Have you ever wondered what treasures lie beneath the glistening waves of Fort Myers Beach and Naples? Shelling tours offer the perfect opportunity to explore the stunning coastline and discover the hidden gems that wash ashore.
With an experienced captain at the helm, these tours provide an exciting adventure for sea shell enthusiasts. But there’s more to these tours than just collecting shells – read on to uncover the secrets of these captivating excursions and why they are a must for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
Good To Know

- Shelling excursions to Big Hickory Island are available from Fort Myers Beach and Naples.
- The best time to go shelling is during low tide when more shells are exposed on the beach.
- It is recommended to bring a mesh bag or bucket to collect shells and wear water shoes for protection.
- In case of tour cancellation or unsuitable weather conditions, alternative activities are available in Fort Myers Beach and Naples.
Shelling Excursion Details
Set out on a shelling excursion to Big Hickory Island from either Fort Myers Beach or Naples, where you can join a dedicated captain and sail to the island known for its exceptional selection of seashells.
The best time to go shelling is during low tide when more shells are exposed on the beach. As for shelling tips, it’s recommended to bring a mesh bag or bucket to collect shells, wear water shoes to protect your feet, and bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
The excursion allows you to spend time on the island searching for shells, snorkeling with provided gear, or simply relaxing on the beach. The sail to the island also offers breathtaking coastal scenery.
Choose from several tour times to fit your schedule and make the most of your shelling adventure.
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Inclusions and Meeting Points

Where are the meeting points for the shelling excursion?
The meeting points for the shelling excursion are provided options, either from Fort Myers Beach or Naples.
The tour includes bottled water for participants.
After the tour, the activity ends back at the meeting point.
It’s important to note that a full refund is available if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
However, there will be no refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time.
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be accepted.
It’s also important to consider that the tour timing is based on the local time of the experience.
Plus, snorkeling equipment is provided for those who wish to snorkel during the excursion.
Tour Cancellation and Refund Policy

The tour cancellation and refund policy for the shelling excursion is as follows:
Full refund available if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The cancellation must be made before the start time of the tour.
No refund will be provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time of the tour.
Changes to the tour, including rescheduling, can’t be made less than 24 hours before the start time and won’t be accepted.
In case of poor weather conditions, the tour may be rescheduled to a different date or a full refund will be offered. The decision will be made based on ensuring customer satisfaction and safety.
The tour operator understands that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and they strive to accommodate their customers while also ensuring the smooth operation of the tour.
Weather Conditions and Alternative Options

If the weather conditions are not suitable for the shelling excursion, the tour operator will offer alternative options such as rescheduling the tour to a different date or providing a full refund. This ensures that customers have flexibility and are not disappointed by unfavorable weather conditions. Along With shelling, there are also alternative activities that can be enjoyed in Fort Myers Beach and Naples. The table below provides a list of alternative activities that visitors can consider if the shelling excursion is not possible due to weather conditions:
| Alternative Activities |
|---|
| Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates |
| Explore the Naples Botanical Garden |
| Take a boat tour of the Ten Thousand Islands |
| Visit the Naples Zoo |
These activities offer a variety of experiences, from historical sites to natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Visitors can still make the most of their time in the area, even if the shelling excursion needs to be rescheduled or refunded due to weather conditions.
Traveler Photos and Reviews

After embarking on the shelling excursion, travelers have the opportunity to share their experiences through photos and reviews. Here is a glimpse of what some travelers had to say about their shelling tour experiences:
Top rated shelling spots: Many reviewers praised the captain for taking them to top rated shelling spots on Big Hickory Island. They mentioned finding a wide variety of seashells, including beautiful and rare ones.
Knowledgeable captain: Travelers appreciated the expertise and knowledge of the captain. They mentioned learning about different types of shells and marine life during the tour, adding to their overall experience.
Stunning coastal scenery: The sail to the island offered breathtaking coastal scenery, according to several reviews. Travelers enjoyed the picturesque views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Excellent customer service: Many reviewers highlighted the excellent customer service provided by the tour operators. They mentioned the friendly and accommodating staff, making their shelling excursion a memorable one.
Additional Information

Continuing the discussion on the shelling excursion, travelers can find additional information about the tour’s logistics and requirements.
For those planning to embark on the shelling tour, here are a few helpful tips to enhance the experience. Firstly, it’s recommended to bring a mesh bag or bucket to collect the seashells found on the island. This will ensure that the shells are kept safe and intact throughout the journey.
Plus, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes that can withstand walking on uneven surfaces, as well as a hat and sunscreen to protect from the sun’s rays.
As for the best time for shelling, it’s generally recommended to go during low tide, as this is when more seashells are exposed on the beach.
Note

Please take note of the following information regarding the shelling excursion:
How to find the best seashells on Big Hickory Island:
When searching for seashells, it’s best to explore the shoreline where the waves break. This is where you’re likely to find a variety of shells washed up by the tide. Look for areas with seaweed or debris, as these can be great spots to find hidden treasures.Tips for a successful shelling excursion:
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes that can get wet, as you may need to wade through shallow water to reach certain areas. Bring a mesh bag or bucket to collect your shells, as well as sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Remember to respect the environment and only take empty shells, leaving live animals and sand dollars in their natural habitat.Remember to check the weather forecast before your excursion:
Shelling is best done during low tide, so plan your trip accordingly. If the weather is poor, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded.Lastly, be patient and persistent:
Shelling is a popular activity, so competition for the best shells can be high. Take your time, explore different areas, and enjoy the experience of discovering unique seashells on the beautiful shores of Big Hickory Island.
Common Questions

How Long Does the Shelling Excursion to Big Hickory Island Typically Last?
A shelling excursion to Big Hickory Island typically lasts a few hours. It’s recommended to go during low tide for the best shelling opportunities. Visitors can learn shelling techniques and enjoy the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Shelling Tour?
Yes, there are age restrictions for the shelling tour. The duration of the shelling excursion to Big Hickory Island typically lasts for a few hours, allowing participants of all ages to enjoy the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Provided?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear or choose to rent it. Both options are available for the shelling tour.
Is There a Restroom on the Boat or on the Island?
Restroom availability on the boat or island is not mentioned in the content. It is recommended to contact the tour provider for information on restroom facilities or alternative bathroom options during the shelling excursion.
What Type of Seashells Can Typically Be Found on Big Hickory Island?
On Big Hickory Island, a variety of seashells can typically be found, including conch shells, sand dollars, and whelks. The best times of year for shelling on the island are during low tide and after storms.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the shelling tours in Fort Myers Beach and Naples offer an exciting adventure for sea shell enthusiasts. With a dedicated captain leading the way, participants can experience the beauty of Big Hickory Island and its incredible seashell selection.
Whether searching for shells, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach, this tour ensures convenience and a memorable experience for all ages. With excellent ratings and reviews, it’s a must-do activity for those visiting the area.
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