50/50 Shell Key Kayak Tour
- $42 per person
- approximately 3 hours
The 50/50 Shell Key Kayak Tour is 50% kayaking, 50% nature, and 100% ideal for people who want it all. You get two expert guides who are also the owners, Scott & Karissa, to navigate you through the 1880 acres of Shell Key Preserve, including the mangrove tunnels (tide permitting) and time your adventure just right to give you the best possible chance at seeing dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife who only visit the area at certain times. You also will have time to explore the island of Shell Key, whether that means shelling, swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the view. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
Keep in mind our tours take place in a shallow saltwater preserve, which is part of the intracoastal waterway. We do not kayak in the open gulf. We are the only company that uses stable, comfortable sit-inside recreational touring kayaks with backrests, which makes for a better overall experience. There are no alligators, and most of the water is knee to waist-deep; perfect for both beginners and experts. Children 3 and older are welcome, and anyone under 12 must be in a tandem with an adult. Some of our tandem kayaks have an optional 3rd seat for small children, which can be selected while making your reservation. Book online to schedule your adventure!
If you have any questions, please contact us by phone, text, or email.
What to expect from a Shell Key kayak tour with Island Kayak Adventures...
Come out and have some fun with us as we explore the shallow seagrass beds of Shell Key Preserve. Depending on the time of year you visit us, we might see a wide variety of birds including cormorants, brown pelicans, white pelicans, skimmers, terns, various egrets and herons, and ospreys. Below the waterline, we might see spider crabs, blue crabs, whelks & conchs, jumping mullet, sooty & ragged sea hares, and more! During our summer months, we have a better opportunity to see manatees. We are always on the lookout for dolphins, which live in the area, often with their calves, year-round.
After exploring by water, we make our way onto the barrier island of Shell Key. There you can stretch your legs by strolling the pristine island and choosing your own adventure. Guests can swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, collect a variety of different shells, including sand dollars, whelks, cockles, scallops, banded tulips, and so many more. You can also choose to pack a lunch and simply relax & enjoy the peaceful, quiet views from the beach of Pinellas County’s largest undeveloped barrier island.
Watch our short video for a more visual description of what we offer. Our YouTube Channel has more short videos from our personal and professional kayaking adventures. Visit our social media page or photos page to see pictures from some of our past Shell Key kayak tours. Visit our review page to read what others are saying about their Shell Key kayak tour with Island Kayak Adventures.
We always recommend bringing water, sunscreen or protective clothing/hat, a towel, sunglasses, and a Ziploc bag to keep your personal items & phone dry. Please read our FAQ for more tips for a great adventure.
We are always watching the weather. If we must cancel your tour due to bad weather, you will have the option to reschedule or immediately receive a full refund.
