If you’re traveling to Florida, then it’s likely you’re planning to spend some time on the warm, sandy beaches that the Sunshine State is known for. Of course, one of the most memorable experiences at the beach is hunting for seashells. With over 1,300 miles of coastline, it can be daunting trying to figure out the best beaches in Florida for shelling, and likewise, for families. So, what are the best beaches in Florida for shells? And where exactly are they? To answer these questions, I’ve teamed up with some of Florida’s top travel bloggers. They’re sharing not only the best beaches in Florida for shells, but local hidden gems, rare shells, and local tips. Read on for everything you need to know before you go!
Best Beaches in Florida for Shells: What You Need to Know
While the laws and guidelines vary throughout state, country, and county, it is important to be aware of them prior to shelling.
In the state of Florida, seashell collecting is allowed as long as the shells do not contain a living organism.
There may be additional regulations depending on the location and type of shell being collected. For the complete guide to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s regulations, visit their website here.
Additionally, although it is largely accepted and legal, ethics should also be considered when shelling. Travel for Wildlife, a site dedicated to responsible travel, has a great guide to ethical shell collecting.
Remember that we share our beaches with other tourists, locals, and the wildlife who call it home.
In Florida, we have a saying: Leave nothing but your footsteps.
When preparing for your beach trip, remember to act responsibly and take anything back with you when you leave. For other ideas on helping our beaches, read about simple steps you can take to clean up the ocean, some without leaving your home.
1. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island in Southwest Florida has one of the best shelling beaches not just in the country, but in North America.
Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sanibel Island is just about three-hour drive from Tampa and makes a great weekend trip from the city. The curve shape and unique geography of the island has resulted in a variety of shells being continuously piled up on the beaches.
Shell lovers from all over the world visit here to add the beautiful and rare shells of Sanibel to their collection.
The beaches of Sanibel Island have about 300 species of shells and are a paradise for shell seekers and beachcombers.
We especially love the Lighthouse Beach. Here you will find the sand littered with shells of various colors, shapes, and types – some broken and some intact. Some of the popular shells on Sanibel Island include scallops, sand dollars, gastropods, and bivalves.
Sanibel Island is also home to Bailey Matthews Shell Museum, a museum devoted to the study of seashells and conches. A trip to this museum is must for seashell enthusiasts.
The museum exhibits beautiful sea shells found around the world, including the rare Junonia shell of Sanibel Island itself.
Tip: Sanibel Island’s best beaches for shelling include all Gulfside beaches.
Apart from the amazing Sanibel Island shells, the beach also has many wildlife refuge areas and is home to a variety of animals and birds, and is rich in hiking trails.
-Ketki // Dotted Globe
2. Navarre Beach
Located on the pristine Gulf Coast, Navarre Beach is a lesser-known beach paradise that remains one of the best beaches in Florida for shells.
Here, you’ll find white sandy beaches, crystal clear emerald waters, and miles of ocean without the crowds of tourists found elsewhere.
Thousands of seashells wash up on the shores of Navarre Beach every day. Additionally, the clear, calm waters make it perfect for spotting shells in the shallow waters.
Due to the fact that Navarre Beach, Florida is a hidden gem, the beach here offers plenty of shelling opportunities for everyone without the competition found elsewhere.
Best of all, Navarre beaches are also home to some of the most rare and beautiful species of shells in the state.
This includes the highly coveted Junonia shells. Other common finds here are sunray venus shells, worm snails, shark eye shells, tulip shells, scallops, the common American auger, and more.
Tip: Some of the best seashells at Navarre Beach wash up the morning after a storm.
Furthermore, Navarre Beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, and several species of fish.
Although it is a smaller town, Navarre is nestled between Pensacola and Destin, and offers plenty of activities and attractions nearby, making it an amazing destination for family-friendly vacations.
3. Marco Island
Growing up, everyone I knew was always talking about how the incredible beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel were the best beaches in Florida for shells.
While I agree that the shells there are definitely incredible and notewothy, it can be very difficult to find shells on those beaches. This is because so many people are there with the same goal as you: finding cool shells.
Did you know that most of the beaches along Southwest Florida’s coast have incredible shelling? My favorite hidden gem shelling beach is Marco Island’s Gulf-front South end.
Located only one hour south of the city of Fort Myers near Naples, Marco Island is a family-friendly, condo-studded island. On Marco, you can walk the shore while the Gulf of Mexico laps the sand and find a plethora of amazing shells.
In the past, Marco Island shelling has offered beautiful whelks, conchs, olives, angel wings, worm shells, and moon snails. In just about one hour, it’s possible to find shells that rival any Sanibel-seekers best collection.
Half-day shelling tours from Marco Island to the neighboring 10,000 islands offer even better shells. Here, the shelling prospects are out of this world! I’ve found some great shells there and even had friends who have found junonias, horse conchs, and other rare local shells.
Don’t pass up a chance to visit Marco Island if you are interested in shells and in Southwest Florida!
