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.

2.Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key

Experience a 2-hour small group dolphin cruise from St. Pete Beach, with snorkeling at Shell Key Island. Spot wildlife, enjoy scenic views, and relax.

★ 5.0

“Captain Noel was fantastic! From the moment we set off, he kept the energy high with great music and a fun, welcoming vibe. When we arrived at the sandbar, he didn’t just sit back, he joined right in, helping us and the kids discover all…”

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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

“Went on a LED light night tour and had an absolute blast. It was so beautiful out there. A night tour is a great way to have super fun and stay out of the hot sun. I would definitely do this again!”

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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

“Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a towel or beach chair to sit on. Also a small cooler with a couple drinks and a snack is a good idea. Chips and peanuts and canned soda and water is for sale on boat if you forget. Bathing suit…”

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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

“Professional and fun. It’s a short ferry ride from The De Soto Park boat ramp to Shell island. We went on the 10am to and returned at 2:30. Perfect day!”

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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 had a great time with Scott & Karissa, owners of the Island Kayak Tours. They are really really nice people and will take care of everyone. They made sure all are safe while enjoying the kayaking and seeing all the wild animals. Scott has…”

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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 liked the mangrove tunnels they were beautiful but there was some trouble with the weather not their fault though. And the staff were very nice and helpful to a beginner!”

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9.Guided Kayak EcoTour of Beautiful Shell Key Preserve

Discover Shell Key Preserve with this guided kayak eco-tour. Paddle through mangroves, relax on beaches, and spot dolphins for a memorable nature experience.

★ 4.5

“It was a great tour! Nick was awesome! He is very knowledgeable of the area, wildlife, environment, & shared interesting information. He was very attentive, friendly & easy going with everyone! Even though I accidentally started with another tour group, he was very gracious about!…”

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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 created a great experience for my friend and I visiting. He was very patient and knowledgeable-would definitely do it again and recommend to all!”

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11.Kayak Tour at Gandy Beach Mangroves with Capt Yak with Capt Yak

Discover the Gandy Beach Mangroves kayaking tour led by expert guide Capt Yak, exploring Shell Key Preserve, wildlife, and mangrove tunnels for a unique eco-adventure.

★ 5.0

“I had never been kayaking before, Capt Yak was a great teacher and patient with me on how to use the paddles. He was also very knowledgeable of the wildlife and history of the area. He also took pictures of my friends and I. I’m…”

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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.