For those who enjoy beach vacations, picking up seashells is a common pastime associated with a leisurely walk along the coastline. However, the shelling on Siesta Key is notoriously limited – in fact, people are often shocked at the seeming lack of seashells along our waterline. Experts attribute the area’s lack of shells to its quartz sand, which contains fewer shells and coral material that typically washes up on other beaches. Coastal currents and the geological makeup of the area play a significant role in what kind of debris ends up on the shore.
Visitors will have more luck finding shells on beaches to the south, such as Venice Island, Manasota Key, and Sanibel Island. However, that is not to say that you can’t ever find seashells on Siesta Key – just that you may have to be a bit more determined in your efforts. Here are some tips to help you to find a truly special natural treasure while you are visiting our beaches.
Best Times to Find Seashells on Siesta Key
Seashells are not always in abundance in this area, but there are certain times when your chances of finding a special shell are higher.
- Early Morning: Generally, the best time to hunt for seashells is early morning. Arriving at the beach just after sunrise offers a significant advantage, as any seashells that may have washed ashore overnight have not been picked through as of yet.
- Low Tide: Understanding the tides is vital for successful seashell hunting. Seashells are plentiful during or just after low tide when the retreating water may leave various treasures behind. Check local tide charts to plan your visit around low tide, which typically occurs twice daily. Tides vary based on the moon’s phases, so keeping an eye on lunar cycles can also be beneficial.
- Post-Storm Conditions: After a storm or heavy rain, an array of seashells and marine debris is often left on the beach. Storms stir up the ocean floor and deposit shells that might otherwise be hidden under the sand. While the weather can be unpredictable, a post-storm beach walk might reward you with an exceptional find.
Additional Tips for Finding Seashells
- Use a Sifter: A hand sifter or colander can be valuable for finding smaller seashells buried in the sand. This can help you sift through sand more efficiently and spot shells that might be missed.
- Look Beyond the Shoreline: While the shoreline is the most obvious place to search, don’t overlook the areas just above the high tide line. Shells can be deposited further inland as the tide pushes them up. Look for piles of shells that may have been left. If you are not averse to wading in the water, you may find many more shells in the knee-deep water. If there are sandbars that you can easily reach, they are also great places to look for seashells and sand dollars.
- Respect Wildlife: While searching for seashells on our beaches, it’s important to be mindful of the local wildlife. Avoid disturbing any living creatures you might find in the sand or shells – such as crabs or coquinas – and always consider the importance of preserving the beach environment.
Did You Know? When you pick up a sand dollar, if the hairlike structures on the underside are still moving, the animal is still alive. Be sure to return it to the water. If you do find a sand dollar to take home, it will appear greenish gray in color. You can bleach it to achieve the bright white appearance most are familiar with.
Ride and Paddle Has Everything You Need
Whether you want to sit under an umbrella, search for seashells, or take a bike ride during sunset – Ride and Paddle has all the gear you need. If you are planning a Siesta Key vacation, call us to reserve bicycles, kayaks, beach umbrellas, and beach wagons for the whole family. Don’t forget to ask us about tides and other conditions that may affect your search for Sarasota seashells.
