Finding sea shells by the sea shore on Sanibel, Captiva

Conch, Lightning Whelk, Scallops and Coquina are just some of the shell species to discover on the beaches of Captiva's South Seas Island Resort.

By Steve Jermanok

Located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, just an hour from Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva Islands represent the best of yesteryear’s pre-Disney Florida beach vacations. Considered one of the three best shelling beaches in the world, Sanibel contains some 400 species of seashells on its 20 miles of shoreline.

During the peak months of February, March, and April Florida vacations, plan a trip to the beaches on Sanibel or Captiva during low tide. You’ll find most seashells at the high tide line; also look for tidal pools, which are often a treasure trove of the largest shells.You have a good chance of returning back to your hotel room with sand dollars, whelks, even a conch shell (note: collecting live shells is strictly prohibited).

Shelling at the beach will whet your appetite for Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum on Sanibel, the only museum in the country dedicated to shells. The highlight of their exhibition is a revolving planet, with displays of shells from around the world. There’s also an exhibit on shell art and a detailed account on why so many shells wash up on Sanibel.

Once you’ve collectedyour bag of shells, head inland to the tropical paradise known as the “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This 5,000-acre wetland, home to alligators and numerous shorebirds, including herons, storks, pelicans, ibises, and egrets, is best experienced on bicycle. Just outside the refuge, you’ll find vendors with plenty of bikes for rent.

Perfectly placed on the beach of Captiva is the premier family destination on the island, the South Seas Island Resort, ideal for beach vacations. Now a mix of lodging options, the once 330-acre copra plantation offers harbourside hotel rooms, one and two bedroom condos, even your own private house on the shores. Swimming pools at each condo or the option to stroll to the main pool complex add to the pleasure. There are also 18 tennis courts with requisite pro and an award-winning 9-hole seaside golf course on site.

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Steve Jermanok has explored more than 75 countries and written over 1,000 articles on subjects ranging from art to adventure. He has worked as a columnist for National Geographic Adventure, contributing editor for Budget Travel, guest editor for The Boston Globe Sunday Magazine and writes regularly for Away.com, Health, Men’s Journal, Outside, and Yankee.

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