5 Highest-Rated Marco Island Shell Tours In 2024!

Are you a seashell lover looking for your next adventure? Look no further than Marco Island, Florida!

A barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. 

I’ve vetted the best Marco Island shell tours that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the island’s ecosystem as you visit remote barrier islands. 

Let’s explore some of the best Marco Island Shell Tours on our list, which includes several private tours.

Our Top 3 Picks: Marco Island Shell Tours!

Best Marco Island Shell Tours!

1. 4-Hour Private Shelling Tour

Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️    Length: 4 Hours      Check Rates Here

Join an unforgettable experience and set sail to the untouched beauty of the 10,000 Islands on an exclusive 4-Hour Private Shelling Tour. 

This guided shelling tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the best spots and remote beaches to uncover a treasure trove of beautiful seashells. 

The boat accommodates up to 6 guests – it’s the perfect size for a small group family-friendly excursion. 

Departing from Goodland Boat Park, this excellent tour navigates the stunning waters, taking advantage of the lowest tides of the day to maximize your chances of finding an abundance of sea shells in shallow water. 

It’s an incredible experience that combines exploration, relaxation, and the thrill of discovering nature’s hidden treasures.

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

“There are not enough words to describe the great experience that we had on this tour! Captain Jason and Cristina were fabulous, taking the time to walk with us and explain much about the area and shells we were finding. We found more than our share of beautiful shells to take home with us and highly recommend that you take a tour with them; you will not regret it!”

Kimberly P. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

✅ What’s included in this tour: 

• Bottled Water

2. Private Shelling And Dolphin Exursion

Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐     Length: 2.5 Hours      Check Rates Here

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida’s shell collector’s paradise with the Marco Island Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion. 

This relaxed tour takes you on a boat ride to the secluded areas off Marco Island, where you’ll walk along pristine white sands searching for remarkable shells. 

As you sail, watch for playful dolphins frolicking in the waves. 

Perfect for families seeking a fun and private activity, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore remote islands, witness the beauty of large mangrove forests, and learn about the fascinating ecosystem and history of the area. 

Get ready to bask under the sun in the great state of Florida and create treasured memories during this captivating shelling and dolphin encounter.

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

“We had a wonderful time with Captain Tyler. The boat was extremely comfortable and spotless!.. We stopped at an uninhabited island for shells and collected more than we could take home!.. The weather was perfect for finding dolphins! The trip’s highlight was having the dolphins swim in the wake of the boat and perform jumps for us! All captured on video, of course!”

Deb_G. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

✅ What’s included in this tour:

• Bottled water

• Cooler filled with ice

• Buckets and bags for your shells

Book this Private Shelling And Dolphin Excursion

3. Private Shelling And Eco Tour By Boat

Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐     Length: 2.5 Hours      Check Rates Here

Join a Private Shelling and Eco Tour by Boat and leave behind the hustle and bustle of busy beaches. 

Delve into the pristine beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands, a diverse and captivating ecosystem. 

This 2.5-hour private tour offers an exclusive experience for families, allowing you to witness the wonders of local wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and various resident and migratory birds. 

Explore a secluded barrier island, collecting seashells and other treasures of the sea. 

Throughout the journey, the experienced captain will guide you through the world’s second-largest mangrove forest in the United States, offering an immersive and enchanting encounter with nature.

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

“Captain Orion was amazing! He was very knowledgeable and ensured our family would have a memorable trip across Marco Bay. We have been on several eco-tours, but he made this the best ever! We got a phenomenal up-close look at the dolphins as they frolicked in the boat wake.”

Richard_B. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

✅ What’s included in this tour:

• Bottled water

• Cooler filled with ice

• Buckets and bags for collecting shells

4. Shelling Tours – Fort Myers / Naples

Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐     Length: 2 Hours      Check Rates Here

Embark on a fun and exciting shelling excursion from Fort Myers Beach to explore the beautiful islands known for their exceptional selection of seashells. 

You’ll sail to Big Hickory Island, Lovers Key State Park, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, and Keewaydin Island with a dedicated captain. 

Enjoy the convenience of traveling by boat and be amazed by the breathtaking coastal scenery. 

Whether searching for shells, snorkeling with provided gear, or simply relaxing on the beach, this personalized and informative tour guarantees a memorable experience. 

