ten thousand islands tour everglades city

Ten Thousand Islands

Florida’s 10,000 Islands are a chain of small islands off the coast of southwest Florida, partially contained in Everglades National Park.

The 10,000 Islands region is remote, rugged, and mostly uninhabited. Only a few hundred residents live on Chokoloskee Island, near Everglades City.

The name “10,000 Islands” is a local exaggeration; there are actually only a few hundred islands in the chain. Many of the islands are actually islets, very small mangrove islands, or mangroves growing on top of oyster bars.

Much of the landmass sits at sea level, or just above the water. Many islands and sandbars are only visible at low tide, and are submerged at other times.

The 10,000 Islands region starts just south of Marco Island, near Everglades City, and extends south to Cape Romano, near the southernmost point of the Florida peninsula.

Much of the Ten Thousands Islands region is protected by the boundaries of Everglades National Park, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge and other protected areas.

How to get to 10,000 islands?

The best access to Ten Thousand Islands is provided via Everglades City, or Naples, which is located further to the north.

Ten Thousand Islands is accessible primarily shallow-draft boat or watercraft. Canoes and kayaks offer the platforms for fishing, boating, and camping because of their shallow draft, versatility and silent operation. 

By land, Ten Thousand Islands can be accessed via Marco Island, Everglades City or Chokoloskee.

How to experience the 10,000 Islands

The best way to see the Ten Thousands region is by guided tour, via kayak, canoe or motor boat, because the area is dominated by water. 

Boating and navigation are challenging due to shallow water, remote access and other factors. 

Guided boat tours are the best choice for most people, and self-guided expeditions should only be considered by skilled and knowledgeable individuals. Even then, local knowledge is essential. Many areas are like mazes of shallow oyster beds, mangrove islets and thick mud which is difficult or dangerous to navigate.

Guided Tours in Ten Thousand Islands

Guided tours are an excellent way to explore the islands and learn about the local ecosystem, especially when boat crew are trained ecologists or biologists.

Things to do in Ten Thousand Islands

• Paddling, Kayaking and Canoeing
• Backcountry camping
• Night Sky Astronomy and Astrophotography
• Ecology and Nature Observation
• Birdwatching
• Cape Romano Dome Houses

Camping in Ten Thousand Islands

It is possible to camp in the Ten Thousand Islands, for the properly experienced, equipped and prepared.

Camping in Ten Thousand Islands is considered to be expert-level backcountry camping, and skills and expertise are required. 

The Ten Thousand Islands region is known for its volatile weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, wind and waves. 

Only experienced, skilled paddlers should consider camping or exploring without an experienced guide.

Ten Thousand Island Campsites:

• New Turkey Key
• Pavilion Key

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Everglades National Park, 

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is an area of protected nature in southwest Florida.

The wildlife refuge covers more than 35,000 acres, and is an important part of the broader Florida Everglades ecosystem. 

The wildlife refuge includes a vast chain of mangrove islands, shallow bays, islets and estuaries, and a vast array of native Florida wildlife and marine life.

Visitors can access the wildlife refuge by boat and can experience the area with natural activities, including paddling, boating, and wildlife viewing. 

Various licensed tour operators in the refuge offer guided boat tours, nature tours, canoe rentals and kayak rentals to learn about the ecosystem and explore the area.

The ecosystem is mostly composed of saltwater marshes, mangrove tunnels, low-lying islands, islets, and estuaries. 

The ecosystem is extremely rich, complex and supports a diverse network of life, including many native Florida species, like manatees, dolphins, and an amazing variety of birds.

Fishing in the islands, and offshore, is very popular. Popular target fish include tarpon, snook, redfish and others. 

The Ten Thousand Islands region is an important breeding ground for juvenile marine life, including countless fish species. The Ten Thousand Islands, along with Florida Bay, are essential to the health of Florida’s marine diversity and health of its fisheries.

Some parts of the Ten Thousand Islands are protected, so visitors should be sure to follow regulations and be respectful of the sensitive natural environment.

Threats to the Ten Thousand Islands

Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands region is extremely fragile, and provides essential eco-services to southwest Florida and its human and wildlife inhabitants. Threats to the Ten Thousand Island include irresponsible development, pollution, sea level rise, climate change, intensifying storms and hurricanes, and others.

Does anyone live on Ten Thousand Islands?

Generally, people do not live in Florida’s Ten Thousand Island region, which is very sparsely populated. 

One famous landmark, the Cape Romano dome houses, represent a famous attempt to live in the coastal region. The dilapidated dome houses have almost entirely disappeared, after decades of been battered by hurricanes and strong elements, demonstrating the ruggedness of the terrain and difficult conditions.

Historically the Ten Thousand Islands were inhabited by Florida’s native people, including the Seminole, Calusa, and previous indigenous peoples. Archeological evidence shows that the region was previously inhabited when sea levels were lower than they are today.

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Ten Thousand Islands Tour

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Duration 90 minutes

About Our 10,000 Islands tour departs daily from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in beautiful Everglades City, FL. This 90-minute excursion ventures across Chokoloskee Bay, into Indian Key Pass, and through the mangrove islands of Everglades National Park. A naturalist will highlight the rich history and unique wildlife of the area. Upon arrival to the Gulf of Mexico, guests may enjoy views of Indian Key, the Stop Keys, Picnic Key, and Marco Island. Every trip is unique, and while wildlife varies day to day, we are always on the lookout for manatees, osprey, sea turtles, shore birds, and playful dolphins.

