An exploration on the Beach
The Marco Island Shell Club finds its happy place on the beach at sunrise. Either after a good storm with new shells or after the normal high and low tides which bring these treasures from the sea to our baskets. This view shows a fogbow over Keewaydin Island. A fogbow is a rare weather phenomenon that appears as a white arc or circle of light in foggy conditions. Similar to a rainbow, it’s created by sunlight interacting with water droplets, but in fog instead of rain.
The club also partakes in annual excursions to other local islands near Marco Island which are rich in the offerings of the sea. Each year, members of the Marco Island Shell Club take an excursion in the early morning aboard the ferry to Keewaydin Island, one of the barrier islands just North of the Marco River where one can find a large variety of shells, sand dollars, coral, and other treasures from the sea.
Annual Excursions
The Club plans several excursions throughout the season. Excursions in the past included trips to nearby shell shows and shelling excursions. Members must pre-register for activities they want to attend, even if there is no charge. For us to have an accurate count, please register one person's name only and select the method of payment. You will receive an email confirming your registration. Print a copy for your records.
***PLEASE NOTE: EXCURSIONS ARE OPEN TO MEMBERS ONLY. PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE unless the club cancels the event or changes the original date of the excursion. Each attendee must sign a release absolving the club of any liability. ***
HEMINGWAY SHUTTLE TO KEEWAYDIN - Monday, February 2, 2026.
SIGN UP IS NOT AVAILABLE YET
Keewaydin Island is a fabulous shelling spot, and we will have the experience of an extreme low tide following. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms on the island nor food and beverage services unless the food boats are there that day. You may bring a folding beach chair, cooler with food/beverages, beach towels, and a container for your wonderful finds.
The recommended arrival time is 6:00am as boarding is at 6:15am. Departure is 6:30am sharp. Because this excursion is scheduled and seat committments made well in advance, no refunds will be issued. Please be aware that the Shuttle runs on a tight schedule and will depart promptly at 6:30am and cannot wait for late arrivals.
Although we will plan for an 10:45am return departure, the shuttle runs back and forth to Rose Marina and it is possible to leave earlier if desired.
SOUTH BEACH WALK WITH MARGE TUNNELL - Monday, January 19, 2026.
Join Marge on a shelling tour of South Beach (Marco Island) on Monday, January 19 at 6:30am during an extreme low tide following a full moon. Marge is an expert on the animals and shells found on our beach and will guide us in a tutorial of our excellent finds including how to identify live sand dollars which should be plentiful in that area.
