Shelling on Fort Myers Beach
Searching for shells is one of the simplest pleasures of a Fort Myers Beach vacation. Walk the beach at low tide, or take a boat trip to a nearby island where the shelling is even better. Every tour in our Shelling directory is run by a member of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Shelling Members
Browse every Chamber member captain and tour company offering shelling trips in the member directory. Featured members appear first, and profiles include details like contact information, trips, and rates where provided.
Shelling Tips and Trips
When to Look
The best shelling is usually at low tide, early in the morning, and after a storm or strong west wind pushes new shells onto the beach. Look along the wrack line, where the waves leave shells and seaweed.
Island Shelling Trips
Many of the area’s best shelling beaches are reached by boat. Member cruises and charters run trips to nearby islands such as Cabbage Key, Useppa, Boca Grande, Cayo Costa, and Pine Island, and some captains combine shelling with fishing or lunch.
Shell Responsibly
Lee County prohibits collecting live shells, including live sand dollars and sea stars. If a shell has an animal inside, leave it where you found it.
Good to Know
Bring a mesh bag, water shoes, and sun protection. Tide times change daily, so check the tide chart and confirm trip times with your captain.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go shelling on Fort Myers Beach?
Go at low tide, early in the morning, or after a storm or strong west wind. That is when the most new shells wash up along the wrack line.
Can I keep the shells I find?
You can keep empty shells. Lee County prohibits collecting live shells, including live sand dollars and sea stars, so leave any shell with an animal inside.
Where can I find the best shelling near Fort Myers Beach?
Boat trips to nearby islands such as Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, and Useppa are popular. Chamber members in the Shelling directory run shelling trips from Fort Myers Beach and nearby marinas.
Are these businesses Chamber members?
Yes. Every business in the Shelling member directory is a member of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce. Member profiles include contact information and, where provided, hours and other details.