The island is about 2.5 miles long and has about 180 acres of dry land. However the entire preserve covers over 1700 acres, including Shell Key, some smaller islands, and many acres of shallow water grass flats and mangroves. Significant sections of the island are off-limits to humans because they are a wildlife preserve.
Shell Key is popular with boaters, nature lovers, kayakers, snorkelers, shellers, fishermen, campers, and astronomers, who take advantage of the dark nights on the island without lights.
Go during the week if you prefer a quiet experience. Weekends bring lots of recreational boaters that converge on the island to party.
The island is about 2.5 miles long and has about 180 acres of dry land. However the entire preserve covers over 1700 acres, including Shell Key, some smaller islands, and many acres of shallow water grass flats and mangroves. Significant sections of the island are off-limits to humans because they are a wildlife preserve.
