The Shell Key ferry costs $20 per adult for a round trip ride and $10 for kids 11 and under.

Yes! As a matter of fact, Shell Key offers some of the best shelling in Pinellas County. Feel free to roam the beach and collect shells to take home. Just make sure there are no living creatures making their home inside the shell!

Due to the popularity of the ferry, reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot on the boat. Reservations can be made by booking online <<HERE>> or by calling (727) 398-6577 prior to the day of sailing, or even earlier. You can still get on the ferry without a reservation, but we cannot guarantee an open spot on the boat!

We can take up to 49 people on each trip to Shell Key.

If you cancel your Shell Key ferry trip with 24 hours or more before departure, there is no charge. If you cancel in 24 hour notification or less, there is a $10 fee per seat.

The Shell Key ferry departs from the boat ramp on Fort De Soto NOT Hubbard’s Marina. Once you drive onto Fort Desoto, take your first right, ​follow signs for the shell key ferry, ​park nearest to the boat ramps, and look for the green ferry boat!

Due to connectivity issues on the island and inside Fort Desoto park, Cash is the preferred method of payment. Cards are accepted, we just ask you to arrive a bit earlier and be patient while we process credit card transactions.

Whether or not you have a reservation, we recommend you show up at least  45 minutes early for your intended departure time. An hour early is recommended if you don’t already have a reservation.

Pets are prohibited on Shell Key due to it’s status as a protected wildlife preserve. The island is home to native seabirds, and a large swath of the island is blocked from even our human guests to visit. This section of undisturbed beach allows nesting birds a quiet and safe place to nest, free of large predators.

Pack like you are spending the day at the beach and bring sunscreen, towels, bathing suits, sun protective hats, shirts, and other beach/sun gear.