Keewaydin Island Complete Local Guide: Things To Do & More!

Have you heard about Keewaydin Island?

As a Bonita Springs local, we’ve had the privilege of exploring this hidden gem firsthand. Just a short boat ride away, it offers a serene escape filled with natural beauty and coastal charm.

We’ve strolled along the island’s white sand beaches and uncovered its many hidden treasures. If you’re a fan of shelling, Keewaydin Island (also known as Key Island) is a must-visit destination.

2025 spelled out using seashells on the beach.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Southwest Florida or a local looking for a new adventure like us, we’re excited to share our insights and tips to help you make the most of your trip to this natural retreat.

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Keewaydin Island Overview

Where is Keewaydin Island? It is a remote barrier island located between Naples and Marco Island in the Gulf of America. This undeveloped paradise stretches eight miles long and half-a-mile wide. It is part of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Ten Thousand Islands. Together, these areas form a vital piece of Southwest Florida’s protected ecosystem.

Accessible only by boat, Keewaydin Island has no paved roads, bridges, running water or electricity. Its northern tip features a few private residences, but trespassing is strictly prohibited. If you are looking to escape into nature, then Keewaydin Island is worth a visit!

Beaches Open to the Public

The entire beach along the Gulf of America and intercoastal known as Rookery Bay Trail is open to the public.  This area has stunning views, soft white sands, and some of the best shelling opportunities in the region. We found that the southern tip of the island, closest to Marco Island, is the most popular area for boaters and beachgoers.

Driftwood tree branch decorated with seashells on the beach in front of the Gulf of Mexico.

Abundant Wildlife

Keewaydin Island is home to a wide range of wildlife, from ospreys, herons, and egrets to nesting loggerhead and gopher turtles during the summer months. Rare species such as White-Tailed Key Deer inhabit the island, and visitors have occasionally spotted bobcats, black bears, pigs, wild hogs, racoons, armadillos, and iguanas in the area. 

Dog-Friendly Policies

The island welcomes dogs, but they must remain leashed, and you are required to clean up after them. This makes it a great destination for pet lovers but remember to help keep the island’s beauty intact.

Important Visitor Tips

  • No Facilities: There are no bathrooms, trash cans, or other amenities on Keewaydin Island. Be prepared to take back whatever you bring in.
  • Access by Water Only: The island can only be reached by private boat, rental services, boat tours, or ferry.
  • Bring Water:  It is important to stay hydrated!
  • Sunscreen: The sun can be strong and there is limited shade.
  • Insect Repellent: Keep the mosquitos and flies away especially when the breeze dies down.

5 Best Things to Do on Keewaydin Island

Even though Keewaydin is a barrier island, there are several fun activities to enjoy during your visit. From relaxing on its shell-strewn beaches to exploring its natural beauty, Keewaydin Island offers adventure and tranquility.

1. Shelling on the Beach

Shelling on Keewaydin Island is a must-do activity, and you’ll be amazed at the abundance and variety of shells that line the beaches. Having lived in Southwest Florida for years, I’ve collected my fair share of shells, yet I couldn’t resist bringing home a few treasures from this trip.

Seashells along beach with Gulf of Mexico in backgrouns on Keewaydin Island.

The unspoiled shoreline is a paradise for shell collectors, and I saw plenty of visitors armed with shelling scoops and mesh bags, clearly on a mission to find the perfect pieces. If you find a shell with a live resident in it, please leave it on the beach!

Whether you’re a seasoned shell collector or just starting, Keewaydin’s beaches offer a shelling experience you won’t forget.


2. Sunbathing and Swimming

Sunbathing and swimming are popular activities on Keewaydin Island, offering a escape from crowded gulf beaches. While there are no lifeguards, and swimming is at your own risk, the beach features naturally carved wading areas that are perfect for children.

Wading pool area along beach ideal for children

With no shade available, it’s essential to come prepared – bring a beach towel, an umbrella, beach chairs, sunscreen, and any other essentials for a comfortable day in the sun. I’ve even seen visitors with beach trolleys, fully loaded with everything they need to make the most of their time on this beautiful island.


3. Bird Watching

Bird watching on Keewaydin Island is a treat for nature enthusiasts. The area is home to a variety of bird species. We’ve spotted ospreys, egrets, and even the occasional eagle. Bird nests are often visible in the treetops across the Intracoastal Waterway.