The trip will take place on a 45ft passenger catamaran with partial shade and bench seating.

What to Bring Guests should consider bringing sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and water.

This adventure is operated by Everglades Florida Adventures

Customers will receive a full refund if cancellation is made more than 24 hours prior to the reserved tour time. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. We reserve the right to cancel tours if there are less than six people. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

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Ten Thousand Island Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's!

Zip through Everglades City on airboat tours

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“There is something about flying down narrow alleys of mangrove trees that is just a rush. I could never get tired of it. The guides always give more than just a ride. You learn so much about the Everglades and the total ecosystem that it is. We most certainly will be back!

—C. from Florida

“The mangrove tour was so much fun! We saw a family of dolphins swimming along the boat, several alligators, and a few fish jumping out of the water. Riding through the mangroves was beautiful and a fun way to see the Everglades. I would recommend to anyone.”

—J. from Massachusetts

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TEN THOUSAND ISLAND CRUISE (Everglades City) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Island Paradise:

Dolphin, shelling & birding eco boat tour, the ecosystem of the ten thousand islands nearshore mangrove islands is one of the most beautiful and complex in the entire world., this eco-tour includes wildlife viewing and a boat cruise through the ten thousand islands national wildlife refuge. during a beach stop on a secluded island, you can go shelling , picnic, sunbathe, or go swimming., ten thousand islands of adventure.

Hundreds of wildlife species

The Ten Thousand Islands consists of barrier islands with remote beaches, an endless, intricate maze of mangrove islands, and hundreds of wildlife species in this great area. The federally protected island chain of over 35,000 acres is a wildlife sanctuary with over 200 species of birds, more than 200 species of fish, and many species of reptiles and mammals.

Old Florida wonders and mysteries

” We took a private tour with Captain Nate and Julie. It was the highlight of our week. There were dolphins swimming along side our boat and they took us to an island with abundant shells. Nate really knew his stuff regarding all island creatures, especially dolphins. Julie was a blast! We will be back next year with grand kiddos. Sheila C. Green Bay, WI

Incredible Ten Thousand Islands eco tour through untamed wild islands

Unique and different every day

You’ll be amazed at the wildlife you’ll see – dozens of species of birds, the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins , Florida manatees , and even sea turtles. Maybe we’ll see some sharks and stingrays too. Every day and every boat tour brings surprises for what wildlife will show up. Indeed it is unique and different every day.

One-hour beach stop

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Island paradise: dolphin, shelling, & birding eco boat tour.

Tour length: 2.5 hours

Tickets: $125

Private Tour (Up to 6 people): $625

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Ten Thousand Islands, Florida: A Travel Planner’s Expert Guide

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Welcome to this ultimate guide on how to visit Ten Thousand Islands Florida, a hidden gem in the USA that is full of natural wonder, rich history, and to discover the canals dug by the first settlers and the thriving ecosystem that exists today, and is considered one of the best places to kayak in Florida .

Located in the second-largest mangrove forest in the world , Ten Thousand Islands is one of the hidden-gems in Florida , and is a destination that will captivate your imagination. This stunning location is a paradise of water and wildlife that will leave you breathless. As you explore the area, you’ll encounter a wealth of unique and fascinating wildlife, such as manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, and alligators. The miles of hiking trails and waterways are waiting for you to discover something new and exciting.

Despite living in Florida for 17 years, I had never heard of Ten Thousand Islands until very recently. But after exploring this hidden paradise myself, I am excited to share with you very helpful insider tips on the top things to do in Ten Thousand Islands , the best places to stay, and where to eat in this unique ecological paradise. So, without any further ado, let’s dive into this guide!

Where is the Ten Thousand Islands Florida

Just take a look at the map below to see how unique this region is. Ten Thousand Islands is off Florida’s southwest coast and it is challenging to visit this labyrinth of twisting channels through all the remote mangrove islands.

The  Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Southside of Highway 41, approximately 20 miles southeast of Naples-FL , just between Marco Island and Everglades City, Florida. Ten Thousand Islands is also a great alternative as one of the best day trips from Miami .

The West boundary lies along county road 92. The Gulf of Mexico borders the southern boundary, and the eastern boundary lies just west of Everglades National Park, and FAKA Union Canal in the northern portion of that boundary.

To make it easier, Ten Thousand Islands’ location from the major cities:

How to Explore the Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

Ten thousand islands by boat.

The refuge is best accessed by boat. There are two prominent boating access points are found in Goodland and Port-of-the-Islands. Take U.S. 41 south out of Naples and drive 12 miles to Hwy 92, turn right and drive 5 miles to Goodland, or continue on U.S. 41 for 5 miles to Port-of-the-Islands.

However, navigating the area can be challenging, so we highly recommend hiring a specialized local guide to take advantage of all the exotic scenery that the area has to offer in a safe and enjoyable way.

Besides boating, the mangrove ecosystem can be explored through various recreational activities, such as sport fishing, bird watching, camping on one of the islands, or simply basking in the natural beauty of this paradise.

Ten Thousand Islands by Car

The ecological refuge is in Collier County, on the southwest coast of Florida. It is located about 40 minutes from the city of Naples and Marco Island, and just 90 minutes from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Myers.

I recommend booking your car way in advance , and you can quote below, to have access to cars from many major companies which you can compare the best prices and find the best deal for you. You can get a 15% off your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend RentalCar because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different plac es.

