You might even want to take a long-handled net or shell scooper and wade knee-deep into the water to scoop shells off the bottom. This usually turns up an interesting bounty, including an occasional live shell that has to be returned to the sea. The beach sits on the northwest edge of Sanibel, where a bridge crosses over to Captiva Island. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Toggle navigation 1.
Share Share. Some shellers say a full moon phase brings in more shells due to higher tides. After a storm is also a great time to look for shells, as they often get swept in by waves. In the winter months with a north wind—although it can be chilly—is another time that may bring in more little surprises.
Shells come in two categories: bivalves, which have two hinged sides that clamp together to enclose the species; and gastropods, which consist of a single, curled shell with an enclosed chamber. Some common examples of gastropods include many varieties of conch, murex, olives and whelks. This type of shell houses animals in the snail family. This species comes in all shapes, colors and sizes, and their shell is usually conical, spiral and pointed at both ends with an opening along the side.
Keep in mind live shelling is prohibited on Sanibel and Captiva, as sometimes this type of shell still holds its resident. An elusive shell which is the golden ticket for Sanibel Island shell-seekers.
Measuring up to about 6 inches in length, it has a conical, smooth body with about 5 swirled rows at the top. It is a pretty shell, patterned by white rows spotted with brownish squares. If you find one, send your picture to one of the local papers for publication!
A commonly found shell comes in many sizes, up to about 15 inches. Usually light tan and creamy white, this pretty shell has a pointed top spiraling toward a shouldered ridge with small knobs.
From there, the shell tapers to a slender bottom with a pointy end. These shells often get washed up after a storm. The common cockle shell comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Usually only half of this bivalve is found, but occasionally this hinged shell can be found intact. They measure up to around 6 inches. Tulip shells can be found in shell banks and along breaking surf during low tide. Particularly at low tide springs and at full and new moons, the shells will be more exposed and easier to find.
You might also consider going shelling after a storm when the tides have been a bit rough and are more likely to bring shells up to the shore.
You can find all kinds of different seashells on Sanibel Island, making them the ideal souvenir for yourself or for a loved one back home. There are two major types of shells: gastropods and bivalves. Gastropods have one shell and include species such as conches and whelks.
They are usually cruising along the sandbar at low tide so keep a look out. This magnificent shell can grow to be 4 inches long and can be found in shallow, grassy bays. We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. By closing this banner or interacting with our site, you acknowledge and agree to our privacy policy.
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