must be able to step on and off a small boat and walk short distances on sand and shell beds.
Wildlife
History
This coastline was part of the Calusa domain; shell middens and fishing traditions ran generations deep, influencing shoreline use today.
Conservation
Tours emphasize taking only empty shells, avoiding seagrass damage, and using reef-safe products to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Half Day Shelling Dolphin Eco Tour in 10 000 Island and Marco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
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.
Reef/water shoes
Protects feet on sharp shells and provides traction on wet sand.
summer
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, camera, and keys safe from spray and splashes.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Prevents sunburn and reduces harm to seagrass and marine life.
summer
Light layer or windbreaker
Morning chop and winter breezes can be cool on the water, especially in the early season.
winter