Get to Ten Thousand Islands by Organized Tours

If you are in rush to organize your own trip to the Ten Thousand Islands, and you still want to have a taste of the Everglades, there are plenty of organized tour options. I have chosen some great options for you:

Private 10,000 Islands Eco Tour

This 2-hours tour, from Marco Island, will take you on a private journey through the calm waters in Ten Thousand Islands, stopping at the secluded beaches in the area and allow some time to gather sea shells and relax and enjoy the beauty of this eco paradise.

10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour

A very popular tour departures from Marco Island, will take you on a journey to go shelling in a place relatively undisturbed. The local guide provides insights on the local animals, flora and fauna. You will have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as dolphins, manatees and a variety of birds.

Marco Isla n d Dolphin Sightseeing Tour

This 2-hour tour departure from Marco Island, and you will on board with a captain-guide to explore the natural environment of Ten Thousand Islands, catch the dolphin jumping right behind your boat, learn about the amazing mangroves while you listen and learn all about this gem ecosystem.

Get To Know More About The Ten Thousand Islands, FL

You may be surprised to learn that despite its name, Ten Thousand Islands in Florida is actually home to hundreds of islands, not thousands . But don’t let that fool you, because what these islands lack in quantity, they more than make up for in quality.

Established in 1996, this 35,000-hectare refuge is a haven for wildlife, from vibrant marine species to a stunning array of plants. It’s no wonder that Ten Thousand Islands is considered one of Florida’s best-kept secrets , with its pristine beauty and diverse range of habitats.

Two-thirds of the refuge is made up of mangrove forests , fresh and saltwater marshes, brackish lagoons, winding channels, sandy beaches, and shallow bays that dominate the numerous islands. From the tiniest islands, barely the size of a basketball court, to larger islands that rival the size of a soccer field, each one is a unique and captivating ecosystem.

And that’s not all – Ten Thousand Islands is also home to a rich diversity of native wildlife, including several endangered species. With its protected habitats and flourishing wildlife, this is a destination that’s perfect for anyone looking for an authentic Florida experience.

The rich history of Ten Thousand Islands dates back over 3,500 years when Native Americans first settled in this beautiful region. The abundance of seafood was the main draw, and the tribes dug canals, built islands from discarded shells, and used the area as a refuge.

In the late 19th century, European settlers began to occupy the larger islands, and commercial fishing became the primary source of income. But as cities grew, people migrated to areas around Marco Island, Naples, and Everglades City.

Today, the islands are a protected sanctuary, and no one calls them home. This means that the area remains as pristine and untouched as it was when the first settlers arrived, as noted by the Florida Environmental Protection Service.

Wildlife at Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), helps to protect the habitat and multiple species of animals, including many endangered species such as the peregrine falcon, the wood stork, and the Atlantic sea turtle.

The volunteers participate in research and monitoring activities involving the local fauna and flora, and they help to provide protection for migratory birds and endangered species and educate, monitor, and inform the public about the uses and resources of this ecological sanctuary.

Multiple species of animals find shelter in the NWR, including:

Top Things to do in Ten Thousand Islands, FL

1. take a boat tour at ten thousand islands.

Ten Thousand Islands boat tour is the highlight of your visit, as you can see the islands and the wildlife, and I recommend booking your tour in advance to guarantee you don’t miss this awesome activity in Ten Thousand Islands. This is a 2-hour wild dolphin tour, with departure from Marco Island that you will take you to see the best of Ten Thousand Islands and all the landmarks around it.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you also have the option to go on the Boat Tours depart from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center several times a day. You can buy your tickets in person at the gift shop or you can book tickets online . The boat can accommodate 12 guests and has a total duration of 3-hours.

You will have an opportunity to see abundant wildlife up close such as dolphins and manatees. See and photograph wild bottlenose dolphins,  as they feed, play, and often perform amazing jumps around the boat.

2. Take a drive on the Loop Road – Everglades

A visit to Ten Thousand Islands isn’t complete without taking a drive down Loop Road, a 25 miles (40-km) gravel road through the Everglades. As you make your way down the road, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife including alligators, birds, otters, deer, and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther.

One of the best parts of driving down Loop Road is the chance to enjoy the cypress forest and tall pines in complete tranquility. Make sure to bring a pair of binoculars, and keep your eyes and ears open for the amazing wildlife that calls this area home. Remember to drive slowly and be respectful of the natural environment, and be prepared for many stops along the way to take pictures, and appreciate this unique sanctuary.

3. Birdwatch at Ten Thousand Islands

If you are a bird lover so, the Ten Thousand Islands NWR is a must-visit destination for you! Keep your eyes on the skies and you’ll be rewarded with sightings of dozens of year-round species including osprey, egrets, ibis, and herons.

During the winter months, the area becomes a temporary home for migratory birds such as the white pelican. So, grab your binoculars and get ready for some incredible bird watching!

4. Visit the Everglades City

The city of Everglades is a charming fishing village, with great food, and long history, and it is known as the fishing and stone crab capital of Southwest Florida. You can explore the historic city of Everglades City and Chokoloskee Island by car, bicycle, or on foot, and be able to appreciate up close a legendary past such as visiting buildings from the 1920s.

Also, Everglades City is the best option for accommodation if you are looking to spend a few days exploring the Ten Thousand Islands. Here you can find shops, restaurants, motels, a marina, a museum, a very small airport, and places to rent a canoe, kayak, bicycle and also, you can take boat and airboat tours. 

