Keewaydin Island, Florida, is a pristine, unspoiled paradise that lies between Naples and Marco Island. Known for its secluded beaches and rich wildlife, this barrier island offers a peaceful retreat from the crowded tourist spots of Southwest Florida. When we visit Marco Island, Florida, a trip to Keewaydin is my favorite day trip. The shelling here is fantastic. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Keewaydin Island, including how to get to Keewaydin Island from Marco Island and Naples, the best ways to navigate with a Keewaydin Island Florida map, and the convenience of the Keewaydin Island Florida ferry.
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Why Visit Keewaydin Island, Florida?
Keewaydin Island, Florida, is a natural wonder that’s part of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. With over eight miles of untouched white sandy beaches, this island is a haven for nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape. The island is home to various wildlife species, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and dolphins, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife observation and photography. I love walking the beaches of Keewaydin in search of shells. Shelling is fantastic on Keewaydin and I find the most unique and bigger shells here.
How to Get to Keewaydin Island from Marco Island
If you’re staying in Marco Island, you’re just a short boat ride away from Keewaydin Island. How to get to Keewaydin Island from Marco Island is a common question for visitors eager to explore this hidden gem. The best way to reach the island is by renting a boat or taking a private charter from Marco Island Marina. The journey offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and takes about 30 minutes, depending on your boat’s speed. We rented a pontoon and loved our boat ride to Keewaydin. We saw many dolphins on the journey and used our pontoon for a leisurely ride through Marco Island canals.
Where Can I Rent a Boat on Marco Island?
Here are some options:
For those who prefer not to rent a boat, there are guided tours available that depart from Marco Island. These tours often include stops for shelling and dolphin watching, adding extra value to your trip. The tour below departs from the Isle of Capri, which is the small town directly north of Marco Island.
How to Get to Keewaydin Island from Naples
Visitors in Naples will find the island equally accessible. Wondering how to get to Keewaydin Island from Naples? The process is similar to that from Marco Island. You can rent a boat or join a guided tour. The boat ride is a bit longer, usually taking around 45 minutes to an hour, but it offers beautiful views of Naples Bay and the surrounding waters. There is also a water shuttle, which you will find more info about in the next section.
Dolphin Cove Marina has a great map of boating around Marco Island and maps out how to get to Keewaydin from Marco Island and Naples.
Keewaydin Island Florida Ferry
For those without access to a boat, the Keewaydin Island Florida water shuttle is a convenient alternative. Shuttle services operate from both Naples and Marco Island, offering regular trips to and from the island. The ferry ride is a relaxing way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation. Be sure to check the shuttle schedule in advance, as services may vary depending on the season. Here are two options for a water shuttle to Keewaydin Island
- Keewaydin Water Shuttle – From Naples, Florida
- Hemingway Water Shuttle – From Marco Island, Florida
Navigating to Keewaydin Island, Florida Map
A map is helpful when trying to figure out the best routes to take to Keewaydin Island Florida, especially if you’re renting a boat and navigating the journey on your own. Here is a map detailing the best routes to take to Keewaydin Island from Marco Island. Last trip we took to Keewaydin Island, we rented a pontoon from Isles of Capri Marina, as that is where we were staying. Our rental home had a wonderful dock where we could park the pontoon.
Activities on Keewaydin Island
Keewaydin Island, Florida, offers a variety of activities for visitors. Whether you’re interested in swimming, shelling, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone. Since the island has no amenities, it’s important to bring everything you’ll need for the day, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and beach gear.
If you enjoy casting from the shore, don’t forget your fishing pole, tackle and bait if you like using it. My son spent a long time shore fishing here.
As mentioned before, the shelling is fantastic on Keewaydin. Walk the shoreline and be on the hunt for unique and beautiful shells.
It’s great to have shelling tools along to help dig out shells.
If you’re hungry, you might get lucky and have a food boat parked during your Keewaydin trip! You heard that right, at times, a boat with food and beverage parks along the shores of Keewaydin ready to feed you freshly prepared food like burgers. Does it get any better than that? Check out Just Beachy Burgers on Facebook to learn more about when they head out to Keewaydin.
Conclusion
Keewaydin Island, Florida, is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and tranquil beach experience. With its untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a perfect escape from the busy tourist areas of Southwest Florida. Whether you’re arriving by boat, ferry, or a guided tour, make sure to bring along a Keewaydin Island Florida map to explore the island’s hidden treasures. Whether you’re traveling from Marco Island or Naples, this slice of paradise is well worth the journey.
