There’s nothing better than coming across a beautiful collection of seashells while strolling the sandy shores! Luckily, the uncrowded beaches of Hutchinson Island in Martin County, Florida offer some incredible seashell-spotting opportunities. Whether you’re looking to see conch shells, cockles, or calico scallops, our beaches offer them all for your viewing pleasure!
People love to visit the beach and collect seashells as souvenirs. However, removing seashells from the shoreline disrupts the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem. Seashells serve as natural habitats for small organisms, and their removal can have a negative impact on local biodiversity. Instead, admire the seashells in their natural setting and opt to capture beautiful photos as lasting memories.
So when’s the best time to snap some photos of our beautiful seashells? Low tide generally leaves more beach and sandbar exposed. So the best time to spot seashells (and sea glass!) is during periods of low tide. Plus the calm waters gently pull the sand away naturally and do much of the sifting for you, leaving the shells glistening on the shore. The full moon can also prove fruitful for the shell seeker! But really, no matter the time of day you decide to hunt, our Martin County beaches always have a wide array of shells to admire.
Another ideal time to see seashells is right after a big storm! The swelling waves tend to churn up the shells and sea glass lying on the bottom of the ocean. Many of these treasures will be tossed up to the shore during high tide.
Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the rack lines, which are rows of seaweed left on the beach by incoming and outgoing tides. Shells can usually be seen near the rack lines.
Interested in trying it out for yourself? Just make a trip to these beaches below and walk along the water’s edge. Tell us what you find by sharing photos and tagging @DiscoverMartin. And let us know if there are other spots you to go shelling in Martin County!
A gorgeous selection of seashells on the beach in Stuart, Florida in Martin County
You probably already know that Blowing Rocks Preserve is home to the largest Anastasia limestone shoreline, but did you know that it is also home to a plethora of stunning shells? Take a stroll down the shore to search for your Martin County souvenir.
This undisturbed and undeveloped stretch of sand on Hutchinson Island is perfect for the serious shell hunter.
Another hidden Hutchinson Island gem, Glascock Beach is home to stunning shells and glorious sea glass.
Bathtub Reef Beach is one of the most popular beaches in our community for many reasons – soft sands, blue water and a vast selection of seashells.
Keep your eyes peeled for the perfect seashell while you’re sunning or swimming at the extremely popular Stuart Beach.
Take a stroll down Bryn Mawr Beach at low tide and you’ll be sure to spot a slew of seashells.