5. Visit the smallest Post Office in the USA

 Another thing to do if you are visiting Ten Thousand Island, make sure to stop at the Smallest Post Office in the USA that is located in Ochopee . It is actually a working Post Office still. This closet-sized, 7×8-foot building used to be an irrigation pipe shed for a tomato farm. It was pressed into service after a fire destroyed the Ochopee general store, which also housed the post office in 1953.

6. Go kayaking on Ten Thousand Islands

Ten Thousand Islands offers some of the most unique places to go kayaking in Florida . From Chokoloskee Island, about three miles from the ranger station, it’s a good half-day paddle to the closest keys. Before you go, make sure to study the tides as the current can rip through the narrow mangrove channels and make progress seem nearly impossible. It’s far better to plan your trip out on an outgoing tide, even if it means leaving later than you want to.

It’s a run of approximately 99 miles from Chokoloskee to Flamingo. A powered boat can cover the distance in a day but kayakers and canoeists can take a week to cover the same distance. This journey should be attempted only by experienced boaters and paddlers with good navigational skills and the proper equipment, or you can hire a local guide .

7. Go hiking at the 10,000 Islands Marsh Trail

Located at mile marker 31 on US41 or Tamiami Trail, the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to experience nature up close. The Marsh Trail is a mile-long pathway that runs alongside the marshes and is paved most of the way, making it an easy and flat stroll.

Along the trail, there is an observation tower that offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the Marsh Trail, there are several canoe and kayak trails that allow visitors to explore the area’s waterways and observe wildlife from a different perspective.

8. Go on a camping adventure in the Ten Thousand Islands

Everglades National Park has 48 designated backcountry campsites. Campers can choose from chickees, ground sites, and beach sites. Chickees are 10- by 12-foot wooden platforms built over the water away from land, and land sites are usually only a few feet higher than the surrounding mangroves. But please, be aware of the Ten Thousand Islands NWR rules and regulations .

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique camping experience for those who want to explore the area up close. From October to April, campers can stay overnight with “ Leave No Trace ” ethics. Beach sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and reservations are not required. However, it’s essential to know the rules and regulations of the refuge.

The refuge has some restrictions that you need to be aware of. Camping on the beaches of Panther Key, Camp Key, Hog Key, and Bee Key is not permitted from May 1 to September 30 due to the nesting of sea turtles and shorebirds. These animals’ safe emergence is important, and human interference such as campfires, tents, and boats can be disruptive. So, make sure to respect the local wildlife and enjoy your camping experience!

How to go Camping in Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

If you are planning to visit the Ten Thousand Islands, and want to go camping, remember that camping on the uninhabited islands has its challenges, which is part of the appeal.

Be aware that once you leave the safety of the launch, you’ll be on your own responsibility. You must bring everything you will need, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies. Bring some extra, in case you run into bad weather and must stay put.

Camping in the Everglades or at the Ten Thousand Islands NWR requires you to prepare well in advance , and I recommend using eco-friendly camping gear to help to protect the environment.

With no water on the islands, raccoons have been known to chew through plastic just to get a drink, so pack all perishables in the hatch of your boat or kayak. And keep in mind that cell phones and VHF radios don’t work out here in the bush.

As you head southeast along the coast, you’ll find the best spots to pitch a tent on the open water, or windward, sides of the islands, which tend to have the best beaches and, more often than not, fewer bugs.

Safety Tips Before You Go Camping:

Best Places to Stay in Ten Thousand Islands

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS ON MARCO ISLAND:

Besides Ten Thousand Islands is being in a very unique location, it is also a great option for day tours from other major cities.  Marco Island and Naples are a very short drive to Ten Thousand Islands and have many different options for accommodations, from budget to luxury, it depends on your style. I have selected the best options for the value:

• Best Budget Hotel: The Boat House
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: JW Marriott Marco Islands
• Best Upmarket Hotel: Marco Island Ocean Resort

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN EVERGLADES CITY:

The best option, and what I recommend is to spend at least one night in the Everglades City , as you can have the chance to appreciate the unique sunset and to wake up early and go for a full day of exploration.

Check here for a great value for your money:

• Best Budget Hotel: Everglades City Motel
• Best Mid-Range Accommodation :  Cozy Everglades City Studio
• Best Upmarket accommodation: Ivey House

Ten Thousand Islands Practical Information

WHEN TO VISIT THE TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS

The best time to visit is between October and May when the weather is cooler and drier – and there are fewer mosquitoes. If you visit during the summertime, between June and September , book your hikes and outdoor adventures for the morning, to avoid the hottest parts of the day and the frequent summer storms in the afternoon.

WHERE TO EAT IN TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS

Many come from far and wide,) just to eat at the local restaurants in the Ten Thousand Islands area. All the restaurants are owned by a local who has resided here for years. Some of the great options are:

• Triad Seafood Market & Cafe – American, seafood, and gluten-free options
• Carmellia Street Grill -Vegetarian-friendly, Gluten-Free, and Vegan options
• Havana Cafe of the Everglades – Caribbean, Latin, Seafood, Cuban. Also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
• Rod and Gun Club – Local cuisine, American, Seafood with a complete bar. 

