Boating at Shell Key is carefully regulated to protect sea beds and marine estuaries. Please observe all posted boundaries and speed limits...

Before you go:
The north and south ends of the island are divided by several navigational barriers. Consider your route carefully, based on which side of the island you plan to visit. Examine the other navigational maps on this page to avoid shallow areas where you can run aground.

Remember, alcohol and pets are not allowed - even on your boat as long as you are within the boundaries of the entire preserve.

Check the tide predictions for the date and time you intend to visit. Low tides can make some areas more difficult to access and can expose other navigational hazards. See the diagrams below for details.

Getting to the
North Public Use Area:
The north public use area can be accessed directly from the Pass-a-Grille Channel. There is also a narrow channel allowing passage to the inside of the north end.

Getting From the North end to the South End:
Warning!! There are many ways to run aground while traveling from the north end to the south end. Essentially, you have 2 choices. Either travel out of Pass-a-grille Pass into the gulf and return into Bunces Pass on the South - or you can come from the Skyway Bridge Channel in Tampa Bay. Never try to travel south on the east side of Tierra Verde - these waters are not passable!

Notice that both Pass-a-grille and Bunces Pass have sand bars flanking them along their channels. The bars extend extend well out into the gulf and are a major navigation hazard. when navigating in our out of the pass. See the green lines below for the best route. Always use a depth finder.

From Fort Desoto Boat Docks - or the Skyway Bridge Channel:
If you are coming from the Skyway in Tampa Bay, you will travel west until you pass under the Bridge that leads to Ft. Desoto beach - and then go right by the boat docks on your way toward Shell Key (see image above).

This easiest way to get to the south end is to put in at Ft. Desoto - where you will find the best maintained boat ramps in the county. Then follow the channel markers west toward the mouth of Bunces Pass. Be aware that the green markers on the north side of bunces pass channel are very close to shallow waters.