16 Best Shelling Beaches in Florida You Should Visit

1. Sanibel Island

[Please note: Due to Hurricane Ian, visits to Sanibel Island are not recommended at this time. To learn more about Hurrican Ian recover efforts you can visit MySanibel for more information]

Photo Credit: Travlinmad

Just off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida on the shimmering Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State lies the island of Sanibel, a barrier island cut in two by a hurricane decades ago, separating it from Captiva Island by a narrow inlet that flows from the Gulf of Mexico.

Sanibel Island is the kind of island you seek for a laid-back and sandy tropical vacation where kids play in the surf and adults follow suit.

There are gorgeous white sand beaches, and some of the best beaches for shelling on Sanibel are still-undiscovered gems. In fact, Sanibel is known as the Shelling Capital of the US for the thousands of colorful seashells that wash up on its shores each day.

You’ll find many beautiful beach shells on Lighthouse Beach before the sky lights up at the end of the day with a fiery sunset. You won’t find high rise hotels or glitzy nightclubs on Sanibel.

In fact, buildings and hotels on the island cannot be higher than the surrounding palm trees, so most of the scenery is obscured by nature trails and trees.

The charming Sanibel Inn is located right on the beach and offers a perfect island stay. Go early or after a good storm, do the Sanibel Stoop and scoop up handfuls of delicate gifts like sea glass and shells from the sea. They’re the perfect souvenir of your Florida vacation.

There is a reason why Sanibel Island is one of the best beaches for shells in Florida.

Submitted By Lori from Travlinmad

2. Marco Island

[Please note: Due to Hurricane Ian, visits to Marco Island are not recommended at this time. To learn more about Hurrican Ian recovery efforts you can visit the City of Marco Island website for more information]

Photo Credit:  Tina Nord from Pexels

Marco Island is located on the gulf coast of Florida near Naples. And it is a shell enthusiast's dream.

There is a reason why Marco Island tops the list of the best Florida beaches for shelling in Florida along with Sanibel Island.

Marco Island beach shelling attracts so many visitors because not only can you find some of the most amazing shells Florida has to offer, but the island itself is home to some of the most beautiful and best shelling beaches in Florida.

Looking for more amazing places to visit in the US. Check out our list of places to visit in the United States.

In addition, Marco Island is the epitome or luxury and perfect for those looking for a resort style vacation with all the amenites.

If you are visiting for the day start off with a morning at Tigertail Beach. Here you will find a wide array of amazing San Marco Island, FL shells include exotic shells such as the junonia shells. While very hard to find if you are looking for them this is the place to keep your eye out for it.

After a day of Florida shelling head on over to one of the many spots where you can get a bite to eat while watching the sunset over the gulf.

Visitors Tip: There are two public access points on Marco Island Beach. Head to the South beach access point. South beach is less popular which means you won't have as many crowds. South beach also has some of the best opportunities for shelling on the island.

3. Panama City Beach-Shell Island

Photo Credit: Jan Haerer from Pixabay

Located just south of Panama City, Shell Island is an undeveloped barrier island that is a great spot to visit for shell enthusiasts or just someone looking for an alternative to Panama City beach.

Shell Island is located off the gulf coast and is only accessible by boat. Therefore it makes for a great day trip. The barrier island is 7 miles long and is part of a reserve so facilities are limited.

However there is plenty to do from shelling to enjoying the beautiful sandy beaches.

For those that are interested in shelling you will need to make your way about 5-10 minutes across the island from where the ferry drops you off. This is where you will start to see the colorful shells that give this island it's name.

If you really want to find some of the prettiest shells visitors recommend wading into the water where you will find shells intact. You may want to pack your snorkel gear. (I love this set from Amazon).

Just remember if you choose to take the shells away make sure that they do not contain live animals.

Where to Stay in Panama City

Check out the Hyatt Place Panama City Beach. You can find rates and availability for the Hyatt Place Panama City here.

You can find rates and availability for other places to stay in Panama City here.

4. Caladesi Island State Park

Located in Dunedin, Florida on the gulf coast of Florida, Caladesi Island State Park is the perfect spot for shelling enthusiasts.

A visit to Caladesi Island is a great day trip for the whole family. While you enjoy shelling the rest of the family can go kayaking or just spend a lazy day on the beach.

The island is accessible only by boat which makes it a prime place to visit if you're looking to avoid the crowds.

The island is also a State Park and is protected with means that these beaches are virtually untouched and in their natural state. Being one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in the state of Florida it is definitely a must-visit.

While exploring the island you will find plenty of shells that have washed up to shore. Sometimes in piles even. It is dependent on the time of year as well as the tide.

However if you wade into the water here is where you will find some gems. However please proceed with caution and make sure that you are not picking shells with live organisms which not only is illegal but can cause harm to the ecosystem as well as the living organisms themselves.

6. Barefoot Beach Preserve

[Access to Barefoot Beach Preserve is currently closed. Please visit the Collier County Parks website for up-to-date information.]

Barefoot Beach, one of the few undeveloped barrier islands still remaining in Florida is the perfect spot to go shelling in southwest Florida.