WHAT TO PACK FOR TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS, FLORIDA

• Bring plenty of water: Remember that Florida is humid and hot and you will need to drink a lot of water. I love my LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle . I can refill this bottle anywhere and it comes with a carabiner to connect it to my daypack .  
• Wear sunscreen: You need to be prepared for a visit to the Ten Thousand Islands, Florida is sunny almost every day of the year, this sunscreen is my favorite as it is light and non-greasy when you sweat.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants with UPF 50 protection:  The more skin you show, the more you tempt the wet-season skeeters and other biting insects. Wear light hiking pants & a great long sleeves shirts for protection. 
• Bring Bug Spray:  You can buy it at most visitor centers, but that can of Deep Woods Off will cost you double or more.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses: Ten Thousand Islands is a flat, prairie-wetland, which means few trees and no shade, so this is more about personal comfort. Bring a hat with a good face cover like this one and wear a don’t forget to pack a pair of polarized sunglasses
• Bring proper shoes: Wear comfortable hiking or walking shoes and leave your sandals and heels at home. Even boat and tram tours require some walking 
• Check the Weather: South Florida is famous for sudden, violent rainstorms – mainly during summer – so pack an umbrella or poncho just in case.
• Bring along some food or snacks: Eating on trails is prohibited (with good reason), but it’s a good idea to pack trail mix or cereal bars to munch on at visitor centers or in the car.
• Bring your Camera: The Everglades landscape and wildlife are incredible, so don’t forget your camera

Ten Thousand Islands, Florida Conclusion

The National Wildlife Refuge of the Ten Thousand Islands in Florida, is a Hidden Paradise in USA. With a rich ecosystem and a large preserved and remote environmental area, which few have the privilege to visit, and it is possible to have a very private and remote.

If you love nature and off-the-beaten-path destinations I really recommend visiting Ten Thousand Islands Nature Wildlife Refugee. And don’t forget the most important ingredient for any trip through the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands – a spirit of adventure!

Here is some further information I think you might enjoy:

• 23 Things to do on Anna Maria Island
• Best beaches on Anna Maria Island
• 150+ Florida Captions + Sharable Images
• 20 Off the Beaten Path in Florida – you won’t believe these places!
• 17 Unique Things to do in Florida
• How to Visit Honeymoon Island State Park
• How to Visit Caladesi Island State Park
• 15 Fun Things to do in Orlando for Adults
• All you need to know about renting an RV for the First Time

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14 thoughts on “ten thousand islands, florida: a travel planner’s expert guide”.

I’ve spent many days paddling and overnight camping in the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands are some of my favorite cays to camp on. I’ve fought off many a raccoon there to save my food. But to see all the birds, dolphins and alligators makes it all worthwhile.

That is such an amazing in-depth guide to the Ten Thousands Islands. A few years ago, I did a boat tour around the islands but unfortunately I didn’t have enough time to explore the more remote areas. After reading your post, I have to come back again! 🙂

I would love to see the manatees! Looks like a really great place for wildlife. The city looks interesting as well! Thanks for this great guide.

Wow, how cool! We’re Florida bound this winter, adding this to the list. Thanks!

im literally crying right now, coz i was meant to be visiting this July!! It looks soooo awesome, im saving this for when we are allowed to enter the US!

Oh Tia, I am so sorry about you to have to postpone your trip to the US. This is really a challenging year, but hopefully in 2021 things will get back to normal and you will have an awesome time. If you come to Florida, please let me know and I would love to meet you.

Awesome Cindy, I hope you get to visit the Ten Thousand Islands and I hope you love it too. During wintertime will be even better, because the weather will be cooler to do plenty of outdoor adventures.

Katy, the manatees are just so incredible and peaceful and yes, the wildlife is so rich and diverse.

I am so glad to hear you enjoyed this guide. And how awesome you did a tour in the islands before, it is such a unique and wild area, I hope you get the chance to go back.

How awesome Karen you spend days paddling this area, it must be amazing and full of adventures. I didn’t have the chance because I visited during summer, it was over 100 degrees and I had my 2 little dogs with me, but I still want to go back to spend a few days paddling and exploring the islands.

I had no idea this was in Florida! Definitely going to check it out when I visit again.

Wow this looks incredible! I have actually never heard of Ten Thousand Islands but now I want to visit! Your wildlife photos are incredible!

Thank you so much Bettina, I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the photos.

Hi Krista – I have been living in Florida for 14 years and I just learned not long ago about Ten Thousand Islands. Such a unique and gorgeous place!

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Ten Thousand Islands: Sandfly Island is perfect ‘intro’ kayak trail

By: Author Bonnie Gross

Posted on Last updated: February 14, 2024

Explore one of Ten Thousand Islands on this easy adventure

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is one of the wildest areas in Florida, and that’s one reason it beckons to us.

The mangrove islands scattered off the Gulf coast in Southwest Florida are full of brilliant color —  intensely green foliage, vivid blue sky – and abundant wildlife, from the flocks of birds to the manatees, dolphins and all sorts of fish in the water.

Kayaking Ten Thousand Islands is one of the best ways to see this vast wilderness. The kayak trail to Sandfly Island is the perfect introduction that even those with moderate kayak experience can tackle and enjoy.

The Sandfly Loop kayak trail has some great things going for it:

• It’s relatively short. At about five miles, it takes two or three hours of paddling (plus an hour to explore Sandfly Island.)
• On Sandfly Island, you can dock, have a picnic and walk a one-mile trail past vestiges of pioneer homes.
• You can extend the paddle as long as you’d like by exploring the many passageways, bays and islands around Sandfly Island.

The trail starts at the kayak and canoe launch at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center of Everglades National Park.

On the sunny December Saturday we paddled this trail, we had perfect conditions – no wind, no clouds, temperature in the low 70s.

