7 Top Marco Island Shelling Tours for Rare Shells
Looking for the best Marco Island shelling tours to find unique and rare shells? 🐚
You’ve come to the right place!
Marco Island is a great destination for shelling, with its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The warm climate and abundant marine life make it the perfect place to go exploring for shells, and there are plenty of shelling tours that can take you to the best spots.
I’ve put together a list of the best Marco Island shelling tours, so you can find the most unique and rare shells without spending too much time searching. Let’s dive in!
⏰ SHORT ON TIME?
🐚 This 10,000 Islands Tour is one of the BEST shelling tours Marco Island offers and my top pick!
The Best Marco Island Shelling Tours
Each of these Marco Island shelling tours is highly rated and offers excellent customer service. You won’t be disappointed with whatever option you choose!
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
1. Ten Thousand Islands, Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours
😍 734+ reviews
If you’re looking for an unparalleled Marco Island shelling tour experience, then a boat tour with all of the best sights and the chance for prime shelling is the perfect choice!
You’ll get to explore the area’s breathtaking natural environment and spot some of Florida’s rarest shells along the way.
We went out with Christina and she was amazing! We’ve never had such a great experience. She was knowledgeable about the history, wild life and shells. We saw several dolphins. She shell hunted with us and showed us the best spots and where to look for sand dollars (my wife’s favorite). We came home with 6 really nice ones. Can’t say enough good things about our experience!
-John (See more reviews)
With a knowledgeable guide at your side, navigate through the mesmerizing Ten Thousand Islands and discover the hidden gems that make up this unique mangrove ecosystem.
Whether you’re a nature lover or a shell collector, you’ll be sure to find something special on this Marco Island shelling and dolphin tour!
What’s Included on this tour?
- Local guide
- Cooler with ice
- Chance to see dolphins and find rare shells!
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
2. Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours
😍 227+ reviews
Experience coastal Florida’s stunning scenery and abundant wildlife up close on one of the top-rated Marco Island shelling tours! Embark on a naturalist-guided boat tour to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge with just a small group for company.
On board, you’ll spot plenty of dolphins, pelicans, spoonbills, manatees, sea turtles and more with your experienced guide. After a brief boat ride, you’ll disembark at an uninhabited barrier island to go shelling in peace and serenity.
“This was the best dolphin excursion that we have taken! The crew was great and even though there is no guarantee of seeing dolphins we saw several that then swam along the boat. The island with the shells, had many sand dollars and larger shells, could have spent more time there.”
-Carla (See more reviews)
With such a small group experience, you’ll get a personal, hands-on experience like no other as you explore the area on a Ten Thousand Islands shelling tour.
Your certified naturalist guide will provide plenty of insight into the incredible wildlife you see, and you can simply relax on board to admire the stunning coastal views.
What’s Included on this tour?
- Captain
- Naturalist Guide
- All necessary safety equipment
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
3. Wild Dolphins, Birding and Shelling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours
😍 145+ reviews
Experience the wonders of Marco Island’s Ten Thousand Islands refuge on a serene and educational shelling tour.
Embark with a few fellow travelers and cruise through intimate islets, keeping an eye out for marine life like dolphins, manatees, bald eagles, and more.
“Thank you for the best trip I ever had! We love everything about it!! Whole Family of dolphins fallow the boat it was magical and the most beautiful thing we ever seen in our life!! Nice walk at the island and a lots of beautiful shells ! Thank you so much for you guys !!”
-anna (See more reviews)
Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will show you the local plants and wildlife, before leading you to a remote island where you can search for rare seashells.
With no large groups getting in the way, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learn more about the area from your naturalist guide. This exclusive tour offers more personal attention and an increased chance of finding those hard-to-find seashells!
What’s Included on this tour?
- Personalized Tour
- Local Guide
- Wildlife Spotting
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
4. Eco Shelling Boat to Keewaydin Island
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours
😍 110+ reviews
Treat yourself to a Marco Island shelling tour that is second to none! Explore pristine beaches and landscapes on your journey from Naples, Florida to Keewaydin Island.
Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, dolphins, and even manatees along the way. Once you reach the remote island, take a nature walk and fill up your bag with unique shells and beach treasures.
“The whole family enjoyed the experience! Friendly crew, nice ride, and amazing shells! We would definitely use this company again!”
-Stephanie (See more reviews)
Your knowledgeable captain will provide insight into the local environment as you soak up the sun. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery and wildlife sightings along this top-rated Marco Island shelling tour.
Plus, the small group setting means more personalized attention from your guide, so you can make sure you don’t miss out on any Marco Island shelling opportunities!
What’s Included on this tour?
- Local guide
- Shelling bag for each guest
- Bottled water
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
5. Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands Florida
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours
😍 71+ reviews
This 10,000 Islands tour is one of the best around. The excursion begins with a guided boat trip to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll get to explore some of the most secluded and untouched coastlines in the Gulf of Mexico.
Led by a certified master naturalist, you’ll be able to listen to their expert commentary on the science of sea life in the area. What’s more, with a maximum of 17 travelers per tour, you can be sure that the experience will be intimate and personalized.
“Loved it all- dolphins, eagle, osprey, manatees, beautiful shelling beach. Fun time for all ages. Captain was very knowledgeable, crew very helpful”
-Barbara (See more reviews)
You won’t just get to hunt for an array of rare shells along these untouched coastlines, but you’ll also get to spot some of the local wildlife species such as sea turtles, bottlenosed dolphins, pelicans, and manatees.
With the smaller group size, you’ll be able to take your time and enjoy a more relaxed exploration of the area.
What’s Included on this tour?
- 10,000 Islands Shelling Tour
- Playful dolphins!
- Local guide
The Best Private Shelling Boat Tours
Want a more intimate experience with better opportunities to find the best shells on your Marco Island shelling tour? Then perhaps a private tour is for you!
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
6. Private Eco Boat Trip out of Naples Bay, FL
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 45 minutes
😍 22+ reviews
If you’re looking for a Marco Island shelling tour that takes you to the best possible spots, then this Private Eco Tour by Boat is your go-to choice.
Along with scenic views of Naples Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, this Marco Island shelling tour will take you to Ten Thousand Islands, Gordon Pass, and Keewaydin Island. Here, you’ll be able to explore the rich, local wildlife and find some of the rarest shells in all of Florida.
“The tour guide is very knowledgeable and lets you customize. Boat was comfortable and there is shade. He found us dolphins and a manatee! Beach on the island was like a Caribbean beach…”
-Jenna (See more reviews)
You’re sure to come across an array of animals such as dolphins, manatees, blue herons, and deer. Plus, a knowledgeable guide will provide you with all the background information on the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
With a private group of up to five people, this is the best shelling tour Marco Island offers and is perfect for families or small groups of friends. Make the most out of your trip to Marco Island and explore its beautiful landscape in search of rare shells!
What’s Included on this tour?
- Private transportation
- Local guide
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Ponchos in case of rain
Top-Rated Shelling Tours
7. Private Half-Day Charter Tour in Naples, Florida
⭐️ RATING: 5 of 5 Stars
⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours
😍 23+ reviews
One of the best Marco Island shelling tours is a private boat excursion. Not only can you customize your own tour based on what interests you, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful waterways in Florida.
With hassle-free pickups from nearby accommodations and access to a private vessel, you’ll enjoy a tailor-made experience without the hassle of crowded boat tours so you can observe local wildlife and hunt for rare shells native to the Gulf Coast.
“My girls and I had a wonderful time with Captain Buddy. We saw dolphins which was a high point plus relaxing at Keewaydin beach was great. We loved cruising the waterways too! We would definitely recommend Captain Buddy!”
-Doreen (See more reviews)
Professional guides can provide insight into where to find them, making it easier for even those with no prior knowledge of shelling to make the most of their tour.
