Comments on: Where to Launch a Kayak to Shell Key

By: Jack Coletti

Jack Coletti — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:26:42 +0000

In reply to Jason.

Hi Jason,

The best place to launch for a day trip is the Kayak Launch on the Pinellas Bayway. You can make the trip in under 30 minutes. I’ve never taken a paddleboard to the island, but I’ve seen plenty of them out there.

Hope this helps!

By: Jason

Jason — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 18:48:19 +0000

Hey how is the trip via paddle board vs kayak? And your recommendation on a launching point and estimated trip time. Was wanting to have a day trip there in middle of week. Thoughts and or recommendations? Thank you so much!!

By: Jack Coletti

Jack Coletti — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 20:44:52 +0000

In reply to Hannah.

Hi Hanna,

You might consider launching from the ‘Kayak Launch’ on the Pinellas Bayway. That way you avoid crossing the channel. Basically if you head west from the launch, you will pass several small islands before reaching Shell Key – which is distinguished by having a sandy beach shoreline. You can’t really go too far because then you would be in the gulf. There are some large rules signs on the island. Best bet is to study the google earth view thoroughly before heading out.

Hope this helps!

By: Hannah

Hannah — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 17:44:58 +0000

Hi Jack. We’re camping at fort de Soto this fall and want to paddle to shell key from there. Going from the boat ramp you listed, how would I know how to get to shell key, never having been there/knowing what it looks like? Are there signs, or will people at the campground be able to explain to me which way to go? Also, should I be nervous about crossing bunces channel?

By: Jack Coletti

Jack Coletti — Mon, 08 May 2023 16:52:18 +0000

In reply to Leah.

Hi Leah,

It really depends on the day, but generally, it’s perfectly safe to cross the Pass-a-grille channel in a kayak. Weekends will see more boat traffic and will call for a bit more caution. This area is not a no-wake zone, so some boats do come through at high speed. If you are concerned, you might mount a flag on your boat to be seen better. The current should not be an issue in a Kayak.

Hope this helps!

By: Leah

Leah — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 18:22:07 +0000

Hi,
I’m wondering how “safe” it is kayaking across the Pass-a-Grille North Channel. Is the boat traffic concerning? Are there speed limits in that area? Can the current in the channel be rather strong during certain tides?
Thanks for all the information!

By: JB

JB — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:14:20 +0000

In reply to Jack Coletti. Awesome! Thank you so much. The site and information is most appreciated!

By: Jack Coletti

Jack Coletti — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 14:53:22 +0000

In reply to JB.

Hi JB,

Indeed, Shell Key has copious Shells and Shark’s teeth at this time of year (fall/winter).

Hope this helps!

By: JB

JB — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:04:59 +0000

In reply to Meghan. Agreed! My fiancé has been talking about bringing our SUPs down from Tennessee and finding an island for primitive camping. I’m more of a planner so it’s great to find a place that has excellent info! Is Shell Key actually great for shelling? Shark teeth??

By: Jack Coletti

Jack Coletti — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 18:09:45 +0000

In reply to Marilyn.

Hi Marilyn,

Sorry, we only watch over the website and don’t do any tours ourselves. There are a number of Kayak rentals that are just across the channel from Shell Key at Ft. Desoto Park and on the Bayway. The trip across would take under 30 minutes.

Hope this helps!