Trees across the intercoastal waterway in search of birds nest.

Some of the fascinating species you might encounter include herons, pelicans, spoonbills, woodpeckers, and hawks. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars to fully appreciate the beauty of the island’s feathered residents!


4. Fishing

Fishing off the beach at Keewaydin Island is a fantastic way to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. You can catch a variety of fish, including snook, redfish, tarpon, trout, sheepshead, snapper, flounder and lots more, depending on the season.

To make the most of your fishing experience, bring your fishing rod, tackle, bait (frozen or live shrimp), and a cooler for your catch. Since Keewaydin is a remote island, it’s a good idea to pack everything you need in advance.

Don’t forget to obtain a Florida fishing license! It can be purchased online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website.

If you decide to keep your catch, several local restaurants will cook it fresh for you! In Marco Island, check out the Snook Inn or Cocomo’s Grill, and in Naples, Kelly’s Fish House or The Dock at Crayton Cove are great options. It doesn’t get much better than enjoying a meal you caught yourself!


5. Walking/Hiking

Walking or hiking along Keewaydin Island’s 8 miles of pristine coastline is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The soft sandy beaches stretch endlessly, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.

Miles of sandy white beach along the Gulf of Mexico on Keewaydin Island.

As you walk, you’ll encounter plenty of seashells, shorebirds, and the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore. Since there’s no shade, it’s essential to come prepared with plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for the terrain.

Sand walking path lined with scrub from intercoastal side of island to the Gulf.
Another walk path from intercoastal side of island to the Gulf with taller plants.

Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, Keewaydin’s tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot to unwind and explore.


Where to Eat on Keewaydin Island

Keewaydin Island has no restaurants, so it’s best to pack your own food and drinks for the day. However, you’ll find a unique dining experience on the Intercoastal side of the island near the southern tip, where food boats serve up options like burgers, pizza, snacks, ice cream, and even adult beverages.

Food boat on intercoastal side of Keewaydin Island with menu on display.
Side view of food boat on the intercoastal side of Keewaydin Island.

Think of them as food trucks on water – a fun and convenient way to grab a bite while enjoying the island’s laid-back atmosphere!

Where To Stay

Keewaydin Island does not have any accommodations, but camping is allowed if you’re looking for a rustic overnight experience. I’ve seen people beach their boats on the Intercoastal side and set up campsites complete with inflatable couches and tiki torches, which likely help keep mosquitoes at bay during the evening.

Camping tent, inflatables sofa, 4 tiki torches and beached boat on the island.

If you are visiting Naples or Marco Island, there are plenty of fantastic places to stay. Below, I’ll highlight some top options for accommodations in the area.

Hotel Options in Marco Island – near Marina Area

📍Best Reasonable Spot: The BoatHouse – is a charming waterfront motel with a private dock and pool. Restaurants are within walking distance from the motel.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot: Holiday Inn Club Vacation Sunset Cove Resort, an IHG Hotel – offers spacious three-bedroom condo-style suites with full kitchens and private water-view balconies. The resort features a free shuttle to the beach for added convenience.

📍Best Luxury Spot: Old Marco Island Inn and Suites – blends a tropical “Old Florida” vibe with fresh, modern design. It offers spacious two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and a prime beachfront location.

🎈Click here for more accommodation options in Marco Island

Hotel Options in Downtown Naples

Naples offers an incredible selection of hotels, whether you prefer to stay downtown, on the beach, or throughout the city. For easy access to Keewaydin Island, consider the following options near the docks:

📍Best Reasonable Spot: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Naples Downtown – 5th Avenue offers a convenient location near 5th Avenue South. You enjoy a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and a daily hot breakfast.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot: Naples Bay Resort & Marina  – near 5th Avenue South, offers luxury accommodations with waterfront views. Guests enjoy access to multiple pools, a lazy river, a spa, and a full-service marina.

📍Best Luxury Spot: Inn on Fifth – located in the heart of downtown Naples, it has elegant accommodations and a rooftop pool. Its prime location puts you steps away from upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment on 5th Avenue South.

🎈Click here for more accommodation options in Naples

My Trip Planning Resources

These are the companies that I use when planning our trips:

Flights: WayAway
Hotel Reservations: Booking.com & Hotels.com
Vacation Rentals: VRBO
Portable Wi-Fi: Ryoko Pro
Rental Cars: DiscoverCars.com
Train Tickets: Rail Europe
Tours: Viator, Get Your Guide and GuruWalk
Travel Insurance: VisitorsCoverage
Airport Lounge Access Program: Priority Pass

If you choose to buy through any of the provided links, we may receive a commission without any extra charges to you. Explore our Travel Resources page for additional service suggestions.

