Steve & Beverly Chesnut

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Estero Beach Club # 302

2508 Estero Blvd
Fort Myers, Beach FL 33931

Fort Myers Beach is a shell collector’s paradise, known for its diverse and beautiful seashells. The Gulf currents and gentle waves regularly wash up a variety of shells, making it a perfect spot for shelling enthusiasts of all levels. Here are some of the most common and sought-after shells you can find:

 Common Shells on Fort Myers Beach

1. Lightning Whelk 

One of the most iconic shells in Southwest Florida.
Has a distinctive left-handed spiral (most other whelks spiral to the right).
Ranges from light tan to dark brown with streaks resembling lightning. 

2. Fighting Conch 

A thick, sturdy shell with bright orange, brown, or purple hues.
Often found with the live animal inside—if so, be sure to return it to the water!

3. Alphabet Cone 
A small, conical shell covered in brown markings that resemble letters.
Can be found partially buried in the sand near the water’s edge.

4. Junonia 

The holy grail of shelling—rare and highly prized!
White or cream-colored with distinctive brown spots.
Because they’re usually found in deep water, spotting one on the beach is a once-in-a-lifetime find! 

5. Tulip Shell (Banded & True Tulip) 
A smooth, elongated shell with bold patterns in orange, brown, or gray.
The True Tulip is larger and more colorful, while the Banded Tulip is smaller with subtle stripes. 

6. Cockle Shells 

Heart-shaped and ribbed, often found in white, pink, or orange hues.
One of the most common shells, great for craft projects. 

7. Scallop Shells 
Fan-shaped and colorful, ranging from red and orange to purple and blue.
Frequently found along the shoreline, sometimes with both halves still connected. 

8. Olive Shell 
Smooth, glossy, and elongated, often with a brown or tan pattern. 

Buries itself in wet sand, so they’re commonly found at low tide. 

9. Sand Dollar 

A delicate, flat shell with a five-pointed star pattern on top.
Best found after a storm or during very low tide. 

10. Horse Conch 
The largest shell found in Florida, sometimes growing over a foot long!
Young horse conchs are bright orange, while adults turn brown or white. 

Best Time for Shelling on Fort Myers Beach
Early morning at low tide (especially after a storm) is the best time to find intact shells.
Full moon and new moon phases bring stronger tides, washing up more shells.