Easily accessible by car Barefoot Beach is a great option for those that do not want to worry about access or jumping on a ferry.

From Shark's Eye to Worm Shells there are so many good finds at Barefoot Beach.

Because it is not as popular as the neighboring Sanibel Island, Barefoot beach makes for a great alternative on the gulf coast. In the mornings you can have the island mostly to yourself. And this where you find some of the most amazing shells.

7. Venice Beach

Photo Credit: MaineCoast from Pixabay

A list of best shelling beaches in Florida would not be complete without a mention of Venice Beach.

Located on the gulf side of Florida, Venice Beach attracts visitors who are on the hunt for shark teeth.

Yes. You read that right. Shark teeth. Venice Beach is considered the shark tooth capital of the world. They even have a shark tooth festival every year in the spring.

Most people are unable to spot these shark teeth initially. It's probably because when you think teeth you think white or off white triangular shapes. However, these fossilized shark teeth are commonly brownish or black which can make them sometimes hard to find.

Once you find one, you will find dozens.

Where to Stay in Venice Beach

Check out the Inn at the Beach. You can find rates and availability for Inn at the Beach here.

You can find rates and availability for other places to stay in Venice Beach here.

8. Flagler Beach

Photo Credit: Moyer Memoirs

The quiet relaxing shore on Flagler Beach is perfect for shelling. This beautiful beach is located on the east coast of Florida in the middle of St. Augustine. It is just north of Daytona Beach but with less tourists.

As the surf rolls out and deposits the empty seashells, you are likely to be the only one searching for those treasures. The beach stretches out for 6 miles on a flat, sandy, clean incline, gradually meeting the ocean.

The city of Flagler Beach is home to many waterfront open-air restaurants, shops, and a long fishing pier.

As far as accommodations, I definitely recommend that you try out the Beverly Beach Camptown for beachfront camping in your motorhome right on Flagler Beach.

They have many spots along the shoreline, so you will have to step right out of your camper, descend down the short beach access stairway, and you will be wading in the cool ocean water in seconds.

The RV resort is very pet-friendly so you can bring along your best friend to play in the waves too.

Not a fan of camping? They also have cute little cabins that you can rent.

Each morning, you can sip your coffee watching the surf and then walk along the shore in search of abandoned shells.

After you responsibly collect your souvenir shells from the beach, if you decide to take them home you can make awesome seashell crafts to display and remind yourself of the fun beach vacation you had at Flagler Beach.

Submitted By Michelle from Moyer Memoirs

9. Mickler’s Beach

Photo Credit: Buddy The Traveling Monkey

Mickler’s Landing Beachfront Park is one of the best shelling beaches in Florida. This public beach is a favorite amongst locals and it’s easy to see why. It has beautiful pink, coquina-sand and of course, plenty of shells.

Mickler’s Beach is also a great place to search for shark’s teeth. The best times to search are at low tide or right after a storm.

Located on the east coast about 30 minutes north of historic St. Augustine, Mickler’s Beach is a great place to spend the day.

We really enjoyed our time there. It wasn’t overly crowded and walking up and down the beach looking at shells was really fun.

We also liked that Mickler’s Beach had really nice facilities. There is plenty of parking available and there are bathrooms and outdoor showers. There are benches and picnic tables as well as a handicapped-accessible walkway from the parking area to the beach.

You can also bring your furry companion to the beach, but they have to stay on a leash and you have to clean up after them.

We recommend basing yourself in St. Augustine as it’s just a short drive away and there are plenty of attractions to see there too. The St George Inn is a very popular place to stay and it’s within walking distance of museums, shops, and restaurants.

Submitted By Vicky from Buddy The Traveling Monkey

Where to Stay near Mickler’s Beach

Check out the St George Inn. You can find rates and availability for St George Inn here.

You can find rates and availability for other places to stay near Mickler’s Beach here.

10. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island, located on the gulf coast of Florida is not only one of the prettiest beaches in Florida. It is also a great place to find sand dollars.

They are everywhere.

When wading into the warm crystal clear water you can sometimes see them right from where you are standing.

However, these beauties are there to be admired. Sand dollars are living creatures therefore they should not be removed. Especially if you find them in the water.

Where to Stay in Anna Maria Island

Check out the Anna Maria Island Inn. You can find rates and availability for Anna Maria Island Inn here.

You can find rates and availability for other places to stay in Anna Maria Island here.

11. Fort De Soto Beach

Photo Credit: Paul Brennan from Pixabay

Fort De Soto Beach, located just outside of Tampa, Florida is a great places to visit for shelling.

There are several beaches at Fort De Soto however you will find amazing shells such as lightning whelk shells as well as sand dollars specifically in North Beach. Here the sand dollars wash up to the shore or you can find them in the tidal pools. However make sure that they are not live. You cannot take anything that is live off the beach.

Please note that a telltale sign of a sand dollar that is not live is it is dried and turns a sun-bleached white color. You want to make sure to inspect it carefully and thoroughly if you decide to take these away.

We personally prefer to find them and admire them but usually leave them behind once we done for the day.

