A 1,828-acre archipelago at the mouth of Tampa Bay off Florida’s Gulf Coast, Shell Key Preserve is frequented primarily by birds and other wildlife. For people to get there, they must take a boat to …

Aug 1, 2025 · Tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Shell Key Preserve is one of Florida’s largest and most pristine barrier islands; in a state facing increasing commercialization of …

Where is Shell Key Preserve Located? Shell Key Preserve is a pristine barrier island located near Tierra Verde, Florida, just south of St. Pete Beach and west of Fort De Soto Park.

It includes one of the County’s largest undeveloped barrier islands (Shell Key) as well as numerous mangrove islands and expansive seagrass beds. Shell Key is one of the state’s most important areas …

Discover the hidden gem of Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island with pristine white sand, warm water, and abundant shelling opportunities. Join us for a scenic ferry ride from the Fort De Soto boat …

Shell Key emerged as a barrier island in the early 1960s from a submerged shoal on the north side of Bunces Pass (the island was originally named North Bunces Key). The island extends up to the Pass …

Nov 9, 2025 · Shell Key Preserve, covering 1,800 acres, is an ecological gem located just off the southwestern coast of Florida. This preserve consists of a series of islands and mangroves, creating …

Get everything you need to visit Shell Key and learn more about this wonderful local destination. We have information on boat navigation, wilderness camping, visitor rules, science and history of the …

Spanning five small islands, the 1,136-acre Fort De Soto Park lies at the mouth of Tampa Bay and attracts more than 2.7 million visitors a year. The park features 7 miles of waterfront, two...

Aug 8, 2025 · Tucked away in Tampa Bay lies a pristine barrier island that most tourists never find. Shell Key Preserve remains one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, accessible only by boat or kayak.