Since 1980 this pristine and unspoiled habitat has been managed by the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve to ensure the delicate ecosystem remains forever protected. Today the Florida Department of Environmental Protection owns 85% of the island with the remaining 15% being privately owned. In 1987, the Keewaydin Club building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places, but that distinction was short-lived when in 1992 the property was sold and the building torn down. Thankfully their efforts succeeded and we owe this beautiful sanctuary to them. In 1922, after a building was constructed on the north side of the island and the Camps began to fall on hard times, the Keewaydin Club on Key Island became a popular (and more profitable) winter destination for northerners escaping the cold and snow.ĭuring the ‘50s and ‘60s, several efforts at building a bridge and developing the island were thwarted by a growing group of local residents, who petitioned the government to stop construction and any future development on Keewaydin. Originally called Kee (Key) Island in the 1890s and through the turn of the century, Keewaydin Island FL operated as one of the original Keewaydin camps for boys across America at that time. That’s because the majority (over 80%) of Keewaydin remains undeveloped and just a few private homes can be seen shrouded by the low-lying trees and foliage.īy boat, the lat/long of Keewaydin is 26.0704° N, 81.7869° W. You can’t see it from most places you visit, and it’s hard to even appreciate the island from a boat - one lush mangrove cluster serenely fades into the next as you pass by - but this island near Naples Florida is one of the most natural places to see in southwest Florida.

Keewaydin Island is situated between Naples and Marco Island in Collier County on Florida’s southwest coast. If you click through and make a purchase we may earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

This article may contain affiliate links. Keewaydin FAQ: Important Stuff You Should Know This Gulf Coast barrier island hiding in plain sight is a rare gem that’s well worth a visit! Visiting Keewaydin is absolutely one of best things to do in Naples and Marco Island, and a rare opportunity to experience the spectacular nature this part of Florida has to offer. Surprisingly, it’s also the only pet-friendly beach in Naples and Marco Island, so understandably pets must always be kept on a leash to protect the nests and new hatchlings of birds and turtles. ItĮcologically, Keewaydin Island Florida is an important sanctuary and breeding ground for wildlife, most notably as a vital nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles. Plus, it’s main beach, Keewaydin Island Beach, is one of the best beaches in Naples - actually in all of Southwest Florida. With nearly eight miles of unspoiled and mostly deserted white sand beach, Keewaydin Island is part of the Ten Thousand Islands and only accessible by boat, which makes getting there part of the fun. Want a glimpse of Southwest Florida the way nature intended? Then a day trip to Keewaydin Island is in order - one of the best places to experience nature in southwest Florida!

Hidden islands in the sea