A group of 20 kayaks launched in front of us, and I was concerned we’d contend with them on the trail. They headed southeast, however, and, except for one canoe and two or three power boats, we had the whole route to ourselves, including Sandfly Island itself. Solitude is one of the precious experiences of the Ten Thousand Islands.

When planning this trip, there are two things you must do: Check the tide tables in advance and get the trail map at the ranger station before you start.

The tides are important because the launch area gets very shallow and muddy at low tide and the changing tide generates a considerable current in narrow passes in Ten Thousand Islands.

The ideal time to leave is a few hours before low tide, so you kayak out with the falling tide and then return when the rising tide helps carry you back to Everglades City.

The trail starts with a 1.5 mile kayak across the open water of Chokoloskee Bay. You’ll see the channel markers nearby within which power boats stay. As you enter the islands, you’ll pass one with a sandy beach; that was the only beach we came across on our route. (There are beaches on several of the outer rim of islands reachable on more ambitious or overnight outings.)

While the Ten Thousand Islands can all look confusingly similar, it is easy to spot Sandfly Island – the portapotty on the dock is visible the whole way!

The island itself is covered with tropical hardwood hammock vegetation. If you like gumbo limbo trees with their peeling red bark, you’ll love Sandfly Key; it’s full of beautiful specimens.

The most fascinating thing about Sandfly Key is its human history.

The Calusa Indians created the high ground with shell mounds built over many years.

In the 1870s, white pioneers began inhabiting Sandfly. The Bogess family lived here in the 1920s, farming tomatoes and contending with what had to be the misery of thick mosquitos, clouds of no-see-ums (also known as sandflies), summer heat and dripping humidity.

We can see traces of the Bogess homestead; there are foundations, a cistern, a tamarind tree and papaya trees that they probably introduced.

At one point, a bubbling puddle is marked with a sign indicating that fresh water wells up here at the site of a well that the Collier Corporation dug – 384 feet deep – in 1922. Today, the slightly salty water is still popular with birds who have few sources of fresh water in the area.

The return paddle takes you through and around various neighboring islands. The route is not marked, but the map is very accurate and it’s not hard to follow. (Taking a wrong turn and ending up in a dead end is also part of the Ten Thousand Island experience.)

A guidebook I own suggested an alternative route that circles Sandfly Island. We didn’t take it but the ranger at the visitor center said that’s a fine way to go too.

A few precautions:

• Check the weather and avoid high winds or the possibility of lightning.
• Wear or bring shoes that can get wet and muddy; you’ll need them at the launch. Closed-toe shoes are recommended because of the sharp oyster beds and barnacles.
• If you were to consider doing this trip in the summer – and I wouldn’t — head out as early as possible to avoid the heat and afternoon thunder storms.

Planning your kayak trip to Sandfly Island:

• Everglades National Park Gulf Coast Visitor Center is being rebuilt and operations will be limited in winter 2023-24. All operations at the Gulf Coast area are expected to return in late fall 2024.
• Canoe or kayak rentals are available from two local companies that deliver kayaks to the launch area at the Gulf Coast visitor center: Everglades Adventure Tours and Ivey House .
• Kayaking to Sandfly Key is part of an experience the park service calls the Tamiami Triathalon, which involves bicycling Shark Valley, hiking/slogging a 3.5 mile trail and paddling to the Island.
• Are you ready for an overnight wilderness experience? Here’s a guide to camping in the Ten Thousand Islands  and paddling through Indian Pass .
• The Ten Thousand Islands NWR has a one-mile hiking trail into the coastal marsh and an observation tower.

Your visit to Everglades City

We love visiting Everglades City. It’s a small fishing village with fresh seafood, historic buildings and access to many outdoors adventures.

• Everglades City is the base for many stone-crab fishermen, so it’s a good place to indulge in the seasonal seafood. Here’s where to eat stone crabs in Everglades City plus general background on the city.
• Visit one of our favorite, off-the-beaten-track stops,  historic Smallwood Store  on Chokoloskee, just four miles away.
• We’ve stayed at Ivey House Bed and Breakfast  in Everglades City, which also operates a kayaking outfitter.
• Nearby  Ochopee Post Office   on the Tamiami Trail is the smallest in the US. And cute.
• Scenic drive across Florida via Tamiami Trail .
• Shark Valley area of Everglades National Park : Excellent trail for bicycling and wildlife viewing in Everglades National Park.
• Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery : It’s always a thrill to view his large-format black-and-white photos of Florida’s wilds.
• Big Cypress National Preserve
• Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk : This is a beautiful spot worth a short walk.
• Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park : Big wild and great for Everglades hiking and kayaking.

All articles on FloridaRambler.com are original, produced exclusively for our readers and protected by U.S. Copyright law. Any use or re-publication without written permission is against the law.

This page contains affiliate links from which Florida Rambler may earn a sall commission when a purchase is made. This revenue supports our mission to produce quality stories about Florida at no cost to you.

The author, Bonnie Gross, travels with her husband David Blasco, discovering off-the-beaten path places to hike, kayak, bike, swim and explore. Florida Rambler was founded in 2010 by Bonnie and fellow journalist Bob Rountree, two long-time Florida residents who have spent decades exploring the Florida outdoors. Their articles have been published in the Sun Sentinel, the Miami Herald, the Orlando Sentinel, The Guardian and Visit Florida.

