easy
2–6 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly involves light walking on sand and shallow wading.
Discover the rich shelling grounds of Marco Island with Treasure Seekers Shell Tours. From private boat charters to guided excursions, find out why their trips are a top local outdoor adventure.
Located along Florida’s southwestern Gulf Coast, Marco Island offers an unparalleled setting for shelling enthusiasts courtesy of Treasure Seekers Shell Tours. This locally owned business specializes in immersive shelling expeditions and private boat charters designed to connect visitors with the natural treasures of the Ten Thousand Islands region. Known for abundant and diverse shell deposits, the area rewards seekers with everything from common conchs to rare finds like the coveted Junonia shell.
Treasure Seekers delivers multiple trip options—from intimate two-hour private eco and shelling boat tours to longer six-hour excursions that prioritize deep-dive shell hunting. Whether joining a guided group outing or opting for self-guided tours, guests benefit from knowledgeable guides who share expert tips, such as where to look and how to differentiate shells. These guides also elevate the experience by pointing out local wildlife including playful dolphins and native bird species.
The tours unfold across pristine beaches and shallow waters where the sands reveal a dynamic collection of seashells shaped by the region’s unique marine environment. Captains skillfully navigate around protected islands and ecologically rich mangroves to access prime shelling spots while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
Guests consistently praise the company’s warm hospitality and attention to detail — from providing hydration to encouraging visitors with helpful scoop tools and shell sorting advice. The boat rides themselves offer stunning vantage points of sunsets, wildlife, and unspoiled coastal scenery.
Treasure Seekers Shell Tours stands out as a must-do outdoor activity for families, couples, and solo travelers interested in a relaxed yet rewarding marine adventure. Whether you're a shell collector aiming for a haul or simply seeking a unique way to experience the ecosystems surrounding Marco Island, this operation offers a thoughtfully curated gateway to Florida’s coastal riches.
A shell scoop makes collecting easier and more efficient, especially for smaller or partially buried shells.
The Florida sun can be intense; bring water or use the complimentary beverages on the boats to stay hydrated.
Protect your feet from rocky or shell-strewn beaches and shallow water while staying comfortable on boat and shore.
Bird activity and tide conditions in the morning often increase shell movement, improving your chances of finding rarer shells.
Marco Island sits near the historic Calusa Indian territory; the region’s shell middens trace back thousands of years.
Treasure Seekers emphasizes low-impact tours that protect fragile ecosystems and support local conservation efforts.
Protect your face and neck from strong Florida sun during midday tours.
summer specific
Comfortably navigate beaches and shallow waters while keeping feet protected.
summer specific
Staying hydrated is crucial, and many tours provide ice-cold water refills throughout the trip.
Keep cool and dry quickly after getting wet on the boat or at the shore.
summer specific