-Savannah // Savvy Dispatches
4. Barefoot Beach
Southwest Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico, is known for its beautiful beaches and great shelling. One of our favorite shelling beaches is Barefoot Beach.
Located in Bonita Springs, a small town situated between Naples and Fort Myers, it’s easy to see why Barefoot Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida for shells.
This beach is part of the Collier County Parks system and is located off of Bonita Beach Road, a few miles south down Barefoot Beach Blvd. The turn-off looks like you are going through a closed community of beautiful homes. However, if you are headed to the beach, you are permitted to pass through!
Tip: The fee to park here is $8 for non-county residents!
We always find great shells at Barefoot Beach and the water is perfect for swimming and boogey boarding. What my kids love is visiting the nature shack! Volunteer docents are on hand to teach kids about local wildlife and they always have crafts and videos available.
In addition to great shells, it is very likely you will find a loggerhead sea turtle at Barefoot Beach!
-Harmony // Momma to Go
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5. Crab Island
When thinking about the best beaches in Florida for shells, Crab Island is likely not one to show up on most people’s radars. Even many locals and born and bred Floridans are not aware of the existence of this closely-guarded spot.
Fortunately, it is that same rarity that makes Crab Island a top shelling location.
The gorgeous and unique experience that is Crab Island in Destin, Florida should be one everyone’s bucket list.
Waist-deep warm crystal waters and floating restaurants, stands, and bounce houses make it a fun place to spot tropical fish and wildlife in the sparking Gulf waters. However, just a short ways away is one of the best beaches in Florida for shells.
To get there, leave Crab Island and head towards the direction of Navarre Beach and Pensacola. Almost as soon as you exit Crab Island, you can see a small sand dune covered in long grass on the left-hand side. There may even be a few other boats or snorkeling tours parked here searching for shells.
Tip: You can leave Crab Island by boat, kayak, jet ski, or tour, but do not swim out. Many people have lost their lives attempting to do so and it is not worth the risk!
In about 2 – 3 feet of water just near the shore, be prepared to find some of the most stunning and unique shells in the area.
As mentioned previously, be sure to follow all rules and regulations regarding the wildlife. This area is full of hermit crabs. Therefore, it is important to ensure you are not disturbing any animals or their homes.
How to Clean Your Shells
Once you’ve visited at least one of the best beaches in Florida and gathered your shells, it will be time to clean and preserve them. Luckily, this is a simple task.
Since you’ve already ensured there are no animals or wildlife inhabiting your shell, the next step is to allow the shells to soak in water.
Add about one tablespoon of bleach to every gallon or so of water and allow to soak for a few hours.
Next, use an old toothbrush to scrub any dirt or tissue off of the shells, rinse, and dry.
Finally, spray the shells with a clear acrylic spray or rub baby oil on them for some shine.
From Florida’s Southern tips, off the coastline, and up in the Panhandle, these are the five best beaches in Florida for shells. Happy hunting!
Have you been to any on our list of best beaches in Florida for shells? Let us know in the comments below!
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spoonfulofsparkles says
I’ve only been to Florida once, but I loved it. I’ll have to remember this post if I ever go back. Thanks for sharing!
Christina says
Not sure what part of Florida you visited, but I definitely recommend a return trip if you’re able to make it! There is so much to do and see and lots of hidden gems across the state!
breakingsilver says
This is good daydreaming with Midwestern fall approaching. Great tips!
Christina says
Thank you! I’m from the Midwest so I remember the feeling well…Florida is a great place to visit when the winter blues start to hit!
Sheree says
This is such a great idea for a post, I like the thought of the best beaches for shells, I will definitely have to check them out the next time I am in Florida!
~xo Sheree
poshclassymom.com
Christina says
Thank you and I love to hear that! It’s interesting because here at Navarre Beach, we often get neighbors from beaches only 20 or 30 minutes away because their beaches don’t have any shells to be found!
Chelsea 🌴 (@chelseaoliviaxo) says
That’s cool that you’re allowed to collect them! They’re all so pretty!
Christina says
They are gorgeous, aren’t they? I also love how many different types and varieties you can find!
Carina says
I live in south florida and have yet to visit these places! Unfortunately I heard the algae problem ruined Sanibel, hoping it repairs soon!
Christina says
Oh no, I hadn’t heard about that! I hope so too!
Amanda says
Marco Island is VERY popular with Chicagoans so people always recommend it for Spring Break. We definitely need to add these beaches to our Spring Break bucket list.
Christina says
Definitely! I grew up in Chicago and remember our yearly trips to Florida. I never thought back then I’d be lucky enough to live here someday!
celeste wright says
I have never been to Florida but all these photos make it look so pretty!
