Shelling

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are famous throughout the world for their excellent shelling beaches. Because of the islands' east-west geographic orientation, the beaches collect shells that have been stirred up after storms. Tides push the shells up onto the beach where avid collectors can find many different types of shells.

Low tide is generally the best time to hunt for seashells. More beach is exposed, so there is more area to cover … and potentially more shells to find! Also, a new or a full moon tends to cause a lower low tide, so even more beach is available for shelling. For a current tidal chart, click here.

We suggest that you wear sandals or shelling shoes while you're walking on the beach or in the water. The footwear will protect your feet from the shells' sharp edges and will also protect you from small stingrays that live in shallow water. The stingrays will not harm you if you walk near them, but if you accidentally step on one, you may experience a small sting. For that reason, we also suggest that you "shuffle" your feet while walking in the water.

Sanibel is home to the famous Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, located at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road. The museum is open from 10am - 4pm from Tuesday through Sunday. The entrance fee is $5 per adult, $3 per child aged 8-16 and free for children aged 7 and under. For more information on the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, click here.