Keep an eye out for playful dolphins and gentle manatees that might even join you on your journey. 

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

“Great experience. Mike took us to amazing locations. He took the time to go after a dolphin and a manatee with us so the kids could see them. The shelling beaches were incredible… We wanted a private experience, and that’s exactly what we got. Nice touch with a cooler with cold water on the boat… I’d definitely do it again; it’s totally worth it!”

Rosane_C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

✅ What’s included in this tour:

• Bottled water

5. 3-Hour Private Dolphin And Shelling Tour

Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐     Length: 3 Hours      Check Rates Here

Embark on the ultimate adventure for families, kids, and nature lovers in the Ten Thousand Islands of Southern Florida! 

Join a 3-hour Dolphin and Shelling private boat tour, where you’ll experience the breathtaking beauty of nature at its finest. 

Led by a knowledgeable Master Naturalist Captain, this tour offers an up-close encounter with playful and majestic dolphins in their natural habitat. 

Witness their fascinating behaviors as they swim, interact, and feed. 

As you cruise through the pristine waters, watch for various shore nesting and wading birds and other native marine species. 

Indulge in the joy of beachcombing on secluded shores, hunting for beautiful seashells as cherished souvenirs. 

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

“Jason was awesome!!! A great time was had by the whole family! Would highly recommend it! Nice experience! Loved the dolphins!”

Cheryl_H. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

✅ What’s included in this tour:

• Bottled water

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go Shelling On Marco Island?

While you can find shells throughout the year, different seasons bring different types of shells.

During winter, you might discover snowbirds looking for Junonia and cone shells.

In contrast, the summer months often attract families with children, indicating a possible change in the types of shells found.

The exact timing and location for finding the best shells can vary depending on various factors, including the weather and the tide.

It’s always a good idea to check the local tide charts and weather conditions before planning your shelling expedition.

Can You Take Shells From Marco Island?

You can collect shells from Marco Island but with some restrictions.

It is legal to pick up and take home shells, provided they do not contain any living creatures inside them.

It’s illegal to remove or cause harm to live shells on Marco Island.

Therefore, before you add a shell to your collection, inspect it carefully to ensure it has no inhabitants.

Participating in an organized shelling tour can be a good idea as they can responsibly guide you in collecting shells. 

What Are The Best Shells On Marco Island?

Marco Island and surrounding areas are renowned for shelling opportunities.

Some of the best shells you can find on Marco Island include Conch, Scallop, Murex, Worm Snail, and Angel Wing shells. 

Popular varieties include Sand Dollars, Lightning Whelks, Alphabet Cone, and Olives.

Treasure seekers will find plenty of shell varieties on Marco Island.

What Island Has The Best Shelling Near Marco Island?

Sanibel Island is often touted as one of the best shelling islands near Marco Island.

It is located on Florida’s west coast north of Marco Island and is famous for its abundance of shells.

The island’s unique east-west orientation acts as a scoop for seashells to wash onto its shores.

Keewaydin Island is another great spot for shelling and is located just north of Marco Island. It’s an 8-mile-long barrier island that’s only accessible by boat.

The island’s isolation and beautiful beaches make it a prime location for shelling.

Tigertail Beach on Marco Island is well-known for its great shelling opportunities.

The beach’s lagoon is among the best places to find various shells.

Final Thoughts – Marco Island Shell Tours

In conclusion, Marco Island boat tours offer seashell lovers a unique experience.

The beautiful island and surrounding areas provide an excellent opportunity to observe individual and unique shells.

Shelling trips are a great way to explore a secluded beach and enjoy an educational experience.

But wait, there are more Florida adventures to enjoy!

Aside from shell tours, Marco Island also offers a variety of other activities, such as dolphin watching, looking for sea turtles, enjoying fishing charters, and participating in water sports.

You can make a whole day by visiting this beautiful island.

After your shelling and exploration adventure, you can indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants after a day of shell hunting.

From fresh catches to old favorites, Marco Island has it all. Make your plans to visit South Florida for your next exciting adventure.

Booking a last-minute trip to Marco Island?  

If so, we have you covered.  

Top Tours in Marco Island  – Viator

Top Rated Hotels & Accommodations – Booking.com

Looking To Get Around In Marco Island? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