St Petersburg, Florida

15 Best Shell Key Kayak Tours

The clear-kayak runs over Shell Key Preserve: transparent hulls above the grass flats, sunset glow tours lit from the boats and dolphins surfacing at paddle distance. The preserve is bird sanctuary and sandbar at once; the kayaks float its whole length.

3.Shell Key Clear Kayak Sunset & Glow Tours

Experience the unique thrill of paddling clear kayaks illuminated by LED lights at Shell Key Preserve, exploring wildlife after dark in St. Petersburg.

★ 5.0

“Jada was a fantastic guide! She made our trip entertaining and educational. She made sure we had waters and kept our lights running.”

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4.Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve

Experience a peaceful kayak tour through Shell Key Preserve, paddle mangroves, spot wildlife, and enjoy beach stops—ideal for nature lovers and beginners alike.

★ 5.0

“Wonderful day on the water! Mangroves were beautiful. Taylor was an incredible tour guide! You won’t disappointed and I highly recommend it.”

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5.Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John’s Pass

Explore Shell Key Preserve on a relaxing 3-hour cruise from Johns Pass, enjoying shelling, wildlife sightings, and scenic boat rides in St. Petersburg.

★ 5.0

“I’m so glad I did this! Captain Robyn and First Mate Braelyn were fun, entertaining and informative. We were lucky enough to see dolphins swimming right by the boat multiple times! Shell Island is beautiful and relaxing. Grab a broken shell and hook it on…”

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6.Shell Key Ferry from Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp in Tierra Verde, FL

Experience a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from Ft. DeSoto to Shell Key, with ample time for shelling, swimming, and wildlife spotting in pristine surroundings.

★ 5.0

“Bring sunscreen and an umbrella for shade. There are no trees or shade anywhere. Bring a lot of water and snacks. Plan on walking a lot. Not everything on the Web site is the same in person. There are no places to rent anything, no…”

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7.Kayak Adventure of Shell Key Preserve & Island with a Local

Discover Shell Key Preserve on a guided kayak tour—spot dolphins and manatees, paddle mangroves, and relax on Shell Key Island for a memorable Florida adventure.

★ 5.0

“We truly enjoyed our day with Scott and Karissa. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and down-to-earth people. Scott gave great kayak pointers before we started our day to ensure a smooth experience. Gave interesting facts about the wildlife and environment of the mangroves. All in all worth…”

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8.Small-Group Clear Kayak Tour in Shell Key

Discover Shell Key's natural beauty on a small-group clear kayak tour, featuring wildlife sightings, mangrove tunnels, and expert guides for an authentic Florida adventure.

★ 4.5

“We had a great time, tour guide “Taylor “was amazing and very informative about the area and wildlife…. The only thing I would change for the next visit would be to get a regular kayak instead of the clear bottom kayak… too wide and hard…”

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10.Exclusive Kayak Expedition: Exploring the Mangroves to Shell Key

Discover St. Petersburg’s waterways with this private kayak tour through mangrove tunnels to Shell Key. Enjoy wildlife encounters, personalized routes, and expert guides for an authentic Florida experience.

★ 4.5

“Neil was very informative and super fun! Great guy! Great tour! Easy to communicate with and just a lot of fun!”

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12.Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove & Sandbar Adventure in St. Pete Beach

Experience Florida's wildlife on a self-guided glass bottom kayak adventure exploring mangroves, sandbars, and islands near St. Pete Beach for $62.

★ 4.0

“Jake and Logan met us with all the gear to have a great time. Easy-to-use on time and friendly. Went over all safety and recommended good spots to see. Long enough to paddle, relax, collect shells. Worth the money for sure. My frie d never…”

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13.2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure Including Dolphins And Shells

Discover Shell Key Island on a 2.5-hour boat trip with dolphin sightings, shell hunting, and wildlife encounters, led by experienced guides in Florida.

★ 5.0

“We had booked a much more expensive tour that cancelled last minute. I booked the ferry and would not have changed a thing Sierra was awesome! Very quick boat ride, shells everywhere.”

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14.Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour To Shell Key – St. Pete, FL

Explore Florida's pristine barrier islands with a guided kayak tour through mangrove tunnels, wildlife spotting, and beach relaxation—an authentic eco-adventure.

★ 5.0

“We had an amazing experience with Taylor as our guide she was very informative and we highly recommend going on the tour!”

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More Shell Key Kayak Tours

Explore St Petersburg, Florida

Clear kayaks, resident dolphins and Gulf sunsets on schedule.