Beaches for Shelling in Florida

Love the thrill of spotting nature’s little treasures along the shoreline? I do too—and Florida is full of places where I’ve spent quiet mornings with my eyes on the sand, finding shells I never expected. These top beaches for shelling in Florida offer soft sands, clear waters, and some of the most rewarding shell-hunting I’ve experienced in the Sunshine State.

Highlights:

• I always start with Sanibel Island—especially Bowman’s Beach. It’s world-famous for a reason. I’ve found everything from tiny augers to perfect conchs there, and the "Sanibel Stoop" is real—you’ll see everyone bending low with excitement.
• If I’m looking for sand dollars or the occasional conch, I head to Lovers Key State Park near Fort Myers Beach. It’s peaceful, and I’ve had some of my best finds right after low tide.
• Cayo Costa is a true adventure—accessible only by boat or ferry—but the secluded, shell-covered shores are totally worth it. I’ve gone early in the morning and felt like I had the whole beach to myself.
• When I want calm and quiet, I stroll through Barefoot Beach Preserve in Naples. The shelling’s solid, and the setting is so peaceful I often lose track of time out there.
• For a mix of shelling and birdwatching, Tigertail Beach on Marco Island is my pick. I’ve spotted some truly unique shells there—and the wading birds are a beautiful bonus.