Shell the Ten Thousand Islands: Barrier Island Shelling Tour from Marco Island

Goodland•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Light to moderate fitness recommended—standing, short beach walks, and stepping in and out of boats.

Overview

Step off the dock in Goodland and into the Ten Thousand Islands—a short boat ride to remote sandbars and mangrove-backed beaches where rare shells like Junonia and alphabet cones turn up after the right tide. This 2.5-hour guided trip blends easy walking with expert local knowledge, ideal for families and collectors who want to explore beyond the tourist beaches.

Shell the Ten Thousand Islands: Barrier Island Shelling Tour from Marco Island

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

Morning light slices across the Gulf as the boat slips away from the little gravel lot on Goodland Drive.

Adventure Photos

Shell the Ten Thousand Islands: Barrier Island Shelling Tour from Marco Island photo 1

Adventure Tips

Wear water-friendly footwear

Expect walking on wet sand, shallow water, and exposed mangrove roots—closed-toe water shoes give protection and traction.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a sun hat

The boat gives little shade; apply sunscreen before boarding and reapply after swimming or wading.

Leave live shells and wildlife alone

Collect only empty, intact shells; returning live animals protects the ecosystem and complies with local rules.

Plan for morning departures

Early trips usually encounter calmer seas and better shelling conditions before afternoon winds build.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
West Indian manatee

History

The Ten Thousand Islands were historically used by the Calusa and later by fishing communities; shells and middens tell a long human story of coastal living.

Conservation

The area overlaps Rookery Bay Reserve—collect responsibly, avoid disturbing mangroves and shorebird nesting areas, and follow guide instructions to protect fragile habitats.