Located in south west Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, Sanibel Island is
well-known for its sea shells. Year round, a plethora of
beautiful, intact sea shells line its sandy white beaches. Sea
shell enthusiasts travel from all around the world to walk along the
island’s long stretches of undisturbed shells. The secluded,
well-preserved island provides an abundance of shells, allowing
visitors to select shell treasures as if they were fruits on a tree.
Why should I shell on Sanibel?
Sanibel’s unique geography has made it a shelling hot spot. The
island and surrounding land form a plateau that stretches for miles
into the Gulf of Mexico. Waves moving across this plateau scoop
up shells and move them across the plateau. When these tides hit
Sanibel Island, the shells are scattered across the island’s beaches.
When should I shell on Sanibel?
The best time to collect sea shells is during low tide, when the water
has retreated, exposing larger stretches of sand. During the low
tide, the receding water has left many more shells along the
beaches. In addition, during new or full moons, the water recedes
further, allowing for better shelling. Traditionally, December
and April tend to provide the most ample shelling opportunities.
In addition, foul weather (including hurricanes) tends to sweep up more
shells and scatter them across the beaches.
Where exactly should I shell on Sanibel?
Due to the island’s unique location, and sustained efforts at wildlife
and beach preservation, all of Sanibel’s beaches on the island provide
comparatively good shelling opportunities. In particular,
however, the eastern end (near “Lighthouse point") is better for
smaller shells, while the western and northwestern end (near
neighboring Captiva Island) is better for larger shells.
Sanibel Island Rental
is one of many fine vacation rental properties on Sanibel Island,
providing easy beach access for great shelling opportunities.
Feel free to inquire about rates and availability (write to:
rent@sanibel-island-rental.com).
» left by Kristen Rensvold from PA (2 years 310 days ago.)
I enjoyed this article. I visited Sanibel last summer and I absolutely loved it. I became consumed with shelling and had hopes of finding the precious Junonia shell. I plan to visit again this summer and use the tips from your website to help me. Respond to this comment
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Article added to SearchWarp.com on Saturday, July 23, 2005 View other articles written by Elizabeth Morgan(423)
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