Getting To Keewaydin Island

The only way to access Keewaydin Island is by boat, making it a true escape from the mainland. You can bring your own boat, rent one, join a guided tour, or take a water shuttle.

From Marco Island

We opted for the Hemingway Water Shuttle, departing from Rose Marina in Marco Island. This family-operated service offered the perfect balance of flexibility and convenience. We booked a round-trip reservation, ensuring a scheduled pick-up time that allowed us to fully enjoy the island. The last ferry leaves Keewaydin at 3 PM, so plan accordingly.

The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, and along the way, we were delighted by frequent dolphin sightings. The crew, consisting of a captain, friendly first mate, and Jack – the family’s enthusiastic dog who’s an expert at spotting wildlife – shared interesting stories and helpful tips.

Playful dolphin near our water shuttle in waterway to Keewaydin Island.
Dolphin following the Water Shuttle
Jack, the Hemingway family dog, on the beach next to the water shuttle.
Jack – first mate on the Hemingway Water Shuttle

The boat, a catamaran-style pontoon, comfortably accommodates 22 guests along with all your gear. They even offer beach chair and umbrella rentals, as well as water for purchase.

Hemingway Water Shuttle is a pontoon style boat with seats for 22 passengers, covered roof, and beach chairs on front of boat.

Parking is available at Rose Marina, with an overflow lot across the street. While waiting for your ferry, you can browse the marina store, which sells fishing gear, clothing, snacks, and other essentials. Plus, the restrooms at the marina are a welcome convenience before heading out to the island.

Map of Rose Marina.
Hemmingway Water Shuttle check-in booth in Rose Marina.

From Naples

If you are starting in Naples, several tours provide access to Keewaydin Island. These trips typically take 45 minutes to an hour each way, offering plenty of time to soak in the scenic views of Southwest Florida’s waterways.

Here are a couple of options to consider:

➡️ Eco Shelling Cruise to Keewaydin Island – this 3-hour narrated tour departs from Tin City and includes a shelling bag for each guest, water and snacks.

➡️Naples to Keewaydin Water Shuttle with everything included – water taxi service departs from East Naples, and includes each passenger with a canopy beach chair, beach towel, souvenir shell bag, bucket & shovel for kids, beach games, complimentary water or soda, and snack for the day.

FAQs: Keewaydin Island Complete Local Guide

Here are some key points that will help you in planning your trip to Keewaydin Island.

Can you swim at Keewaydin Island?

Yes, you can swim at Keewaydin Island. However, it’s important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty. Therefore, swimming is at your own risk. The calm waters and naturally carved wading areas make it a great spot for families to enjoy.

Are dogs allowed on Keewaydin Island?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Keewaydin Island, making it a pet-friendly destination. Just remember to keep your dog leashed, bring water, and clean up after them to preserve the island’s natural beauty.

Are there bathrooms on Keewaydin Island?

No, there are no bathrooms on Keewaydin Island. Be sure to plan accordingly, as the nearest facilities are on the mainland or on boats equipped with restrooms.

How long is the boat ride to Keewaydin Island?

The boat ride to Keewaydin Island takes about 30 minutes from Marco Island to the southern tip. If you’re departing from Naples, the trip can take up to an hour.

Final Thoughts: Keewaydin Island Complete Local Guide: Things to Do & More!

We found that Keewaydin Island is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re shelling along the untouched shoreline or spotting wildlife, this barrier island is a peaceful retreat. You can simply soak up the sun and enjoy the perfect setting. It’s an ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature.

With no roads, restaurants, or hotels, it’s an unspoiled paradise where simplicity reigns, and the beauty of Southwest Florida takes center stage. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a rustic camping adventure, Keewaydin Island promises a unique and memorable experience that will leave you wanting to return again and again.

I hope this guide has helped you in planning your trip to Keewaydin Island.  If you would like assistance in planning your visit to Southwest Florida, we would be happy to help.  Please refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or contact us via email with any questions.

Want to learn how to pack like a pro? Check out our post on How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip: Travel Light with Just a Carry-On & Personal Item!

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