Tucked between Naples and Marco Island, Keewaydin Island is the kind of hidden gem that feels like a secret whispered from one Florida local to another. With no roads, no bridges, and not a single high-rise in sight, this barrier island offers the kind of raw, sandy bliss that reminds you what the Florida coast used to be—untamed, unfiltered, and just a little wild.
To get there, you’ll need to hop aboard a boat, water taxi, or jet ski—but the adventure starts the moment you leave the dock. Whether you’re craving peace and solitude or a festive day with fellow sun-seekers and food boat fanatics, Keewaydin delivers a salty slice of paradise you won’t soon forget.
What We Love
Barefoot Beach Days
The shoreline here is long, quiet, and practically begging you to ditch your flip-flops. Powdery white sand meets gentle Gulf surf, with plenty of space to spread out and claim your own little patch of paradise. Collect shells, build sandcastles, or just lay back and soak in that sea breeze.
Boat-In Tailgates
On weekends, the party shows up in style. Picture dozens of boats anchored close to shore, coolers cracked open, Jimmy Buffett on the speakers, and beach chairs sunk ankle-deep in the surf. It’s like a floating tailgate meets island happy hour.
Dolphin Cameos & Pelican Fly-Bys
You’re almost guaranteed to spot wildlife on the way in or out—think dolphins leaping at your bow, ospreys diving for dinner, and pelicans gliding low over the water like seasoned surfers. Bring binoculars if you’re a birder; bring your phone if you’re everyone else.
Zero Footprint Vibes
This island is totally undeveloped (except for a few private homes on the southern tip), which means you get nature in all its unspoiled glory. No boardwalks. No kiosks. Just sand, sea oats, and the occasional gopher tortoise.
Lunch from a Boat
Food boats—think floating food trucks—often anchor offshore to serve up ice cream, tacos, and burgers straight from the sea. There’s something absurdly fun about ordering nachos from a pontoon.
Atmosphere & Setting
Keewaydin has a “choose-your-own-adventure” vibe. On the north side, things are laid-back and practically deserted—perfect for reading a paperback or walking your dog (yes, pups are welcome!). Head south, especially on weekends, and it transforms into a low-key social scene of boaters, locals, and beach lovers sharing sunscreen and playlists.
The backdrop? Turquoise Gulf waters, whispering sea grass, and a horizon that glows peachy-pink at sunset. There are no shops or bars, just the sound of waves, laughter, and the occasional island breeze rustling through pine scrub.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Short answer: yes—if you’re up for a bit of an adventure. You’ll need to rent or charter a boat (or hop on the Hemingway Water Shuttle out of Naples), but that cost pays off in spades. A round-trip ride usually runs about $50–60 per adult for shuttles, with private boat rentals starting higher.
You can easily make a half- or full-day out of it. Pack a picnic, bring your cooler, and treat it like your own personal sandbar retreat. Best for: couples, families with older kids, dog lovers, and anyone who finds peace in places without pavement.
Other Considerations
-
Bring Everything: There are no facilities—no bathrooms, no running water, no trash cans. Bring what you need and take it all back out.
-
Tides & Weather: Watch the tides if you anchor a boat, and keep an eye on summer thunderstorms—they roll in quick.
-
Bug Patrol: During warmer months, bug spray is a must, especially in the shaded dunes.
-
Shoes Optional, But Useful: Shells can be sharp—water shoes or flip-flops will save your feet.
-
No Shade: Umbrellas or pop-up tents are a good idea unless you want full sun all day.
You don’t stumble into Keewaydin Island—you seek it out. And in doing so, you find something that feels beautifully rare: a pocket of Florida that still marches to the rhythm of the tides, not the traffic. If your soul’s been craving a beach day that’s one part adventure, two parts peace, and all parts memorable, Keewaydin is calling.
Keewaydin Island
📍 8 2nd St S, Naples, FL (boat access only – closest launches in Naples and Marco Island)