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GUIDED KAYAK TOURS TO SHELL KEY FROM ST PETERSBURG, FL

Kayak Tours St Pete

⭐ Top-rated eco kayak tours • Local guides • Small groups • Perfect for beginners

Kayak Tours St Pete
Kayak Tours St Pete
Kayak Tours St Pete
Kayak Tours St Pete
Kayak Tours St Pete
Kayak Tours St Pete

Explore the calm, scenic waters of Tampa Bay and St Pete on a guided kayak tour to Shell Key Preserve with Island Ferry. Choose between clear kayaks or traditional coastal kayaks as you paddle through mangrove tunnels, seagrass flats, and protected island waters just minutes from St. Pete Beach. These small-group Shell Key kayak tours offer a peaceful, wildlife-focused way to experience one of Florida’s most beautiful natural preserves.

Kayak Tours Through Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key Preserve is an undeveloped, protected barrier island and one of the most unique paddling destinations in the St Petersburg area. Island Ferry’s Shell Key kayak tours take place in calm, shallow waters that are ideal for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and eco exploration. Because the preserve is only accessible by water, it remains quiet, natural, and free from crowds.

Our guided routes wind through mangrove tunnels and seagrass beds, offering excellent visibility into the ecosystem below and frequent opportunities to see wildlife up close.

Choose Your Shell Key Kayak Experience

Clear Kayak Tours to Shell Key

Our clear kayak tours in St. Petersburg provide a one-of-a-kind paddling experience, allowing you to see directly into the water beneath your kayak. These transparent kayaks offer incredible views of seagrass beds, fish, rays, and other marine life as you glide through protected waters. Guided by knowledgeable local staff, clear kayak tours are ideal for guests who want a more immersive eco-tour experience.

Coastal Kayak Tours to Shell Key

Prefer a traditional kayak? Our coastal kayak tours to Shell Key use traditional sit-on-top kayaks that are stable, comfortable, and easy to maneuver. These tours focus on relaxed paddling, wildlife viewing, and time to explore Shell Key’s pristine shoreline for shelling and photos. These provide superior back support and comfort.

Wildlife You May See on a Shell Key Kayak Tour

Kayaking at Shell Key offers a quiet, low-impact way to observe Florida wildlife in its natural habitat. Guests on our guided kayak tours often see:
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  • Dolphins swimming nearby

  • Manatees during warmer months

  • Rays gliding along the sandy bottom

  • Shore birds such as pelicans, ospreys, and herons

  • Fish and marine life around seagrass beds

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​Because kayaking is silent and non-intrusive, wildlife encounters are often closer and more frequent than on motorized tours.

Small-Group Guided Kayak Tours with Local Experts

Island Ferry’s Shell Key kayak tours are conducted in small groups, allowing for a relaxed pace and personal attention from your guide. Our local guides provide instruction, share insight into the Shell Key ecosystem, and ensure everyone feels comfortable on the water.

These tours are beginner-friendly, making them perfect for first-time kayakers, families, couples, and anyone looking for a calm outdoor adventure in St. Petersburg.

Perfect for Nature Lovers and First-Time Kayakers

Island Ferry’s guided kayak tours to Shell Key are ideal for travelers looking to slow down and connect with nature. The calm waters, expert guidance, and small-group format make this tour accessible for all skill levels, while still offering rich wildlife encounters and scenic beauty, including the beloved bottlenose dolphin..

Whether you’re visiting St. Petersburg for the first time or returning to explore Shell Key again, kayaking is one of the most peaceful and memorable ways to experience the preserve.

Book Your Shell Key Kayak Tour Today

Spots on our clear and coastal kayak tours to Shell Key are limited due to small group sizes. Reserve your tour in advance to secure your preferred date and kayak type.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We also offer

Dolphin Cruises to Shell Key

Private Snorkeling Cruises to Egmont Key

Kayak Tour Details, Pricing, and Duration

  • Clear Kayak Tour: $64 per person | ~2.5–3 hours

  • Coastal Kayak Tour: $54 per person | ~2.5–3 hours

  • Group Size: Small groups for a personal experience

  • Departure Area: Near Tierra Verde / St. Pete Beach

  • Availability: Daily tours, weather & tides permitting

What’s Included with Your Kayak Tour

Tour Inclusions

  • Kayak, paddle, and life jacket

  • Guided instruction and safety briefing

  • Free parking at the launch location

  • Calm, protected paddling routes

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Guests MUST bring water. Also recommended are sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

TOUR CALENDAR

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Shell Key Kayak Tours

 

Do I need kayaking experience to join the tour?

No experience is required. Island Ferry’s guided kayak tours to Shell Key are beginner-friendly, and your guide provides instruction and a safety briefing before you head out. Calm, protected waters make these tours comfortable for first-time kayakers.

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What is the difference between clear kayaks and coastal kayaks?

Clear kayaks offer a transparent hull that allows you to see into the water below as you paddle over seagrass beds and marine life. Coastal kayaks are traditional sit-on-top kayaks that provide a classic paddling experience. Both options are stable and suitable for beginners. Full transparency: The Coastal kayaks offer far better back support and comfort than do the clear kayaks.

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How long are the Shell Key kayak tours?

Most Shell Key kayak tours last approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including paddling time and time to explore Shell Key Preserve.

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Where do the kayak tours depart from?

Kayak tours depart from a convenient launch location near Tierra Verde / St. Pete Beach. Exact meeting and parking details are provided after booking.

What wildlife might we see on a kayak tour?

Wildlife sightings vary by season but commonly include dolphins, manatees (in warmer months), rays, fish, and coastal birds such as pelicans, herons, and ospreys. Kayaking offers a quiet way to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

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Are children allowed on the kayak tours?

Yes. Children are welcome on our guided kayak tours, though age and size requirements may apply for safety reasons. Please contact Island Ferry if you have questions about bringing younger children.

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What should I bring on a Shell Key kayak tour?

We recommend bringing:

  • Sunscreen and a hat

  • Water to stay hydrated

  • Comfortable clothing that can get wet

  • Water shoes or sandals

  • A small dry bag for personal items

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Is Shell Key kayaking safe?

Yes. Island Ferry conducts kayak tours in calm, protected waters, and all guests are provided with life jackets. Guides remain with the group at all times and adjust routes based on weather and water conditions. There are NO alligators, and 99% of the tour is on less than 2 feet of water. 

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What happens if the weather is bad?

If a kayak tour is canceled due to unsafe weather conditions, guests will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

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How far in advance should I book a kayak tour?

Because group sizes are limited, we recommend booking in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons.

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