Pearl Bay Chickee

This elevated wooden platform overlooks Pearl Bay's open waters, with railings on multiple sides and a chemical toilet. The open design minimizes mosquitoes while offering starlit reflections on still water—dolphins hunt here at midnight. Wheelchair accessible with water-access steps designed for paddlers with disabilities.

Access & viewing

GPS Coordinates: 25.2595317739, -80.8561941315
Accessibility: Platform has railings, wheelchair-accessible design, water-access steps. Entry via floating dock. Large chemical toilet accessible from platform.

Conditions & safety

Permits Required: 1

Planning advice

Nearby Attractions: Hells Bay Chickee, Shark River Chickee, Whitewater Bay, Flamingo Marina, Plate Creek Chickee, Crooked Creek Chickee
Nearby Facilities: Flamingo: restrooms, fuel, supplies, boat rentals (45 miles by boat). Shark River Visitor Center: information, permits (25 miles).
Best Time To Visit: Full moon or moonless nights for stargazing; dawn and dusk for dolphin sighting
Tips Advice: Stay back from platform edges in wind.
Check weather before multi-day expedition.
Bring repair kit for boat/kayak.
Alligators hunt at dawn/dusk—stay alert.
Platform is exposed; sunscreen essential.
Observe wildlife from distance (50+ feet minimum).
Water levels vary by tide—plan paddling accordingly.
Insider Tips: Starlight reflects hugely on still water on moonless nights—bring telescope or binoculars for stars.
Tides are significant; plan paddling around tidal flow.
Bring plenty of water (no potable water available).
Winter paddling safer and more comfortable than summer.
Alligators common but shy; observe from distance.
Chemical toilet well-maintained; pack out all waste.

More details

Park Area: Ten Thousand Islands / Whitewater Bay area
Family Friendly Notes: Suitable for families experienced in multi-day paddling. Not recommended for young children without constant water-based supervision. Older kids (8+) comfortable in kayaks can participate.
Attraction Type: Backcountry Camping Platform
Distance From Entrance: 45+ miles from Shark River Visitor Center via paddling; 15-20 miles via Hell's Bay Canoe Trail
Accessibility Level: Intermediate to advanced paddling required (multi-day backcountry expedition)
How To Get There: Accessible by boat, canoe, or kayak from Whitewater Bay (boat launch near Flamingo or Shark River). Alternatively, via Hell's Bay Canoe Trail (kayak/canoe only; white PVC poles mark trail from park road trailhead). Multi-day paddling expedition required.
Entry Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (7-day pass). Backcountry camping permits free but require advance reservation.
Main Features: Elevated wooden platform, railings, chemical toilet, water-access steps, open design, bay location
What Youll See: Open bay water, mangrove shorelines, starlit reflections, dolphins, wading birds (herons, egrets, ibises), sunset colors, clear night sky
Safety Considerations: Bay exposed to tides, wind, and weather with no shelter. Afternoon thunderstorms common May-October. Paddling skill essential—water competency required for multi-day expedition. Lightning risk during storms. Saltwater/brackish environment. Platform edges require caution in wind.
Photo Opportunities: Moonlit bay water reflections, dolphins at sunrise/sunset, star photography, silhouetted mangroves at dusk
Stargazing Quality: Excellent—minimal light pollution, open water provides unobstructed sky view
Visitor Center Present: 0
Restrooms Available: 1
Restroom Type: Vault/Composting (chemical toilet)
Interpretive Signs: 0
Water Available: 0
Guided Tours Available: 0
Nearby Services: Flamingo has full services (fuel, food, restrooms, accommodations). Hell's Bay trailhead has vault toilet only.
Common Wildlife: Dolphins, herons, egrets, ibises, tarpon, spotted seatrout, alligators
Best Wildlife Times: Dolphins most active dawn and dusk; wading birds throughout day
Winter Access: Typically accessible year-round by paddlecraft, but conditions most favorable October-April. Summer heat, humidity, and afternoon storms make paddling challenging.
Best Season: October to April (dry season, cooler, fewer mosquitoes)
Weather Patterns: Afternoon thunderstorms common May-October; winter squalls possible December-February. Hot and humid June-September. November-March coolest and driest. Lightning risk during storms.
Fishing Species: Tarpon, snook, spotted seatrout, various bass species, permit
Boating Allowed: 1

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this accessible for someone in a wheelchair?

Yes. The chickee has railings and dedicated water-access steps. Platform is accessible via floating dock entry. However, reaching it requires kayaking or paddling skill, or hiring an outfitter.

What should I do about mosquitoes?

The open-sided platform design minimizes bugs compared to land campsites. Dusk and dawn still see activity. Bring insect repellent, head nets, and long sleeves. October-April visits have far fewer mosquitoes.

Can I bring young kids?

Yes, with experience. The platform has railings but no full enclosure. Water access requires paddling skill. Not suitable for very young children without constant supervision. Older kids (8+) comfortable in boats/kayaks enjoy the trip.

What if weather turns bad while I'm there?

The open platform offers no weather protection. Afternoon thunderstorms are common May-October. You must paddle in changing conditions or shelter on the platform until weather clears. Winter is more stable. Require storm experience before booking.

Will I actually see dolphins?

Dolphins hunt Pearl Bay regularly, especially at dawn and dusk. Sightings are common but not guaranteed. The open platform provides excellent viewing. Keep distance of 50+ feet per park regulations.

Do I need a backcountry permit?

Yes. All backcountry camping in Everglades requires a free backcountry permit from the park. Reserve in advance, especially November-March when sites book quickly.

How many days does a paddling trip to Pearl Bay Chickee take?

From Shark River: 3-5 days depending on paddling pace and water conditions. From Hell's Bay Canoe Trail: 1-2 days. This is a multi-day expedition, not a day trip.