Shell Key Preserve
This 1,800-acre preserve includes one of the County's largest undeveloped barrier islands (Shell Key), as well as numerous mangrove islands and expansive seagrass beds.
Shell Key has been designated as one of the state's most important areas for shorebird nesting and wintering and it serves as an important study area for these species.
It also is an important area for recreation. A balance for both uses was established by restricting public use to the northern and southern ends of the island. A central core area for conservation is off-limits to the public. Boating, camping (permit required), and beach-going activities are permitted in public use areas of the Preserve.
Shell Key Preserve webpage