Shell Key Ferry: Uninhabited Island & Wildlife from Ft. DeSoto

Summary

Ferry to Shell Key for wild beaches dolphins and shelling

You’ll board at Fort De Soto and take a quick ferry across bright water to Shell Key—a wild barrier island where you can spot dolphins or manatees on the way, hunt for shells along quiet beaches, or even camp overnight if you’re feeling adventurous. Bring your own snacks, maybe too many like I did, and let yourself slow down for a while.

What’s the experience like?

I remember how the air changed as soon as we left the Fort De Soto boat ramp—salty, but softer than I expected. There was this low hum of families shuffling their bags and kids already arguing about who’d find the best shell. Our captain, Mike (he’s local—told us he’s been running these ferries since before I could drive), pointed out a couple of pelicans gliding just above the water. I tried to snap a photo but honestly, it was better just watching them.

The ride over to Shell Key only took about 20 minutes, but in that short time, we saw two dolphins surfacing near the bow. Someone yelled “manatee!” and everyone rushed to one side—I nearly lost my hat in the scramble. The sun was out but not harsh, and there was this mix of sunscreen and seaweed in the air that felt…well, like summer should feel. Mike told us about the nature preserve on Shell Key—half of it’s blocked off for seabirds so you get these stretches of untouched sand where it’s just you and whatever shells have washed up overnight.

Once we landed, there wasn’t much noise except for gulls squabbling over scraps and waves nudging at your ankles. We wandered off with our bags (I brought way too many snacks) and found a spot away from everyone else. The sand here is finer than what I’m used to—almost squeaky underfoot—and every so often you’ll spot someone holding up a conch shell like they’ve won something big. If you’re into camping, they let you stay overnight with a permit; I met a couple who were setting up their tent right at sunset, laughing about how they forgot their coffee pot but remembered marshmallows. That stuck with me for some reason.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferry trip and island exploration

• Board ferry at Fort De Soto boat ramp
• Travel 20 minutes to Shell Key
• Spot dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees
• Explore Shell Key's white sand beaches
• Enjoy shelling on the island

Top questions

How long is the ferry ride from Ft. DeSoto to Shell Key?

The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes each way.

Are restrooms available on board the ferry?

Yes, there is a restroom on board the ferry.

Can I bring my dog or service animal on the Shell Key ferry?

Service animals are allowed on the ferry.

Is camping allowed on Shell Key?

Campsites are available with a Pinellas County permit and camper ferry ticket.

What wildlife might I see during the trip?

You may see dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and various seabirds during the trip.

Where does the ferry depart from?

The ferry departs from Fort De Soto boat ramp in Tierra Verde, FL.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Fort De Soto boat ramp.

Is this trip suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip ferry transport from Fort De Soto boat ramp to Shell Key with an experienced local captain at the helm; there’s a restroom on board for comfort along the way. Camping is possible if you have your own gear plus a county permit—just grab your “camper” ticket before boarding.