Florida’s Captiva and Sanibel Islands are home to the best shelling beaches in North America. But, what makes the beaches so unique for discovering treasures from the sea? The island is protected by a broad underwater shelf, making it the perfect landing zone for shells from the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel Island shelling is a fun and free activity the whole family can enjoy when visiting Fort Myers Beach. Fort Myers Beach and our Edison Beach House offer a convenient gateway city to everything Captiva and Sanibel Island offer. Search for over 250 kinds of seashells and find the perfect souvenir at the beach!
Captiva & Sanibel Island Shelling Beaches
Sanibel and Captiva Islands have around 15 miles of beaches to choose from for shelling. Smaller shells can be found by Lighthouse Beach, while large shells can be found near the north end of Captiva. Here are a few of the top shelling beaches:
Beware of Live Shells!
It is illegal to collect live shells in Florida, so you must know what to look for to avoid bringing back any live specimens. There are two types of shells on Sanibel Island, including single shell gastropods and bivalves with two hinged parts of the shell. A good rule of thumb is that if there is a hardcover over the opening, then someone is home! If sand dollars are gray and spiny, they are alive and should be left alone. Other species like sea stars and sea urchins are also protected on Sanibel Island.
Tips for Shelling
After finding the ideal Sanibel Island shelling beach, you may be wondering what’s next. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind before looking for seashells during your Florida vacation:
- Low tide offers the optimal time to go shelling on Sanibel Island. Refer to the Sanibel Tide Chart to find the ideal time to hit the beach. We’ll give you a hint; the earlier, the better!
- Bring a bucket, net bag, and scoop to find and keep your favorite seashells.
- Digging for shells near the water’s edge can reap some fantastic rewards!
- Wear shoes to protect your feet and shuffle across the sand to find shells.
- Look like a local and master the “Sanibel Stoop” and the “Captiva Crouch.”
- Once you have found the best shells on the beach, take them back to your room for cleaning. The best method is to soak your shells in a 50/50 water and bleach solution.
Florida Hotels in Fort Myers Beach
Plan a day trip to Captiva and Sanibel Islands when you vacation with Edison Beach House in Fort Myers Beach. We offer a fantastic location to access the Sanibel Island shelling beaches during your Florida getaway. Escape to your own private paradise at our oceanfront hotel and end the day with a breathtaking tropical sunset. Find the perfect seashell on our Florida beaches and take home the perfect souvenir from your getaway!