With a private boat, you can explore Marco Island with an intimate group and enjoy as much time for shelling as you desire. This Marco Island shelling tour offers an unforgettable foray into some of the most stunning natural areas of Florida!
What’s Included on this tour?
- Bottled water
- Private transportation
- Local guide
Why is the Island good for Shelling?
Marco Island boasts a stunning natural landscape full of untouched beaches and coastline, making it an ideal spot for shelling. Its coastal region is home to numerous varieties of rare and beautiful shells, including conchs, scallops, junonia’s, and much more.
What’s more, the shallow waters off Marco Island’s coasts are an ideal environment for these shells to thrive.
The area is also home to a wide range of wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees, giving you the chance to spot some of these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Types of Shells to be Found
Marco Island is home to a variety of different shells, such as:
- Conchs, including Florida Fighting Conch and Horse Conch
- Scallops, including the Atlantic Calico Scallop
- Junonia’s (one of the most rare Marco Island shells you can find!)
- Clams
- Oysters
- Banded Tulips
- Whelks, including Lightning Whelks and Knobbed Whelks
- Cockles
- Moon Snails
- Lettered Olive
- Murex
- Common American Auger
- Sunray Venus
- Alphabet Cone
- Atlantic Fig Snail
- Sand dollars (non-living only, otherwise it’s illegal!)
No matter what type of shell you’re looking for, it’s likely that you can find it on Marco Island’s stunning beaches!
What do I Need to Bring for a Shelling Tour?
If you’re planning a Marco Island shelling tour, it’s important to bring the right supplies. Make sure you have sunscreen (Reef Safe is a great brand especially if you plan on swimming at all due to certain chemicals disrupting the ecosystem).
Other items you shouldn’t forget include a hat or visor, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, a swimsuit, towel, snacks and drinks, a beach bag and a first-aid kit (just to be safe). Also make sure you’ve eaten a good breakfast beforehand so you’re energized and ready for the day!
This way you can have everything you need to make your Marco Island shelling tour an unforgettable experience!
FAQ: What to Know Before a Tour
Still have questions about Marco Island boat tours? I’ve answered some of the more frequently asked questions below.
The best time of year for shelling on Marco Island is generally from mid-May to late August. During this time, the Gulf Coast waters are typically warmer and calmer, creating ideal conditions for shells to grow and thrive.
The best places to find shells on Marco Island are in the shallow waters of its beaches and bays, especially on the westernmost beaches. This is where you’ll typically find the most shells, as they tend to congregate in these areas.
It really depends on your preferences. Sanibel is typically known for its larger and more colorful shells, while Marco Island is known for its variety of rare and exotic shells. So if you’re looking for something more unique, Marco Island is the way to go.
Yes, there are sand dollars on Marco Island! You’ll typically find them in the shallow waters near shore and around shells. Just remember to be respectful and only take what you need.
Yes, Tigertail Beach is a great spot for shelling. It’s known as one of the best beaches on Marco Island and its shallow waters make it ideal for finding shells. Plus, the beach is full of wildlife which can add to your experience!
There are plenty of areas nearby that are great for finding rare shells and many of the above shelling tours will take you to them. Keewaydin Island, Kice Island, and really any of place within or near the Ten Thousand Islands.
Final Thoughts: Best Marco Island Shelling Tours
If you’re looking for one of the best Southwest Florida adventures that allows you to explore the natural beauty of Marco Island and discover its unique shells, then Marco Island shelling tours are for you.
With guided boat tours ranging from private charters to group excursions, there’s something for everyone. Families, couples, and groups of friends can all find the perfect tour to fit their needs.
The stunning beaches and shallow waters are ideal for shell-seekers, and you can even spot some of the island’s unique wildlife along the way.
No matter what type of shell you’re looking for, Marco Island shelling boat tours are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
So grab your sunscreen and hat, and get ready for some of the best shelling Marco Island has to offer.
Happy shell-hunting! 🐚
