Shell Key Tour: Discover Unique Shells

Uncover hidden treasures on Shell Key’s shores. Join our guided tour to explore unique shells and learn about the vibrant ecosystem.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Shell Key Preserve - The guide will welcome participants at the designated meeting point, providing dry bags if necessary, and offering a brief paddle talk to cover instructions and tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience. The journey will then proceed through the tranquil waters of Shell Key Preserve, with opportunities to spot dolphins, rays,…
What's Included
  • Kayak and paddle
  • Life jacket
  • Drybag
What's Not Included
  • Bottled water
Additional Information

Embark on a captivating 2.5-3 hour guided shelling tour along the breathtaking shores of Shell Key. As you wander the coastline or snorkel in the inviting shallows, uncover exquisite and rare shells. With the guidance of an expert, discover hidden treasures and gain insights into the local ecosystem. Perfect for families, beach enthusiasts, and anyone…

Location
2822 Pinellas Bayway S
Pinellas Bayway South
If you go through a toll, you’ve gone too far! When you arrive at the address, park anywhere in the grass parking lot, just don't park on the sidewalk! You will see kayak trailers. Depending on the GPS you use, you may see the kayak launch named “Catsperr Hole” or “Butler Hole”.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(17 Ratings)
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Laurie_c
Apr 2, 2026
Best shelling experience. - That if you have never kayak before the water can be a little hard to paddle with the wind. It's not like going down a river.
Review provided by Viator
Its_just_me_yuhoo
Mar 21, 2026
Great afternoon on the Gulf Coast - Local Tide Tours was very professional. It was easy to book online. When I called with questions, I spoke directly with the guide. Taylor was very upfront about weather conditions and very courteous with requests. While on the tour, Taylor explained the history of the area and included great detail about the mangroves, wildlife, and sea creatures. Our group consisted of teenagers, a college student, and middle-aged women, and the pace was perfect. This kayaking and shell collecting experience was a highlight of our Florida trip! I would definitely recommend Taylor and Local Tide Tours!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ashley
Mar 8, 2026
Great way to spend an afternoon! - This trip was so much fun! Taylor was an excellent t guide and the spot that she took us was breathtaking! I love the mangroves as well-nature at its best.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Connector774852
Mar 6, 2026
Shelltastic Tour…. - This was an awesome experience made special by Taylor’s knowledge and professionalism. I would highly recommend any of her tours. We will come again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joshfa3663xz
Jan 22, 2026
Local tide tours- highly recommend!! - We had an incredible experience with Local Tides! Our tour guide, Taylor, took us shelling at shell keys and kayaking through the mangroves and was extremely knowledgeable. I learned so many new things along the way, and the whole experience was both fun and educational. Highly recommend Local Tides for an unforgettable adventure!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
496shanaj
Jan 22, 2026
10/10 Recommend Taylor- Local Tide - Our Shell Key tour was unforgettable thanks to our guide, Taylor, who was fun, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful in finding beautiful shells! It was so nice to have a tour guide who is quick with facts and always on the lookout for cool things to show! Such a unique, hands-on, and memorable adventure—highly recommend! I plan to return soon for my 3rd tour soon!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D6916lfsteve
Jan 5, 2026
An enjoyable day on the water - Taylor was great. She made a beautiful day on the water a very enjoyable time for all. She obviously loves kayaking and adjusted the tour route to fit our group. We highly recommend her.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Steve_c
Jan 4, 2026
Taylor was great. Beautiful Day on the Water. - Our guide Taylor, was great. She is a happy, attentive guide who obviously enjoys kayaking and ensuring our group enjoyed our day.
Review provided by Viator
Maribeth_r
Jan 1, 2026
Great experience for our... - Great experience for our family of (5) - we have (3) teenagers who all had a great time kayaking, exploring, and shelling.
Review provided by Viator
Jasonv123
Dec 30, 2025
Great views - Taylor was a great knowledgeable guide. Very glad we went had an awesome time !!! We even had a visitor on our paddle out to the island that followed us eating the little fish we stirred up with our paddles From the dock to the island.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $65
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).