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Thursday 13th of July 2023

We moved down to Florida last year from MN. I am an avid paddler in the BWCA (Boundary Waters Canoe Area), and now that we are living here, my son (16) and I would like to kayak out to the island(s) for a night or two. Here are a few questions since this is much different than the cold waters of MN. What is a good kayak on a budget you would use (sit under, sit on top, cargo outside, cargo inside, etc)? And any other advice? Feel free and email. Thank you!

Bob Rountree

Friday 14th of July 2023

Kayaking in Florida is not much different than kayaking anywhere else, at least in terms of gear. I prefer a sit-on-top and my wife prefers the security of a sit-inside. The biggest difference is weather, especially in the Ten Thousand Islands, where the brutal humidity of summer and early fall is unbearable, not to mention the mosquitoes and pop-up storms. The best time of year to paddle (and camp) in the Ten Thousand Islands is from mid-November through May. Hope that helps.

Wednesday 22nd of June 2022

We are planning a trip to Florida for end Sept/early October and I have just discovered your website - so useful, thank you for all the great info. Kayaking Ten thousand islands was one of the activities on my wish list, but now I am concerned about your remarks regarding the time of the year. Is this a bad idea in late summer also?

Thursday 23rd of June 2022

I hate to tell you this, but late summer is the worst time of year to paddle the Ten Thousand Islands. It's hot, muggy and the mosquitoes will eat you alive. It's also peak rainy season and storms pop up out of nowhere.

Saturday 13th of November 2021

Great article! So how bad are the sand flies on sandfly Island during the winter months?

Bonnie Gross

Sunday 14th of November 2021

Not bad at all in winter! I didn't do it in the summer (and wouldn't) but on the breezy winter day, we really were unbothered. Bonnie

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Everything you need to know about Everglades National Park

Plan your trip to the southern tip of Florida to visit the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Why you should go to Everglades National Park

Sprawling between South Florida’s Lake Okeechobee and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. About 20 percent of the region is protected within the confines of Everglades National Park , the third largest national park after Death Valley and Yellowstone in the lower 48 states. While the park’s main purpose is preserving wilderness, Everglades also provides plenty of scope for outdoor adventure.

Although technically a wetland , perhaps it’s best to think of the Everglades as the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. The Seminole people called the region Okeechobee (“river of grass”). And while a large part of the Everglades is covered in razor-sharp sawgrass, the region also encompasses mangroves , tropical hardwood hammocks (island forests), pine and cypress forests, freshwater prairie, and various marine and estuarine habitats.

(This ambitious new trail will someday connect South Florida’s two national parks.)

“A visitor with an untrained eye—especially one used to the dramatic vistas of some western national parks—might arrive at Everglades National Park and think ‘What's the big deal?’” says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades. “It's a park that requires you to really train your eye and be mindful and be present. When you do that, you can experience some really incredible and subtle nature.”

Where to find the best views in the park

With elevation ranging between sea level and eight feet, it’s not easy to snatch a lofty view of the park anywhere other than the 70-foot-high Shark Valley Observation Tower . Opened in 1984, the futuristic spiral renders views of up to 20 miles across the Everglades.

Fourteen miles west of Coe Visitor Center along the Main Park Road, the Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk and elevated shade shelter provides another wide view across the river of grass.

One of the best coastal views is from the second-floor breezeway of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Where to find the park’s best trails

Located near Coe Visitor Center, the Gumbo Limbo Trail (0.4 mile) and Anhinga Trail (0.8 mile) meander through Royal Palm hammock, while the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trails   penetrate the park’s largest stand of native pines.

Dead flat and paved, the 15-mile Shark Valley Trail varies between sawgrass marsh and tropical hardwood hammocks. Despite the name, there aren’t any sharks, just snoozing gators to step around (at a safe distance, of course).

Where to spot wildlife

Flamingo village is surprisingly good for wildlife. Osprey hatch and raise their young on nesting towers beside the marina, while manatees and American crocodile are sometimes spotted in the bay and nearby mangrove channels.

Alligators   routinely emerge from the swamp and sun themselves on or beside the Shark Valley Trail . It’s also a primo bird habitat for creepy-looking wood storks, gorgeous roseate spoonbills, and anhinga “snakebirds.”

Other places to watch gators and birdlife are the Anhinga Trail and Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk   in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park adjacent to the national park.

(Go on a wildlife odyssey through the Everglades and Key West.)

How to visit the park like a Nat Geo Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer and conservation biologist Gabriela Tejeda has guided visitors along the park’s Florida Bay coast in boats, kayaks, and on paddleboards.

Her favorite way to explore inland areas is "slough slogging." It entails hiking in knee-to-waist-high water through sawgrass to reach secluded hardwood hammocks   or cypress domes —flora and fauna rich arboreal islands in the sawgrass.

When viewed from above, the domes form a rough circle around a pond. “What I didn’t know the first time I explored a dome,” Tejeda recalls, “is that the water in the middle is an ‘alligator hole’—a place where they hang out in the winter when the rest of the Everglades is drying out.”

“[The cypress domes] are unlike anything I had ever seen,” Tejeda continues. “I like to equate them to a fairy tale—a little fairy dome where you just feel like there’s going to be something magical flying around.” No fairy sightings so far. “But I always see owls and alligators and snakes.”

She highly recommends joining a ranger-led slough slog to Double Dome or other cypress domes along the Main Park Road.

