Shell Key Ferry from Fort De Soto: 20-min Ride to Island
The ferry ride itself is where you spot wildlife.
A ferry service from Fort De Soto boat ramp to Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island with white sand and shelling, runs daily in spring and summer and nearly every day in fall and winter. The 20-minute crossing offers frequent sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, manatees and sea birds. Shell Key includes a nature preserve protecting half the island for native seabirds. Overnight camping is available with a Pinellas County permit and your own gear.
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The experience
The ferry departs from the Fort De Soto boat ramp, where the historic fort itself (a Spanish American War military outpost and now Pinellas County's largest park) sits on the National Register of Historic Places. The 20-minute ride to Shell Key is not a transfer. It is the experience. Dolphins, sea turtles and manatees appear regularly on the crossing, and sea birds show up on both legs of the trip. The boat has a restroom on board.
Shell Key itself is an uninhabited barrier island with white sand, warm water and shelling. Nearly half the island is closed to protect native seabirds and their nesting habitat, leaving the rest open for swimming, walking and collecting shells. There are no structures, no vendors and no crowds. The island is what it is, and that is the point.
For overnight visitors, camping on Shell Key is possible if you bring your own gear and have a camping permit from Pinellas County. It is a rare chance to sleep on a secluded island under the stars, though the logistics (permit, equipment, transport) are entirely on you. Day trips need no advance planning beyond showing up at the boat ramp.
What’s included
- Restroom on board the ferry.
- service animals allowed.
Options for this experience
2 optionsBefore you book
Prices and times updated yesterday
Operated by Hubbard's Marina
Is this one for you?Book the ferry day trip if you want to visit the island and return the same day. Choose the overnight camping option if you have your own gear and a county permit and prefer to stay on the island.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 11 years); Infant (under 3): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
How often does the ferry run to Shell Key?
The ferry operates daily in spring and summer, and nearly every day in fall and winter. Service depends on weather and season, so checking ahead before you go is a good idea.
What wildlife might I see on the ferry ride?
Dolphins, sea turtles and manatees appear regularly on the 20-minute crossing to Shell Key. Sea birds show up on both the outbound and return trips.
Can I camp overnight on Shell Key?
Yes, overnight camping is available on Shell Key if you bring your own gear and obtain a camping permit from Pinellas County. You will need a camper ferry ticket in addition to the permit.
What is there to do on Shell Key itself?
Shell Key is an uninhabited barrier island with white sand and warm water. You can swim, walk, collect shells and explore the beach. Nearly half the island is protected as a nature preserve for seabirds, so that section is off-limits.
Is there a restroom on the ferry?
Yes, the ferry boat has a restroom on board for the 20-minute ride to Shell Key.
Shell Key Ferry from Fort De Soto: 20-min Ride to Island
20m
from US$ 39 per person
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