Left Arrow
Right Arrow
Rating Star

5 (300)

Location Icon St Petersburg

Shell Key Ferry: Ft. DeSoto's Island Getaway

Clock

20

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Shell Key Ferry from Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp in Tierra Verde, FL, offers a unique escape to an untouched paradise. This ferry trip transports families to Shell Key, a beautiful, uninhabited barrier island known for its white sand beaches and clear, warm waters, perfect for shelling.

The 20-minute ferry ride from the historic Fort De Soto boat ramp, once a military outpost during the Spanish-American War and now Pinellas County's largest park, offers chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. Shell Key boasts a large nature preserve, providing a sanctuary for native seabirds. For those seeking an adventurous overnight experience, camping is allowed with a camper ferry ticket and a Pinellas County camping permit.

This unforgettable experience ensures a day of sun-soaked fun or a night under the stars. Restrooms are available on board for convenience. Please note that gratuities and parking fees are not included. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Escape to a Secluded Island: Discover Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island with pristine white sand.

Highlight Icon

Spot Amazing Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees during the ferry ride.

Highlight Icon

Enjoy Beach Fun and Shelling: Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and collecting beautiful shells.

Highlight Icon

Camp Under the Stars: Experience an unforgettable overnight camping trip on a secluded island (permit required).

Sentiment Analysis

Quotes Logo

Customers generally enjoy the Shell Key Ferry for its beautiful scenery, wildlife sightings, and shelling opportunities. Reviewers recommend bringing everything needed for a day at the beach. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved seeing dolphins and other wildlife during the ferry ride.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many found the island beautiful and enjoyed shelling.

    Positive Highlight Icon Families appreciated the easy access to a secluded beach.

    Positive Highlight Icon Some reviewers enjoyed the overnight camping option

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some reviewers mention that the ferry can be crowded

    Negative Highlight Icon Some reviewers mention that the island can be hot

The Journey

1

Fort De Soto Boat Ramp

The starting point of the tour, located within Fort De Soto, Pinellas County's largest park and a historic military outpost from the Spanish American War era. It provides access to the ferry that travels to Shell Key.

2

Shell Key

An uninhabited barrier island with white sand, warm waters, and abundant shelling opportunities. It also features a nature preserve for native seabirds, offering a unique experience for nature lovers and campers.

3

Fort De Soto

A historic military outpost constructed during the Spanish American War. Today, it is a listed in the 'National Register of Historic Places' and Pinellas County's largest park.

Know Before You Go

This experience includes access to a restroom on board the ferry. It excludes gratuities for the crew and parking fees at the Fort De Soto boat ramp. Meet directly at the Fort De Soto boat ramp to board the ferry for a scenic ride to Shell Key.

Hot Tip

Many reviewers suggest bringing your own beach umbrella or sun shelter, as there is little shade on Shell Key. Also, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the island.

From $40 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.