Shell Key Ferry: Ft. DeSoto's Island Getaway
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Overview
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.



Highlights
Escape to a Secluded Island: Discover Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island with pristine white sand.
Spot Amazing Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees during the ferry ride.
Enjoy Beach Fun and Shelling: Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and collecting beautiful shells.
Camp Under the Stars: Experience an unforgettable overnight camping trip on a secluded island (permit required).
Sentiment Analysis
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.

Customers loved seeing dolphins and other wildlife during the ferry ride.
Many found the island beautiful and enjoyed shelling.
Families appreciated the easy access to a secluded beach.
Some reviewers enjoyed the overnight camping option
Some reviewers mention that the ferry can be crowded
Some reviewers mention that the island can be hot
The Journey
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.
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.
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.