We love to find shells and put them on display or paint them to make Christmas ornaments or fun gifts.
Shelling and beach-going activities can be enjoyable and relaxing for the whole family, but following some best practices is important to ensure safety and protect the environment. Additionally, only collect empty shells, as taking live shells can harm local ecosystems. Here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Respect the environment: Be mindful of the natural habitat and wildlife when collecting shells. Avoid disturbing or damaging any plants, animals, or coral reefs.
2. Follow local regulations: Check with local authorities to see if there are any regulations regarding shelling or beach-going in the area. Some beaches may restrict the collection of shells.
3. Wear appropriate clothing: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. If you plan to go into the water, wear appropriate swimwear and consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from rocks or other hazards.
4. Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to all exposed skin, and reapply it often, especially after swimming or sweating.
5. Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and drink regularly to prevent dehydration.
6. Watch for hazards: Look for hazards on the beach, such as sharp shells or rocks, strong currents, or jellyfish.
7. Leave no trace: Pack out trash or debris, and don't disturb the natural environment by digging deep holes or building structures on the beach.
There are many beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida where you can collect shells.
Here are some options:
Honeymoon Island State Park: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
This park is located near Dunedin and is home to a beautiful beach with clear water and white sand. Shelling is allowed on the beach, and visitors can find a variety of shells, including conch and sand dollars.
Clearwater Beach: Clearwater Beach is a popular tourist destination with excellent shelling opportunities. Visitors can find a variety of shells here, including clam shells, coquinas, and scallop shells.
This section is of the beaches on Anna Maria Island. Most of the beaches have similar shells and are all easy to access and find shells.
Bean Point Beach - 799 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
A great place to find a variety of shells, including conch shells, sand dollars, and scallop shells.
Coquina Beach - Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Auger shells, moon snail shells, and cockle shells.
Manatee Beach - 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Reports of finding whelk shells, olive shells, and coquina shells.
Bayfront Park - 316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Bayfront Park is a smaller beach but a great place to find sand dollars and other small shells.
Bradenton Beach - Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Another beach where you can find lightning whelk shells, cockle shells, and coquina shells.
Siesta Key Beach: This beach is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, but it's also a great spot for shell collectors. The shells here include scallops, cockles, and augers.
948 Beach Road Sarasota, FL 34242
Lido Key Beach: Another popular beach in Sarasota, Lido Key, is known for its clear waters and diverse shells. The shells found here include conch shells, sand dollars, and moon snails.
400 Benjamin Franklin Drive Sarasota, FL
Turtle Beach: Located on the southern end of Siesta Key, Turtle Beach is another great spot for shell collectors. The beach is less crowded than Siesta Key Beach and is known for its abundant coquinas and cockles.
9000 Blind Pass Road, Sarasota
Remember that shelling regulations and laws may vary depending on the beach, so check with the local authorities before collecting any shells. Additionally, be respectful of the environment and only take what you need.
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