Keewaydin Island is a hidden gem located off the coast of Naples and Marco Island in southwest Florida. This barrier island, stretching about 8 miles, is a slice of untouched paradise with no bridges, no roads, and no cars and accessible only by boat. Known for its secluded, natural beauty, and destination to escape the busy mainland beaches, and my favorite, it is a shelling haven.
Why Keewaydin Island is Special
Keewaydin Island stands out as a tranquil haven, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the Gulf Coast as it once was featuring undeveloped, wild, and incredibly scenic shoreline. The island is part of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, ensuring it remains preserved and protected from development.
Here are a few things that make Keewaydin Island so special:
- Seclusion and Privacy: Because there are no bridges or easy access points, Keewaydin is far less crowded than most Naples or Marco Island beaches. Many visitors reach it by private boat or water taxi, ensuring it remains a peaceful retreat.
- Pristine Beaches: The island boasts some of the most beautiful, untouched beaches along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The sand is soft and white, the waters are crystal-clear, and the shoreline is ideal for walking, lounging, or swimming.
- Wildlife and Natural Beauty: Keewaydin is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and a plethora of bird species such as ospreys, pelicans, and shorebirds. The island’s natural habitat makes it a paradise for nature lovers.
- Dog-Friendly: Keewaydin Island is one of the few beaches in the area where dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for pet owners looking to enjoy the water with their furry friends.
How to Get to Keewaydin Island
Since Keewaydin Island is only accessible by boat, there are a few options for visitors to reach this paradise:
- Boat Rentals: Renting a boat from nearby Naples or Marco Island marinas is a great way to explore Keewaydin at your own pace. Many visitors choose to rent pontoons or small boats to enjoy a day of cruising along the coast.
- Water Taxis: For those without access to a private boat, water taxi services are available from Naples and Marco Island. The Hemingway Water Shuttle is one such service, providing round-trip transportation and allowing you to bring coolers, chairs, and beach gear for your day on the island.
- Eco-Tours: Several companies offer eco-tours to Keewaydin Island, including Eco Endeavors where guides share their knowledge about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and history. These tours often include stops for shelling, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
Things to Do on Keewaydin Island
While Keewaydin is all about soaking up nature and enjoying the beach, there’s no shortage of activities for those who want to explore the island’s full potential:
Shelling: Keewaydin’s beaches are a shell collector’s dream. Thanks to the island’s remote location, the beaches are often littered with beautiful shells, including conchs, scallops, and rare finds like sand dollars and whelks.
Beach Picnics and Relaxation: With no development on the island, the beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic. Visitors often bring coolers with snacks, drinks, and plenty of sun protection to spend a full day relaxing on the sand.
Boating and Fishing: The waters around Keewaydin are ideal for boating, whether you’re out for a leisurely cruise or fishing for the Gulf’s bounty. You can anchor your boat right off the shore and enjoy a day on the water, with plenty of spots to cast a line for species like snook, redfish, and trout.
Wildlife Watching: The island’s diverse ecosystem makes it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. Dolphins frequently play in the waters around the island, and you may spot manatees, sea turtles, or even a bald eagle soaring overhead.
Jet Skiing and Watersports: If you’re looking for a bit more excitement, Keewaydin’s surrounding waters are perfect for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Many local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, allowing you to explore the waters in a more adventurous way.
Food Boats: One of the unique quirks of Keewaydin Island is its fleet of floating food boats. During the peak season, vendors set up shop on their boats, offering everything from hot dogs and ice cream to cold drinks and snacks. It’s a fun, laid-back way to grab a bite without leaving the beach!
Preserving the Island’s Natural Beauty
As part of the Rookery Bay Reserve, conservation is crucial to maintaining Keewaydin’s untouched charm. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following the principles of “Leave No Trace”, meaning that all trash and belongings should be taken with you when you leave.
There are no permanent facilities, restrooms, or waste disposal sites on the island, so plan accordingly. This keeps the island pristine and ensures that wildlife remains undisturbed by human activity.
Tips for Visiting Keewaydin Island
- Pack Essentials: Bring everything you’ll need for a day trip, including water, snacks, sunscreen, beach chairs, towels, and shade umbrellas. Since there are no facilities, plan ahead to make your trip comfortable.
- Go Early: If you’re visiting during peak season, arrive early to snag the best spots on the beach and avoid crowds.
- Mind the Tide: Be mindful of the tide schedules, as certain areas of the island can become submerged or difficult to access during high tide.
- Explore Both Sides: While most visitors stick to the Gulf side of the island, the backwaters of Keewaydin, facing the mainland, are also worth exploring, particularly for kayaking or watching dolphins.
A Slice of Florida’s Wild Side
Keewaydin Island is a rare slice of natural beauty along Florida’s Gulf Coast with an unspoiled shoreline. As a beach lover and sheller, Keewaydin Island is one of my favorite beaches in Florida.
Visiting this island allows you to connect with the beauty of Florida’s coastline, while also appreciating the importance of conserving such special places. It’s a destination that remains relatively unknown to many, making it all the more special for those who choose to explore its shores.
