Sunrise Shelling Tour in the Ten Thousand Islands — Early-Morning Boat Trip to Kice Island & Shell Island
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on soft sand and getting on/off a skiff.
Overview
Beat the crowds and hunt for Junonias and lightning whelks on a pre-dawn boat run through the Ten Thousand Islands. This four-hour sunrise shelling tour from Goodland visits Kice Island and Shell Island for prime, uncrowded beachcombing.
Sunrise Shelling Tour in the Ten Thousand Islands — Early-Morning Boat Trip to Kice Island & Shell Island
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The motor hums low as the sky softens from navy to pale orange, and the captain eases the small charter away from the Goodland docks. Salt and diesel braid in the air; mangroves pass like dark punctuation marks. By the time you round the point into Caxambas Pass, the water is a polished mirror that dares you to move quietly. This is the hour the tides hand you a coast uncluttered by footsteps — a private window onto the Ten Thousand Islands and the rare shells that wash ashore here.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Park
Arrive 20–30 minutes before the 6:45 a.m. departure to secure free parking across from Stan's Idle Hour and load gear calmly.
Wear Sun Protection
Even at sunrise UV can be strong on open water — hat, high-SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses are essential.
Bring a Small Mesh Bag or Bucket
Use mesh or perforated containers to rinse and sort shells quickly so you don’t track sand back onto the boat.
Respect Nesting Closures
Some islands close March–August for bird nesting — trust the captain and avoid landing on restricted bars.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Atlantic bottlenose dolphin
- shorebirds such as black skimmers and least terns
History
The Ten Thousand Islands area was home to the Calusa people for centuries; shells were historically used for tools and trade and remain central to local culture.
Conservation
Operators observe seasonal island closures for nesting and encourage guests to leave live organisms and occupied shells in place to protect shorebird and marine life.
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Adventure Hotspots in Marco Island
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reusable Water Bottle (1–2L)
Staying hydrated in the morning heat is critical — refillable bottles avoid plastic waste.
summer specific
Sturdy Water Shoes
Protect feet from hot sand and sharp shell edges during beach landings.
summer specific
Wide-Brim Hat & Sunglasses
Blocks glare for early-morning sun and helps with spotting shell details.
spring specific
Dry Bag (Small)
Keep phone, camera and a light jacket dry when moving between boat and shore.