Shelling is a beloved pastime for residents and visitors in Florida. The state is gifted with an abundance of beautiful beaches with a diverse assortment of shells washing ashore.
The best time of year for shelling in Florida is during the winter and spring months from December to May. Low tides expose large sections of the beach while fewer visitors leave more shells undiscovered.
Some beaches already famous for their fantastic shelling include Sanibel Island, known as the Shelling Capital of the World, Captiva Island, Marco Island, Venice Beach, Boca Grande, and the beaches of Pinellas County. Shell hunters flock to these shores to comb the sands for colorful coquinas, lightning whelks, alphabet cones, junonia shells, and more.
Why North Captiva Island is a Top Shelling Destination
North Captiva Island, also known as Upper Captiva, is located just north of Captiva Island off the Gulf Coast of Florida. This pristine barrier island is accessible only by private boat, ferry, or small plane, making it a more secluded shelling destination. With over 2.5 miles of beach on the Gulf of Mexico side, North Captiva offers excellent shelling opportunities.
Its location in the Gulf and isolation from major development make North Captiva one of the best shelling beaches in Florida. Gentle surf and sandy beaches mean an abundance of gorgeous seashells wash up daily. Shell seekers can find sand dollars, scallops, cockles, moon snails, olive shells, and more. The island is especially known for gorgeous lightning whelk shells, Junonia shells, and Scotch bonnets. With miles of beach that see little foot traffic, shellers have excellent chances of finding rare and unique specimens.
The island’s ferry service allows for quick day trips to the beach for shelling. Overnight stays are also available through rental homes, allowing for early morning and late evening shelling when the beach is at its emptiest. For those looking to escape crowds and have prime shelling opportunities, North Captiva Island is a top choice. The ferry service and lack of extensive development have helped preserve the island’s natural beauty and diverse shells.