Ten Thousand Islands
The Ten Thousand Islands, located south of Marco Island on Florida’s southwest coast, is a vast archipelago of mangrove islands, backcountry waterways, tidal flats, and secluded beaches. Stretching from the Marco Island area toward the Lostmans River in Everglades National Park, this remarkable region is one of the best places in Florida for boating, paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing a quieter side of the Gulf coast. Despite the name, the area is made up of hundreds of islands and keys rather than a literal ten thousand, but it still feels immense, wild, and wonderfully remote.
Top Things to Do in the Ten Thousand Islands
- Explore by Boat
The Ten Thousand Islands are best experienced from the water. Guided cruises, private charters, rental boats, and paddling trips let visitors navigate mangrove-lined channels and broad coastal bays. Popular experiences include:- Scenic Cruises: Boat tours offer sweeping views of the islands and frequent chances to spot dolphins, wading birds, and other wildlife.
- Island Hopping: Some outings stop at remote beaches and shelling spots that are only accessible by water.
- Fishing Charters: Local captains can guide you into productive backwaters or offshore waters, depending on the season and conditions.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Paddling through the calm, shallow waters of the Ten Thousand Islands offers an immersive and peaceful way to explore the region. Highlights include:- Navigating through mangrove tunnels and winding tidal creeks.
- Observing birds, fish, crabs, and other wildlife at water level.
- Reaching quiet beaches and sandbars that larger boats may not access.
- Popular launch areas include Goodland and Caxambas Park on Marco Island, as well as the Everglades City area.
- Wildlife Watching
The Ten Thousand Islands provide important habitat for a wide variety of coastal wildlife. Visitors may see:- Dolphins and Manatees: Often seen in coastal waters, channels, and marina areas, especially in warmer months for manatees.
- Birdlife: Ospreys, bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, herons, egrets, ibis, pelicans, and shorebirds are among the highlights.
- Sea Turtles: Loggerhead and green sea turtles may nest on some Gulf-side beaches during nesting season.
- Reptiles: Alligators are more likely in nearby freshwater or brackish areas; always keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.
- Shelling and Beachcombing
Many islands feature quiet, sandy shorelines where visitors can enjoy shelling, beach walks, and picnics. Shelling can be excellent after tides and storms, but collection rules may vary by location, especially in protected areas, so check local regulations before taking shells or other natural items. - Fishing
The Ten Thousand Islands are a premier fishing destination, with opportunities that range from inshore sight-fishing to offshore trips. Common options include:- Backwater Fishing: Mangrove estuaries and flats can produce snook, redfish, tarpon, seatrout, and other inshore species.
- Nearshore and Offshore Fishing: Depending on weather and season, anglers may target snapper, grouper, kingfish, and more.
- Fly Fishing: The shallow waters and flats make this region especially appealing for sight-casting.
- Fishing guides and charters commonly depart from Marco Island, Goodland, Everglades City, and nearby marinas. A Florida fishing license may be required unless covered by a licensed charter.
- Camping on Remote Islands
For adventurous visitors, primitive backcountry camping is available in parts of the greater Ten Thousand Islands area, especially within Everglades National Park. Many sites require advance reservations or permits, and campers should be prepared for changing weather, insects, and very limited services.
Additional Activities
- Photography
The Ten Thousand Islands are a dream setting for landscape and wildlife photography. Sunrise and sunset light, mirror-like water, mangrove shorelines, and bird activity can make for especially memorable shots. - Guided Eco-Tours
Naturalist-led eco-tours add helpful context about the area’s ecology, history, and conservation importance. These trips are a great option for first-time visitors who want to learn while exploring. - Airboat Tours (Nearby)
Airboat rides are generally found in nearby inland Everglades and Big Cypress areas rather than in the mangrove backcountry itself, but they can complement a broader southwest Florida nature trip.
Amenities & Facilities
- Boat Ramps and Marinas:
- Caxambas Park (Marco Island): A major public access point with boat ramps, parking, and marina services.
- Goodland Boating Park: A popular launch site for small boats, kayaks, and guided outings.
- Everglades City and Chokoloskee: Key gateways to the southern portion of the Ten Thousand Islands, with marinas, outfitters, and tour operators.
- Guided Tours and Rentals:
Local outfitters offer sightseeing cruises, fishing charters, kayak rentals, paddlecraft launches, and eco-tours. Availability may change by season and weather. - Parking:
Parking is typically available at launch sites, parks, and marinas on Marco Island and around Everglades City, though fees and availability can vary. - Restrooms and Services:
Facilities are generally limited to access points and marinas. Once you are out on the water, services are minimal or nonexistent, so bring drinking water, sun protection, and any essentials you may need.
Accessibility
The Ten Thousand Islands are accessed primarily by boat, so accessibility depends heavily on the launch site, dock conditions, and tour operator.
- Boat Tours: Some operators may be able to accommodate visitors with mobility needs, but arrangements should be made in advance.
- Launch Areas: Accessibility features vary by marina, park, and boat ramp. Contact the specific facility ahead of time for current details.
Tips for Visiting the Ten Thousand Islands
- Bring Supplies: Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate gear. Facilities on the islands are extremely limited.
- Check the Tides: Tidal changes can affect navigation, depth, beach landings, and paddling conditions.
- Watch the Weather: Conditions can change quickly, especially during warmer months when afternoon storms are common.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance, do not feed wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Plan Ahead: Tours, fishing charters, and rentals can fill up during peak travel periods, so advance reservations are a good idea.
- Use Reliable Navigation: Cell service can be inconsistent in remote areas. Boaters should carry updated charts, safety gear, and know local conditions.
Vicinity of Ten Thousand Islands
Nearby Attractions
- Marco Island: Known for beaches, resorts, dining, and easy access to boating and guided tours.
- Everglades National Park: A vast protected landscape offering visitor centers, backcountry adventures, paddling routes, and exceptional wildlife viewing.
- Goodland: A small fishing village with waterfront restaurants, marinas, and a laid-back Old Florida atmosphere.
- Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve: A nearby preserve known for birdwatching, educational programs, kayaking, and scenic coastal habitats.
Why Visit the Ten Thousand Islands?
The Ten Thousand Islands offer one of Florida’s most memorable wilderness experiences. With sprawling mangrove forests, abundant birdlife, quiet beaches, and miles of navigable backcountry water, the region rewards visitors who want to slow down and explore. Whether you are booking a fishing charter, paddling through mangrove creeks, searching for dolphins, or simply enjoying the sense of remoteness, the Ten Thousand Islands deliver a distinctive glimpse of wild southwest Florida.
Official information: Everglades National Park – Boating in the Ten Thousand Islands 
| Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