Notable activities and excursions

Driving:   The Main Park Road runs through a variety of Everglades ecosystems—freshwater prairie, cypress forest, mangrove, and coastal marsh — on a 38-mile journey between the Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo . Along the way are sideroads to the Royal Palm trails, Historic Nike Missile Site , the   Mahogany Hammock boardwalk trail, and West Lake Boardwalk .

Tours:   Shark Valley offers two-hour narrated tram tours that stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. January through April, rangers lead Full Moon/New Moon Bike Rides and other activities.

Narrated boat tours depart from Flamingo and Everglades City . The latter is also homebase for private outfitters offering airboat tours, including Everglades City Airboat Tours. History buffs should visit the town’s small but interesting Museum of the Everglades .

Paddling:   Flamingo and Everglades City bookend the Everglades’ ultimate kayak/canoe experience —the Wilderness Waterway —a 99-mile meander through mangroves and marshes with raised platform “chickee hut” campsites along the way. Everglades City is also the starting point for self-guided paddles along the Turner River Canoe Trails .

Best things to do for families

Bikes & boats:   If keeping kids active is your mission, rent bikes and dodge snoozing alligators along the Shark Valley Tram Trail or explore Florida Bay and the mangroves by boat. Flamingo Adventures   offers canoe and kayak rentals in two-hour increments, as well as full-day pontoon boat rentals.

Tours:   Hop aboard a narrated boat tour of Florida Bay (from Flamingo Marina) or the Ten Thousand Islands (from Port Everglades); or feel the wind in your face during an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride from outfitters around the periphery of the park.

Junior Rangers:   Offered in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, the park’s Junior Ranger Booklet features hands-on and self-guided activities including a scavenger hunt to spot wild animals that call the park home.

The park also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors program that provides vouchers for fourth graders and their families in the U.S. to visit the Everglades (and other national parks) free of charge for an entire year.

Where to stay

Hotels: Destroyed by a hurricane in 2005, Flaming Lodge is open again with new waterview rooms. Outside the park, the closest hotels are in Homestead and Doral (on the eastern edge of the park) and Everglades City, Marco Island, and Naples (beyond the western edge).

Houseboats: Modern, six-person, 42-foot houseboats at Flamingo Marina are equipped with a bathroom (and with shower), an indoor galley, outside grill, air conditioning, bedding, and fish-cutting tables.

Camping: Long Pine Key Campground is open November 1 to April 30. Flamingo Campground is open year-round. Both feature bath houses, dump stations, and potable water. Reservations highly recommended. For camping with the comforts of home, Winter Glamping Tents are available November-April in Flamingo.

Wilderness camping is allowed on certain ground or beach sites or “chickees” (elevated camping platforms). Most sites are accessible only by water and all require wilderness permits. Reservations at Recreation.gov .

Here’s what else you need to know

Access: Although the entire coast is open to exploration via watercraft, land-bound visitors have three options for entering the park: Everglades Homestead in the east, Shark Valley in the north, and Gulf Coast in the northwest.

When to visit:   The dry season (December to March) is when most ranger programs and park concessions are available. This is also the best time to see wading birds and other wildlife. The wet season (April to November) is hot, humid, buggy, and has fewer park services.

“Many people prefer the winter for the terrific weather,” says ranger Allyson Gantt. “But each season offers something special. The shoulder seasons of fall and spring are less busy and may offer more solitude. Summer is especially great for boating and other water activities.”

Closures: A multi-year construction project to raise the level of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) often features delays. Shark Valley parking is often full by 10 a.m. Check out the latest road, trail, and parking lot conditions, plus weather and prescribed burning alerts at the park’s   conditions page.  

Fishing: Unless you’re under 16 or a Florida resident 65 or older, a state fishing license is required. Anglers casting south of Nine Mile Pond need a saltwater fishing license; from Nine Mile Pond northwards, a freshwater fishing license is mandatory.

Swimming: Swimming and snorkeling are forbidden anywhere inside the park.

Remote control aircraft: Drones, model airplanes, and similar unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park.

Read before you go:   Originally published in 1947, the definitive Everglades book remains The Everglades: River of Grass ,   by Florida writer and conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

Are pets allowed?  

Because of the park’s wildlife-rich environment—and the potential threat that it poses to both pets and wild animals—pets and service animals are only allowed in parking lots, on boats, and in the campgrounds and picnic areas at Flamingo and Long Pine Key.

How accessible is Everglades?

Among the accessible sites and services are seven trails, all four visitors centers, two developed campgrounds and one backcountry campsite, narrated boat tours, and the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Visitor information via TDD is available at (305) 242-7740.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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New! Buggy Combo »

A Comfortable, Accessible Tour Boat

Our 49-passenger, 45-foot pontoon boat provides daily tours through the Ten Thousand Islands of Everglades National Park.

The boat's captain and first mate will explain the region's natural wonders, wildlife, cultural history and Everglades City landmarks.

Because the boat uses quiet, fuel-efficient motors, it minimizes the impact of your visit on the natural environment. It also makes it easier for you to hear the crew and spot wildlife!

The boat features bench seating, handrails, a bathroom, and a canopy for shade. You may still want to wear sunblock, as the sun reflects off the water.

The boat is accessible via a ramp from the dock. The boat's deck has space for wheelchairs next to its bench seats. Learn more about accessibility .

• Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour
• 10K & Buggy Tour Combo
• Everglades City Boardwalk
• Meet the Animals
• Environmental Commitment
• Nature & Culture
• About the Tour Boat
• Everglades National Park Passes
• Accessibility