Discover Florida’s Shell Key Preserve by clear kayak with expert guides from Get Up and Go Kayaking. Glide over crystal waters to explore wildlife, mangroves, and beaches in this one-of-a-kind paddling adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with basic paddling abilities; light to moderate physical activity required.
Wildlife
History
Shell Key Preserve is a protected barrier island formed over centuries by natural sediment deposits and plays an important role in coastal ecology.
Conservation
The preserve is managed to protect nesting bird habitats and marine ecosystems, encouraging sustainable tourism and minimizing human impact.
Get Up and Go Kayaking - Tampa Bay
Discover Florida’s Shell Key Preserve by clear kayak with expert guides from Get Up and Go Kayaking. Glide over crystal waters to explore wildlife, mangroves, and beaches in this one-of-a-kind paddling adventure.
Get Up and Go Kayaking - Tampa Bay provides guided clear kayak tours based in Tierra Verde, Florida. The outfitter offers three primary experiences: Shell Key Preserve Clear Kayak Evening Tours, Shell Key Preserve Private Clear Kayak Tour, and Shell Key Preserve Clear Kayak Tour. Trips depart from Tierra Verde and travel to Shell Key Preserve, focusing on coastal ecosystems, seagrass habitats, and shoreline wildlife viewing.
Guides provide a safety briefing, paddling instruction, and equipment orientation before launch. Tours use transparent kayaks that allow unobstructed views of marine life, seagrass beds, and shallow water channels beneath the hull. Private tours are available for groups seeking a customized itinerary or a more intimate experience.
Evening tours visit Shell Key Preserve at sunset, emphasizing low-light wildlife activity and coastal color. The operator follows local regulations for protected areas and designs routes that minimize environmental impact and respect nesting and feeding zones. Reservations are recommended due to limited kayak availability and preserve access restrictions.
Trip duration and exact meeting points are provided at booking and can vary by tide and season. Get Up and Go Kayaking - Tampa Bay serves visitors from Tierra Verde and the greater Tampa Bay area, including St. Pete Beach and St. Petersburg. The outfitter emphasizes clear communication, professional safety gear, and experienced local knowledge of tides, channels, and safe launch points. These small-group clear kayak experiences are suitable for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking guided exploration of Shell Key Preserve. Booking information and packing lists are available.
Location
Tierra Verde, FL
Base of operations and meeting point
Tours Offered
3 Tours
Clear kayak experiences available
Private Options
Private Tours
Private tour available on request
Evening Tours
Evening Option
Shell Key evening clear kayak tour
Secure a spot on Shell Key Preserve evening, private, or standard clear kayak tours departing Tierra Verde — limited availability.
Arrive Early to Secure Parking
Parking at Tierra Verde can fill quickly, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early to ensure a convenient spot.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect both your skin and the marine environment by using environmentally safe sunscreen during the tour.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
A waterproof or action camera will let you capture underwater sights and wildlife without damaging your gear.
Stay Hydrated Before and After
Florida's sun and saltwater can dehydrate you quickly, so drink plenty of water before and after your paddle.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep your belongings dry and secure while out on the water.
Wide-Brim Hat
Protects your face and neck from strong Florida sun during warmer months.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Helps stay comfortable and dry during paddling and if splashed.
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Useful for occasional rain showers common in spring.
spring