8 Best Beaches for Shell Collecting (By Region) – Find Rare & Beautiful Shells!
Have you ever walked along the beach and spotted a rare, colorful seashell? Some beaches are world-famous for their stunning shell collections—like Sanibel Island, where you can find the rare Junonia shell!
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 8 beaches for shell collecting across different regions, when to visit, and what treasures you might discover. Let’s Explore…..
a. Best Beaches For Shell Collecting in North America
1. Florida: Sanibel Island seashell capital of the world
Sanibel Island is known as the seashell capital of the world! it is among the best beaches for seashells in Florida. Thanks to its unique east-west orientation, the island collects tons of shells from the Gulf of Mexico and must explore the Sanibel stoop. Some popular finds include:
- Lightning whelks – Spiral-shaped shells with a left-handed twist.
- Junonia shells – are rare and highly prized by collectors due to their distinctive spotted pattern and deep-sea origin. These beautiful shells, belonging to the Scaphella junonia species, are rarely found intact on beaches, making them a treasured find for shell enthusiasts.
- Olive shells – are smooth, elongated, and glossy, resembling polished stones. They come in various colors and patterns, often featuring intricate markings. These shells belong to the Olive snail family (Olividae) and are commonly found burrowing in sandy beaches.
Best time to visit: Right after a storm or during low tide.
2. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas – A Beachcomber’s Dream!
Padre Island National Seashore is a paradise for beachcombers! Stretching over 60 miles, the best shell collecting spots are Malaquite Beach and Big Shell Beach. It offers a variety of shells, such as:
- Scallop shells are brightly colored and fan-shaped, often featuring ridged patterns. They come in shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow. These bivalve shells are commonly found along sandy shores and are prized by collectors for their symmetrical beauty.
- Sand dollars are flat, round sea urchins that resemble large coins. Their bleached white skeletons, known as “tests,” often wash up on beaches. Sand dollars alive are covered in tiny, velvety spines and are usually found burrowed in sandy ocean floors.
- Murex shells are spiky, beautifully patterned shells known for their intricate ridges and unique shapes. These carnivorous sea snail shells come in various colors and were historically used to produce royal purple dye. They are often found in tropical and subtropical waters.
Pro tip: Bring a small mesh bag to carry your treasures!
b. Best Shell Collecting Spots in Europe
1. United Kingdom: Shell Beach, Herm
Located on the tiny island of Herm in the Channel Islands, this beach is covered with millions of tiny shells. You can find:
- Money Cowrie shells are small, smooth, and glossy, often featuring vibrant colors and patterns. Their polished, porcelain-like appearance makes them popular in jewelry and decorations. These shells have been used as currency in ancient cultures and are commonly found in warm tropical waters.
- Periwinkle shells are tiny, spiral-shaped shells that come in shades of purple, pink, and brown. These hardy marine snails are commonly found on rocky shores and tidal pools, where they graze on algae and contribute to coastal ecosystems.
Periwinkles play a vital role in coastal ecosystems by grazing on algae.
Fun fact: This beach gets its name because it’s almost entirely made of shells instead of sand!
2. Netherlands: Texel Island
Texel Island in the North Sea is famous for its rich marine life and seashells. Expect to find:
- Razor shells – Long and thin, resembling old-fashioned razors.
- Cockle shells – Ridged and heart-shaped, often seen in seafood dishes.
Best season: Winter and early spring, when storms wash up fresh shells.
c. Beachcombing in Australia
1. Queensland: Ellis Beach
Ellis Beach, near the Great Barrier Reef, is a seashell collector’s dream. Some shells you might find include:
- Cone shells – Beautiful but beware; some contain venom!
- Turban shells – Thick, spiral shells that look like tiny hats.
Pro tip: Always check if shells are empty before taking them home.
You can read my other best blog about 11 Outrageous Coral Reef Facts That Will Change How You See the Ocean
2. Western Australia: Shark Bay for Shell Hunting
Shark Bay is home to Shell Beach, one of the few places on Earth made entirely of shells! Instead of sand, you’ll walk on:
- Fragum cockle shells – Tiny white shells that cover the beach for miles.
What’s unique? Unlike most beaches, these shells are so thick that they form a natural pavement!
d. Asia: Best Seashell Beachcombing
1. Philippines: Panglao Island
Panglao Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Common finds include:
- Nautilus shells – Large, spiral shells with a pearl-like interior.
- Spindle shells – Long and narrow, often seen in warm tropical waters.
Best time to visit: Early morning when the tide is low.
Suggested Read: 6 Free Shell Identification Apps
2. Thailand: Railay Beach
This stunning beach in Thailand isn’t just great for rock climbing—it’s also perfect for shell hunting! You might come across:
- Volute shells – Smooth, cylindrical, and covered in pretty patterns.
- Conch shells – Large and often used as decorative pieces.
Remember: Some shells are protected by law, so check local regulations before collecting.
How to Get Started with Shell Collecting
Want to start your own seashell collection? Here are some simple steps:
➊ Choose the right beach. Visit places known for great shelling, especially after storms.
➋ Bring the right gear. A small mesh bag, a shovel, and water shoes help a lot!
➌ Look during low tide. This is when the best shells are uncovered by the waves.
➍ Handle shells with care. If a shell has a living creature inside, put it back in the ocean.
➎ Clean your shells properly. Soak them in warm water and gently scrub off any debris. Read my detailed blog How to Clean Seashells Like a Pro [12 Bonus Tips
FAQs About Shell Collecting
Conclusion
Shell collecting is an amazing way to enjoy the beach, learn about marine life, and bring home unique souvenirs. No matter where you are in the world, there’s a perfect shelling beach waiting for you. So grab a bucket, hit the shore, and start your collection!
Which of these beaches have you visited? Share your favorite shelling spots in the comments! If you love shell collecting, check out our guide on How to Identify Different Types of Seashells.