Christina says
Florida is such a beautiful place and depending on where you go, it can look very different in some places! If you have the chance to come and visit, I highly recommend it, you won’t be disappointed!
amayszingblogs says
I’ve never visit Florida. but really hope that I will visit this place soon! I love the beaches. so perfect for vacation
Christina says
I completely agree! If you’re able to make the trip, I definitely recommend it! Florida is an amazing place!
Stine Mari says
So many beautiful beaches, and the shells are gorgeous too!
Christina says
Definitely, and makes Florida such a special place to live or travel!
Kasey Ma says
Awe this makes me miss home. I am from Fort Myers (Sanibel), and I haven’t been back in awhile. I do miss the beach a lot, but hopeful I will be able to visit for Thanksgiving!
Kasey Ma
thestylewright
Christina says
What an amazing place to grow up! I’m glad to hear that you should be back to visit soon. We are a military family so I know the feeling of being homesick well!
Renée ♥ says
I’ve been to Florida, but never to the beaches there. So many beautiful beaches to explore!
Christina says
Absolutely! With 1,300 miles of coastline, there is definitely a lot to see!
Val@thoughtfulneighbor.com says
I’ve heard great things about Sanibel Island. One more reason to plan a family vacay ther soon.
Christina says
Love to hear that! I grew up taking family vacations to the beach often and have always treasured those memories. Sanibel Island is also very kid-friendly!
healthyfitcouple.com says
We love Marco island and visit every year. It is our favorite beach.
Christina says
That’s awesome! I love hearing stories of families who have a special beach that they visit every year.
Elizabeth Edgar says
I live in Florida, Sarasota to be specific! I agree about finding the best seashells the morning after a storm! I’ve been to Sanibel Island but not others. I love Caspersen Beach because of their shark teeth!
Christina says
That’s awesome! Sarasota, Clearwater Beach, and Tampa are some of my favorite areas to visit. I haven’t been to Caspersen Beach yet but it’s on the list now. Thanks so much for sharing that tip!
Linda | Simply Healthyish says
You just made me want to travel to Florida like right now! Love the summer vibes there and how I wish we could do the same thing here.
Christina says
I love the endless summer vibes here too. It was 80 degrees and sunny today, it’s a perfect time to come and visit if you can!
Brianne says
Those beaches are beautiful and those shells are so cute! I had no idea Florida beaches offered so much shell collecting opportunities!
Christina says
It definitely depends on where you go, which is why I wanted to create this guide to help others!
Cindy Ingalls says
I was a total shell nerd as a kid. I would sit on the patio for hours cleaning and polishing my gigantic shell collection. I even had a book I would use to look up all the shell types.
Christina says
I probably would’ve been the same way had I grown up near the beach. That’s very cool!
zory says
Awww I love shells! I would love to go to all of these spots
Christina says
If you love shells, these are the places to go next time you’re in Florida!
Jeraldine Rumbaugh says
Florida is one of the most popular for its beaches, and its so wonder to see you have explore all the beaches. I wish to visit all those beaches and collect some beautiful shells , especially the navarre beach. Your guide will inspire all the adventure junkies. 🙂
Christina says
I feel blessed to have that opportunity. I am partial to Navarre Beach because it is home. If you are able to come and visit, I definitely recommend it. It is paradise!
Sherrie Payne says
We’re at Navarre Beach right now. We’ve always gone to Cape San Blas (for over 20 years), but obviously Hurricane Michael devastated it. We had already rented our house, but renter graciously returned our money. So a big hunt for another place like Cape San Blas – quiet, beaches not crowed, “nothing to do” except play on the beach. We found Navarre Beach as we worked our way east from Dauphin Island. I’m so glad we found this place! Cape San Blas has good shelling, but this place is absolutely amazing! I’ve never seen such a variety of shells – scallops and augers all over the place, as well as conchs,cones, whelks,
moon shells, periwinkles, bonnets, nauticas. and more! What a place! But we still like Cape San Blas. It’s a dog-friendly beach.
Christina says
Hurricane Michael was so devastating for that area, and I’m so sorry to hear what happened to Cape San Blas. I recently saw a video that showed it is now an island and I could hardly believe it, the difference of the before and after was so astounding! I’m so happy to hear that you found our little paradise though! There have been talks of making part of Navarre Beach or the sound dog-friendly as many of our residents would love to bring their dogs to the beach also! Hopefully that comes to fruition soon! In the meantime, so glad to hear you’re enjoying your time here and discovered the beautiful shells!
Don Swenson says
While the west coast has more good shelling beaches than the east coast, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any on that side of the state. It would have been more accurate, and less parochial, to have titled your article “The Five Best Beaches on the West Coast of Florida”.
Christina says
Hi Don, thank you for taking the time to leave a response! What beaches on our beautiful east coast might you recommend for shelling?
Chris Chase says
Sunset Beach on Treasure Island is also a great place for shelling. I go there every Saturday and find beautiful shells.
George says
Can you give a little better directions or gps coordinates as to where the spot is by crab island?
Kari says
Where’s the best place to go to find hermit crabs close to Pensacola Beach??