The Best Florida Beach for Shell Collecting-What to Know Before You Go

If you’re one of the many Americans who pocket a seashell or two during a beach trip, you’re not alone. According to Beach.com’s national beach etiquette survey, shell collecting ranks as the third most commonly admitted “guilty” beach behavior. That said, it’s important to know that removing shells, especially those still occupied, can be harmful to coastal ecosystems and is illegal in many areas.

But there’s one spot where shelling is both legal and celebrated (as long as you follow the rules): Sanibel Island, Florida. As a Florida native, this small-town coastal gem is one of my favorite places to visit in the Sunshine State.

Just off the coast of southwest Florida, Sanibel Island is considered one of the best shelling destinations in the world. Unlike most barrier islands that run north-south, Sanibel has a unique east-west orientation, acting like a natural net for seashells brought in by Gulf currents. Combine that with its shallow offshore shelf and minimal development, and you’ve got beaches covered in colorful shells nearly year-round.

Over 250 species of shells wash up along the shores here, including everything from pastel coquinas to prized finds like the Junonia, Lightning Whelk, and Horse Conch. Its wide variety of shelling options has earned Sanibel its nickname as the “Shelling Capital of North America.”

Sanibel isn’t just about shelling—it’s shaped by it. Locals and tourists alike are known for their bent-over beach stance, dubbed the “Sanibel Stoop.” It’s how you’ll find most visitors, hovering over the sand with a bucket or mesh bag, scanning for tiny little treasures.

Shelling is such a part of island life in this coastal getaway that even the local museum is dedicated to it. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is the only one of its kind in the U.S., offering exhibits, identification tools, and even guided beach walks to help inspired shell collectors learn more.

Bowman’s Beach: This scenic, less-developed beach is a top pick for shellers, especially during low tide. Its wide shoreline and gentle surf make it a reliable place to spot Whelks, Olives, and Tulips.

Lighthouse Beach: Located at the eastern tip of the island, near Sanibel’s postcard-perfect lighthouse, this beach is known for coquinas, cockles, and even the elusive Junonia.

Blind Pass Beach: Found where Sanibel meets Captiva, Blind Pass Beach benefits from strong tides that leave various shells from both sides of the pass.

Turner Beach: On the Captiva side of Blind Pass, Turner Beach is another go-to for shell collectors and often sees a lot of action after storms.

Yes, you’re allowed to collect shells on Sanibel Island, but not all of them.

Thanks to local conservation efforts, Florida law prohibits the collection of any live shellfish within half a mile of the shore. That includes sand dollars, sea urchins, and sea stars, even if the animal appears inactive. Violators can face fines up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail.

Shelling is also completely prohibited in the waters of J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, one of the island’s most ecologically sensitive areas.

The local shelling community also encourages visitors to take only what they need, leaving the rest for wildlife and future beachcombers.

Sanibel is home to both bivalves (like clams and cockles) and gastropods (like conchs and tulips). Here are a few shells you might spot:

There’s even a term for the most common shells you will find when shelling: the Sanibel Six. It includes Whelk, Conch, Murex, Cone, Olive, and Tulip.