In addition to shelling, there is plenty to do at Fort De Soto. You can go kayaking or spend some time exploring the Island on the more than 7 miles of paved trails.

Where to Stay in near Fort De Soto

Check out the Inn on the Beach. You can find rates and availability for Inn on the Beach here.

You can find rates and availability for other places to stay near Fort De Soto here.

12. Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park located in Dunedin, Florida, is an ideal Florida shelling beach for those looking to appreciate the natural beauty of the Sunshine State. The beach is never overcrowded and offers plenty of peaceful retreats away from crowds of people.

Additionally, any sand-dwellers will be delighted to find a plethora of seashell varieties scattered all over the shore. Moreover, with a quiet stretch of coast that runs across from the serene Caladesi Island State Park, there are enough opportunities to venture away from more populated areas and discover hidden gems nestled between clusters of coral.

For shell collectors, Honeymoon Island truly elevates the experience.

Bonus: Take a ferry to neighboring Caladesi Island. One of the most beautiful islands in Florida.

14. Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island

Amelia Island, Florida is a great place to visit for any beach lover. Here you will find Fernandina Beach with some of the best shelling in Florida.

With its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it's no wonder why so many people flock here each year. Along with the great scenery, there are plenty of sea creatures waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.

Situated in the northeast corner of Florida on the Atlantic coast Amelia Island and specifically Fernandina Beach is a top shelling favorite of many beachcombers. To make the most of the experience, plan your visit around low tide as it's when you'll be able to find some of nature's greatest gems.

During your visit to Fernandina Beach be on the lookout for sand dollars, slipper shells, great heart cockles, olives, lightning whelks, and Baby's Ear Moon snails.

15. Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach, situated on the tranquil Gulf of Mexico, is a great spot to find beautiful shells. Spanning an impressive 7 miles long, this serene beach has something to offer all visitors.

Anyone looking for a fantastic shelling experience should consider planning a trip in May through September – these months provide the perfect conditions for visitors who have their eyes peeled for dolphins and, of course, lovely shells.

Be sure to keep an eye out for special finds when visiting Fort Myers Beach!

16. Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park in Florida is the perfect place to get some sun, stunning views, and a good hunt for seashells! Sand Key's shoreline not only offers tremendous opportunity to enjoy clear turquoise waters, brilliant white sand beaches and the warm Florida sun; it also provides visitors with amazing shelling opportunities.

Sand Key's abundant shelling provides folks of all ages with a chance to find shells such as turkey wing shells and tulip banded shells along the shore. And don't forget the beautiful sunsets that Sand Key Park has to offer – there's nothing quite like watching a magical sunset on one of Florida's best shelling beaches.

Things You Should Know Before You Go Shelling

Is it Illegal to Take Shells from the Beach in Florida?

While it is not illegal to collect shells from the Beach in Florida, there are limitations for those that chose to collect sea shells.

You can read more about the rules for recreational sea shell collecting in Florida here.

However here is a summary.

• Removing shells with a live animal in it is illegal and can result in fines. This also includes sand dollars, starfish or any other sea life that you may come across.
• Removal of seashells in certain counties maybe strictly prohibited. Therefore if you plan on removing shells please make sure to check the rules for that specific county.

The Ethics of Florida Shelling

Is shelling harmful for the environment?

The short answer is it depends.

Studies like this one have shown that collecting shells to take away with you can be harmful to the ecosystem.

However, the other side of the argument is the amount of people and increase in tourism is to blame versus the actual act of shelling.

It pays to be educated and be informed. If you are unsure whether you should collect shells to take away or put back take a moment to read this article from The Guardian that also cites the same study.

Best Time To Go Shelling

The morning is the perfect time to go shelling. And ideally, if you are able to catch an A.M low tide that is even better.

In the mornings temperatures are cooler and there are less crowds. So chances are you will have the beach to yourself.

In the alternative if you are not able to get to the beach early try to time your visit with low tide.

What To Wear To Go Shelling

Any opportunity I have to dress for the occasion and you know I am there. but in this situation we want to be mindful of safety and comfort.

First, you should wear water shoes. Shells are sharp and you don't want to go at it barefoot. These water shoes come in all colors so you can match them up with your swimsuit.

Second, you want to wear or a hat or something to cover your head and face. The Florida sun is no joke and even though you may be near the shore and shuffling around in the water the reflection of the sun will cook you right up. So make sure to cover up.

Finally, wear sunscreen. If you don't listen to anything here then at the very least listen to that one piece of advice.

Types of Seashells You Can Expect to Find in Florida

The most common shell that people know about is the conch shells. While these shells are easily found in Florida harvesting Conch shells is illegal in the State of Florida so if you come across a conch shell it is best to admire them but do not plan on walking away with any.

The next most popular shells that you will see in Florida are Cockle Shells.

Sand dollars are also very popular in Florida. However please be careful. If you find a sand dollar in the water that is alive please put it back. It is not permitted to remove live animals from the habitat.

Other shells that you will come across are Junonia Shells (now quite rare), coquina shells and worm shells just to name a few.