It’s no secret that Sanibel and Captiva Islands are home to some of the world’s best shelling beaches. Here are our top three beaches for when you feel like scouring the sand for some shells!

Lighthouse Beach

At some point during your vacation, you’ll have to visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach. Situated at the southern tip of Sanibel Island, this beach provides an abundance of shells to sort through, calm waters to wade in, and soft, white sand to walk on. 

Blind Pass Beach

Pull over at Blind Pass Beach just before you reach Captiva Island. Parking can be tight in this lot, so try to arrive early to snag a space. Bonus points if you happen to be here at low tide — this is when you’re likely to have the best luck!

Bowman’s Beach 

This beach is one of our favorites for several reasons. Bowman’s Beach is great for long sunset strolls, daytime lounging, and you guessed it, shelling. Unique and rare shells are common here, so bring a bag — and your patience — to sift through your options. 

While these are our favorite beaches, you’re sure to find shells aplenty at most beaches on Sanibel and Captiva Island. So summon your inner beachcomber, check out our favorites, and find a few spots of your own! You’re sure to come home with an armful of treasures.