Last Updated on March 2, 2023
Do you enjoy finding islands that are uninhabited, undeveloped, and natural? These days, it’s not easy to find a real barrier island that is unpopulated. Prepare yourself for Shell Key. It’s truly the “real deal” with a world-class beach, fantastic birding, and of course, shells galore.
Visiting Shell Key
Shell Key is also popular with boaters, kayakers, naturalists, snorkelers, fishermen, campers, and astronomers (who enjoy the dark nights on the island without lights).
Where is Shell Key?
As part of the Shell Key Preserve, Shell Island (or Key) can only be reached by boat. Located in Pinellas County, between Fort Desoto Park and Pass-A-Grille Beach, you can load your kayak or boat off State Road 679 by taking the Pinellas Byway South through Terra Verde.
If you have a kayak or are part of a group kayak tour, that is the way to go. If you have a boat, there is a very large boat ramp off the road that will take you through the Bunces Pass and out to the Gulf of Mexico.
Also, many of the charter boats that make the trip to nearby Egmont Key also have trips to the island. Most popular is the Shell Key Shuttle which leaves from the Merry Pier, located on the bayside of Pass-A-Grille at 801 Pass-a-Grille Way.
What can you see on Shell Key?
Birds are everywhere – so bring your binoculars. Sandbars crop up and create fantastic birding opportunities. Birders delight in this natural habitat, and shorebirds are abundant depending on the tides.
The backside of the Key is accessible by kayak. You can land on the back side of the island and walk to the opposite side fairly easily.
There is nothing more enjoyable than looking for shells more so than on Shell Key. Many find shells they have not seen for decades. It can be euphoric. You might feel like you are mining for treasures.
Facts you might not know
- 2.5 miles long with 1800 acres
- Protected 110-acre “bird preservation area and sanctuary” for nesting, migrating, and wintering birds
- Certain (and significant) areas of the island are posted off-limits as a critical nesting area for various endangered or threatened shorebirds
- There are no restroom facilities on the island.
Tips for Visiting Shell Key
- Bring your own food and carry out what you bring
- If you can, go during the week
- Be sure to never take a shell that has a live animal inside
- Visit www.shellkey.org to learn more
- For shuttle service: www.shellkeyshuttle.com
Looking for even more shelling fun? Check out: Let’s Shellebrate Summer in Southwest Florida.
Where to Eat Near Shell Key
Sea Worthy Fish Bar
After spending a day at Shell Key you will want to sit down for a delicious seafood dinner. Sea Worthy Fish Bar is only six miles away and offers a variety of fresh seafood menu options.
If you are looking to try a variety of options on their menu, opt for the shared plates on their menu. They offer a large variety including seared octopus, truffle parmesan fries, and chef’s catch ceviche.
If you are hoping to find something just for you, try the seared scallops, gulf shrimp, or even the chef’s catch of the day. You can also find a great selection of drinks you’re sure to love.
TIPS:
- Sea Worthy Fish Bar is open Friday and Saturday from 4:30-10:30 PM and Tuesday and Wednesday from 4:30-9:30 PM.
- The restaurant offers a daily whole fish special. Inquire with your server about what is being offered when you visit.
- A kid’s menu is available with non-seafood options as well as fish bites.
For more information, visit the Sea Worthy Fish Bar Website.
Sea Worthy Fish Bar Address: 1110 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Additional Places to Eat Near Shell Key
- Billy’s Stone Crab – 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
- Shell’s Seafood – 7081 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Seahorse Restaurant – 800 Pass a Grille Way, Pass-a-Grille Beach, FL 33706
- Brass Monkey – 709 Gulf Way #200, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Grace Restaurant – 120 8th Ave, Pass-a-Grille Beach, FL 33706
Where to Stay Near Shell Key
The Saint Hotel
The Saint Hotel is located a few miles away from the island. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long beach day.
Spend a night sleeping off a busy day in one of the beautiful modern rooms offered at The Saint Hotel.
If you want to enjoy a nice evening outside, visit the lawn that features activities, fire pits, and comfortable couches to relax on.
If you need to grab a bite to eat, you will want to visit 82 Degrees. Menu items include custom drinks, brunch, and so much more.
For more information, visit The Saint Hotel Website.
Saint Hotel Address: 7201 Sunset Way St Pete Beach, Florida 33706
More Places to Stay Near Shell Key
- The Beachcomber – 6200 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Bay Palms Waterfront Resort – 4237 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Sirata Beach Resort – 5300 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Postcard on the Beach – 6300 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- St. Pete Beach Suites – 6801 Sunset Way, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Where to Shop Near Shell Key
Freaky Tiki
Freaky Tike Surf Shack is your one stop shop for local merchandise you are sure to love. From the outside, it doesn’t look like there are treasures to be found. Step inside and find so much more.
The Freaky Tiki sells a variety of merchandise themed after the shop. Pick out a special Freaky Tiki memento to take home with you.
For more information visit Freaky Tiki online.
Freaky Tiki Address: 5210 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
More Places to Stay Near Shell Key
- Betty Shop –6380 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Dody Boutique – 107 8th Ave, Suite E, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 USA
- Island Produce – 1120 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Looking for more to do in the area?
Hello!
Thank you for this article! My husband and I are wanting to check out shell key this weekend. I wanted to know if you had a specific spot you launched your kayak from?
Thank you!
Hi Colleen! The best place to launch a kayak to Shell Key would be Ft. DeSoto Boat ramp. It’s less than a mile from the island and centrally located for exploring the entire preserve and the Ft. DeSoto park area. Enjoy! — Team Authentic Florida