If you're looking for a new and exciting way to spend a day around Naples, Florida, consider going on a shelling tour. Shelling is a great activity for people of all ages and can be a fun way to learn about the local wildlife.

Shelling tours from Naples, Florida are the perfect way to spend a few hours. You'll collect an assortment of keepsakes from your vacation, which you can turn into jewelry or decorate, and you may even see dolphins along the way.

You will find below all you need to know about shelling tours, one of the most fun outdoor activities from Naples, Florida.

What are the best shelling tours from Naples, Florida?

Cape Romano shelling and sightseeing boat tour

This shelling tour takes you to see the unique home of Bob Lee, which sits on the water and is made from a selection of white domes. You'll pass by Kice Island, which is known as a haven for bald eagles, and if you're lucky, you may see once flying regally overhead.

You'll continue on your tour towards Cape Romano, learning about the marine life that calls this stretch of ocean home. When you reach Cape Romano, you'll see the unusual concrete dome structures, which have been abandoned in the middle of the sea, and date back to 1982.

On your excursion, you'll also have the opportunity to go shelling and weave your way through a forest of mangroves by boat.

Shelling boat tour in the Ten Thousand islands

This shelling tour takes you to the National Wildlife Refuge of the Ten Thousand Islands. Your boat trip will take place in a small group of no more than 17 participants, which provides a more personal experience.

Once inside the wildlife refuge, you'll travel to a secluded island, such as Sanibel or Captiva. Here, you'll have the opportunity to collect the most fascinating shells on the beach, undisturbed by other travelers.

Your guide will be a certified naturalist who provides you with in-depth information on how sea life is affected by different factors, such as tides. The boat ride itself is thrilling as you'll be able to look out for many forms of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles.

Sunset shelling kayak tour

This shelling adventure also takes you to the Ten Thousand Islands, under the orange hue of sunset. You'll paddle in a kayak through the vast mangrove forest of Rookery Bay.

You'll search for shells on a deserted island while learning about the variety of creatures that live in this part of Florida. These include sea life, such as sea urchins, manatees and dolphins, as well as gopher tortoises, and several tropical birds.

You'll stop at an ocean inlet, where you'll watch the sun set on the horizon, turning the sky into a watercolor painting of oranges and pinks.

Eco shelling cruise to Keewaydin Island

On this shelling cruise, you'll travel to Keewaydin Island, which has over 10 kilometers of untouched sand to search for shells on. You'll be part of a small group and start your tour from Naples — also known as Tin City for the tin roofs of its oyster processing shacks.

When you arrive on the island, you'll take a guided nature walk, picking up shells along the way. As you explore the waters surrounding the island, you'll have a good chance of seeing dolphins chittering playfully in their natural habitat.

Catamaran shelling excursion

This relaxing tour transports you to the Gulf of Mexico, where you'll have the opportunity to go shelling and swimming on a remote island. Alternatively, you can spend your day simply lazing around on deck. Your excursion takes place on a catamaran and you'll be offered alcoholic beverages on your way to the Gulf of Mexico.

How much do shelling tours from Naples, Florida cost?

Shelling tours from Naples typically cost between US$80 and US$90, regardless of your destination.

If you wish to take a private shelling excursion that focuses on dolphin-watching, you can expect to pay US$490 for a group of up to six. Divided equally, each person will pay just over US$80.

What is included in a shelling tour from Naples, Florida?

Shelling tours from Naples, Florida usually include a guide who is knowledgeable about the ecosystem and can provide fascinating information on wildlife in the area.

Some tours include extras, such as photos from your excursion or alcoholic beverages.

Where do shelling tours from Naples, Florida start?

Many shelling tours from Naples, Florida meet at Goodland Boat Park, located in Goodland Bay, approximately a 30-minute drive south of the city.

Others begin at Caxambas Park and Marina in Collier County, which also takes 30 minutes to reach by car from the center of Naples.

You'll always be informed of the meeting point before booking so that you have ample time to arrange transportation.

How long do shelling tours from Naples, Florida last?

Most shelling tours from Naples, Florida last between two and three hours. All of the islands are located close to the mainland, which means you'll have ample opportunity to look for shells and discover the waters around Naples.

When is the best time for a shelling tour from Naples, Florida?

You should consider booking your shelling tour from Naples, Florida during the dry season — between November and April. At this time, the seas are calm and there is a low chance of rain.

While you can enjoy shelling excursions at any time of day, consider booking a sunset tour for an unforgettable memory of your time in Naples.

Are there any combo available with shelling tours from Naples, Florida?

Private shelling and dolphin excursion

This combination tour takes you on an adventure through the largest mangrove forest in the United States toward the Ten Thousand Islands. Along the way, you'll travel through areas known for their abundance of dolphins, and you may even get to see one up close!

You'll learn about the history of the islands and have the opportunity to fill your pockets with an assortment of the beach's most remarkable shells.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Good weather is required for shelling excursions from Naples, Florida to operate. If the weather is poor, you'll be offered the opportunity to rebook for another day. If this doesn't work with your itinerary, you'll be issued a full refund.

Travel tips

Bring a small bag with you on your adventure, to collect all of your shells.
Double-check your treasures on all shelling trips from Naples, Florida. It's illegal to remove a live shell from the beach.
Low tide is the best time to go shelling in Naples, Florida.
While journeying through the water, keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees and possibly an alligator.

Shelling Tours in Naples, Florida