Paddle Marco

Kayak Shelling on Marco Island

UPDATE: Hurricane Ian damaged Caxambas Park and the county has closed the park until 2025 to commercial operators like us. If you want to go shelling, you can still enter the park as a private / recreational user and we can put the kayak(s) on or in your vehicle in a safe fashion. Don't want to put the kayaks in your car or have too many people to do that? Then don't worry, our Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tours & Rentals are fully operational at our other location at Paddlecraft Park. Come have an awesome time - Call today or book online, we sell out quick! (239) 777-5423

Prepare to be Shell-Shocked! Get off the beaten path and kayak into the gateway to the 10,000 islands on the southern tip of Marco Island where you can get out and explore 6-7 deserted sand bars and go shelling! These sand bars and barrier islands are accessible by kayak and they are loaded with sea shells! All of the islands can be reached within a 10-20 minute paddle from our launch location. While you're kayaking and hopping around from island to island like you're on an easter egg hunt, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, birds and more. ...What's included? A kayak with storage, paddle, waterproof bag, life vest, a laminated map of all the sand bars and a laminated printout of the collectable shells found in the area. Why pay hundreds of dollars to take a guided boat tour when you can rent a kayak and paddle to the same island in 10 minutes!? Read more below or call us today! (239) 777-5423

Kayak Shelling on Marco Island




Single Kayak or Paddleboard Rental
2 Hours:
3 Hours:
All Day:
$40.00
$45.00
$50.00
Includes life vest, laminated map and waterproof bag.

2-Seater Kayak Rental
2 Hours:
3 Hours:
All Day:
$50.00
$55.00
$60.00
Includes life vest, laminated map and waterproof bag.

Some of the shells commonly found near Caxambas Pass include the massive horse conch, lightning whelk, sand dollars, scotch bonnet and if you're lucky... a junonia... the holy grail of shells! Most of these shells are just a 10-15 minute paddle from where we launch our kayaks and Caxambas Park & Marina. Aside from the sand bars near the launch, you may also want to explore the nearby barrier islands called Dickman's Point and Kice Island. We recommend to go shelling at low tide so that the sand bars and islands are fully exposed and those deep-down hard to find shells are easier to spot. Please check out the Caxambas Pass tide chart or give us a call and we'll let you know when the best time to go shelling is. But don't worry, the sand bars are still exposed at high tide too.

Remember to bring: Sun protection, drinking water and a bag for your shells. Live shelling is strictly prohibited. We have mesh draw-string shell bags available for $5.00

Our kayak and paddleboard shelling rentals launch from Caxambas Park and Marina - located at 909 Collier Ct, Marco Island, FL 34145. Reservations Required! Our kayak rentals do sell out fast, so book early! Call: (239) 777-5423. All of our kayaks have high-back seats, cup holders and storage.

More pictures on our Instagram & Facebook.

Paddle Marco TripAdvisor

Paddle Marco Google

Marco Island Shelling