For many beachgoers, the thrill of discovering seashells is an important part of the coastal experience. The United States, with its vast coastlines, offers numerous beaches where shell enthusiasts can indulge in their passion.
From the Gulf Coast to the Eastern Seaboard, here are 25 of the best beaches for shell collecting in the U.S.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is often called the shelling capital of North America, thanks to its east- west orientation that catches shells from the Caribbean. The beaches here are a treasure trove of conchs, whelks, and sand dollars.
Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Part of the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island’s remote location means fewer crowds and more shells. Lucky beachcombers might find Scotch bonnets, the state shell of North Carolina.
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Galveston Island, Texas
Galveston’s 32 miles of beaches offer plenty of opportunities for shell collecting. East Beach and West Beach are particularly good spots for finding lightning whelks and moon snails.
Bandon, Oregon
While not known for quantity, Bandon’s beaches offer unique finds like bull kelp, Japanese glass floats, and agates. The best shelling is often after winter storms have churned up the ocean floor.
Shipwreck Beach, Lanai, Hawaii
This remote beach on Lanai’s north shore is known for its abundance of shells and colorful sea glass. The powerful currents bring in a wide variety of shells from across the Pacific.
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Cumberland Island, Georgia
This undeveloped barrier island offers 18 miles of pristine beaches for shell collecting. Visitors might find whelks, sand dollars, and even fossilized shark teeth.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, Maryland
While not a traditional beach, the shoreline at Calvert Cliffs is famous for its fossil shells and shark teeth. The cliffs erode constantly, revealing new treasures with each visit.
Shell Beach, La Jolla, California
True to its name, Shell Beach in La Jolla is a hot spot for shell collectors. The beach is known for its variety of small shells and sea glass.
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Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
Tunnels Beach offers a mix of Hawaiian cowries, cone shells, and the prized Kahelelani shells. The beach’s coral reefs also provide a habitat for a diverse array of mollusks.
Flag Ponds Nature Park, Maryland
Another great spot for fossil hunters, Flag Ponds Nature Park offers opportunities to find ancient shells and shark teeth. The best time to visit is after storms when new fossils are exposed.
Stinson Beach, California
Located north of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is known for its sand dollars and moon snail shells. The long, wide beach provides ample space for beachcombing.
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Dauphin Island, Alabama
This barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico is a shell collector’s paradise. The west end of the island is particularly good for finding a variety of shells, including lightning whelks and cockles.
Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
With 70 miles of undeveloped beach, Padre Island offers plenty of space for shell hunting. The area is known for its diversity of shells, including rare finds like the Scotch bonnet.
Ft. Clinch State Park, Florida
Located on Amelia Island, Ft. Clinch State Park’s beaches are excellent for shell collecting. Visitors can find shark teeth, sand dollars, and a variety of other shells.
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
While known more for its tourist attractions, Myrtle Beach can be surprisingly good for shell collecting. Early morning low tides are the best time to search for whelks, olive shells, and scallops.
Coronado Beach, California
Coronado Beach, near San Diego, is known for its golden sand and abundant seashells. The north end of the beach is particularly good for finding intact shells.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May’s beaches offer a variety of shells, including knobbed whelks, moon snails, and scallops. The Cove Beach is a favorite spot among local shell collectors.
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Drakes Beach, California
Part of Point Reyes National Seashore, Drakes Beach is known for its sand dollars and moon snail collars. The beach’s remote location means less competition from other collectors.
Lovers Key State Park, Florida
Once accessible only by boat, Lovers Key now offers easy access to prime shell- collecting beaches. The park is known for its variety of shells, including fighting conchs and lightning whelks.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Located near Charleston, Folly Beach offers good shelling opportunities, especially after storms. Visitors might find whelks, olive shells, and even fossilized shark teeth.
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Pawleys Island, South Carolina
This barrier island is known for its ‘arrogantly shabby’ charm and excellent shelling. The best spots are often at the island’s north and south ends.
Mustang Island, Texas
Mustang Island’s 18 miles of beaches offer plenty of opportunities for shell collecting. The area is known for its abundance of sand dollars and lightning whelks.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Known as ‘Savannah’s Beach,’ Tybee Island offers good shelling, especially at its north end. Knobbed whelks, olive shells, and cockles are common finds.
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Wildwood, New Jersey
Wildwood’s wide beaches are great for shell collecting, especially in the off-season. The area is known for its variety of clam shells, scallops, and occasional whelks.
Kice Island, Florida
This undeveloped barrier island near Naples is a shell collector’s dream. Accessible only by boat, its beaches offer pristine shelling opportunities with less competition.
Which Shell-Collecting Spot Will You Explore?
These beaches represent some of the best shell-collecting spots in the United States, each providing its special treasures. Whether searching for rare specimens or simply enjoying the meditative act of beachcombing, these locations provide endless opportunities for shell enthusiasts.
Remember to check local regulations, as some areas have restrictions on shell
collecting to protect the environment.
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