Discover Shell Key Preserve
Located just south of Tierra Verde on the western edge of Tampa Bay, Shell Key Preserve is a hidden gem that can only be reached by boat — which keeps it pristine, quiet, and teeming with natural beauty. Nestled within protected waters, this barrier island remains one of Florida’s most unspoiled coastal sanctuaries.
Water & Weather
- Spring (March–May): 75–83 °F – Warm, perfect for swimming and shelling.
- Summer (June–August): 84–90 °F – Peak beach season; water feels like a tropical pool.
- Fall (September–November): 78–84 °F – Still warm with fewer crowds.
- Winter (December–February): 65–72 °F – Mild and pleasant for kayaking or a breezy beach walk.
A Sheller’s Paradise
Shell Key Preserve is well known among beachcombers for its wide variety of seashells. Visitors often find conchs, sand dollars, and smaller treasures carried in by the Gulf currents. Each trip offers something different, making it a favorite stop for shelling enthusiasts.
Nature & Wildlife
- Part of a protected marine preserve — helping safeguard wildlife and natural habitats.
- Home to nesting shorebirds and seabirds.
- Frequent sightings of dolphins and manatees in nearby waters.
- Sea turtles often nest along the shoreline during the summer months.
- Shifting sandbars and tidal pools add to the preserve’s natural beauty.
