alainaflute
Greg
Jody
E.G.D.Questions and Requests
Are you planning a beach vacation? Would you like us to do some research for you? Do you have any specific questions about beaches, books, marine animals or other things you’ve seen in our articles? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This is where you can ask your questions and get some answers. Please leave your question in the “leave a reply” box below, and we will answer it in the form of a return comment, as well as send it to the e-mail you give in your comment info. If it’s a really good question (or a request for information on a specific beach, etc.), then we may answer you in the form of a main-page article! Thank you very much for your interest and input. We’re happy to be of service!
Have a great day at the beach! – Jody, Greg, and E.G.D.
Rebecca said
going to Maui next week and would love to know if you know of good beaches for sea glass hunting. I have been there several times and found some in Lahaina and some near the airport in Kahalui…but slim pickens….any help? thanks
Jody said
Hi Rebecca,
That’s a great question. In my experience, the best beaches for finding sea glass are near the more populated locales, especially around areas with bars. Party scene locations tend to produce more glass in the surrounding water. Check for low tides, too. You will most likely find more sea glass when the tide is out and the beach is lengthened. Have a wonderful time! Let us know what you find. Aloha! Jody
Rebecca said
THANKS…I will be sure to let you know what treasures I find. I recently went to Guernsey Isle in the British Isles, and treasure hunting on the River Thames and found some beautiful treasures…it is going to be hard to beat……….Darn I guess someone has to do it, YEAH! Aloha
Barbara Wright said
We are in Kihei, Maui now and come every winter. I have the best luck in finding sea glass on Kamaole
Beach Park III. Another good place to look are the beaches on the way to Lahaina between Mile Markers 11-14.
E.G.D. said
Ooh! Good tips! Thanks for sharing ^_^
Susan said
Taking 16 year old grandson to Sanibel Is. What is there to do besides look for shells?
E.G.D. said
Excellent question! I will admit that I personally tend to think shelling when I hear Sanibel, but according to http://sanibelisland.com:
“Sanibel Island has everything one could wish for…excellent restaurants, accommodations, golfing, tennis, fishing, boating, shopping, bike paths, canoes, theatrical productions, the renowned J.N. “Ding Darling” National Wildlife Refuge & Bird Sanctuary. Since 1884 Point Ybel Lighthouse has guided seafarers to Sanibel Island’s shores.”
Their recreation specific page is at http://www.sanibelisland.com/recreation.html
It looks like there’s a little something for everyone! Have a great trip, and sorry for the lag on the reply- E.G.D.
LeighAnn Wainner said
Hello,
I am interested in having a wedding on Telephone Cove, Lake Mohave, AZ around the end of August, this year… I was wondering if there was any information you could provide to me with possibly having it there. (Fees, wheelchair accessible, etc.)? Would like to rent out the beach, or possibly block it off from the public for a short period of time. Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
Jody said
Hi LeaighAnn!
What a fun idea! South Telephone Cove is such a beautiful setting. You will need to deal with the Special Events Coordinator for the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. That office covers both the Lake Mead and Lake Mohave areas of the park. Her name is Naomi Shibata and she can be reached at 702-293-8931.
Such a wonderful way to celebrate your special day!
I hope you’ll share your story and photos with us. With our very best wishes, Jody
penny said
I found what I think is a nudibranch, but I haven’t found out exactly what genus and so forth. Is there a way to email some pictures so you can help me find out more about it? I am fascinated by this thing!
Jody said
Sure, we’ll give it a try. Tell us what you know about your find and send the pics to oneshellofafind@gmail.com. We might be able to figure it out together! Jody
Steve Garrett said
I just happened upon a picture you have under the ‘Creative Commons’ license, and it’s of some sea shells in sand. It’s titled: wings3. I am so new to Texas and currently reside in San Antonio. Have only been here in SA since January of this year, while I started out in Kerrville in November. Your picture has me interested and curious in the beaches here, and while I know they can’t be compared in any way to the California beaches (I am from California), it’s got me interested in taking a drive one day to see and also take some pictures (so I don’t have to utilize other folk’s photos, even though they are under the ‘CC’ license). My mother wants me to take some pictures of Galveston where she was born, and while I really want to, I found out from a MapQuest search that it’s a bit of a drive!! There’s also a beautiful State Park or Preserve about a days drive to the West of me or either Southwest or Northwest… like I say, I’m new, while still learning about this state! I came from the Antelope Valley and the whole valley is nowhere near as big as this city, while for me, it’s so easy to get lost!!! Anyway, I just wanted to ‘babble’ and let you know that your photo intrigued me or got my curiosity going!! Oh, and I already hit the Facebook button to do another post/link.
E.G.D. said
Aloha, and thanks for your interest, Steve! We’re so very glad you enjoyed the photo, but I fear that you’re mistaken about the CC license. Jody does not publish her photos under a CC license, and if someone else has done so, please-please-please let us know where so that we can ask them to take it down! All of Jody’s photos are copyrighted to herself, and she has even started to put a copyright mark directly onto the photos she posts on this site. I do very much hope you can help us fix the situation. On the other hand, I’m glad you wandered through, and we’d love to hear more from you about your personal beach-going experiences. Thank you very kindly. -E.G.D.
beachy117 said
I am from South Texas and would recommend for him to check out the Padre Island National Seashore on North Padre Island by Corpus Christi. During the summer months, they do the baby sea turtle releases early in the morning around 7. Also, while there, you can learn about the sea life and the wild life that you encounter.
Another cool drive during the cooler months is from North Padre Island and drive out to Port Aransas and take the ferry and check out the dolphins playing in the wake of the ships that pass through. From there drive out to Rockport which is a little artist colony among the rugged, windswept Live Oak trees by the water. Finally, eat some seafood over in Fulton. Each place on that little drive has it own personality; however, it not anything like dramatic California beaches, but it has its own simple beauty.
Jody said
Oooooh! That all sounds so lovely! I’m going to take these recommendations myself. We love the Texas Gulf Coast for it’s (mostly) untamed natural beauty.
Glenna said
What kind of treasures, other than shells, have been found on sanibel island florida? We are planning a trip soon and wanted to know if we should take a metal detector?
Jody said
Hi, Glenna. I’ve been to Sanibel Island many times and have never personally seen anyone with a metal detector on the beaches. I’m guessing that detecting there would be more of an opportunity to find personal items, not riches from a sunken galleon. Safe travels!
Glenna said
Hi Everyone! I guess by now you all know I am really new to this, so please have patience with me. Can someone post a photo of what an encrusted coin looks like? And will a metal detector pick up the reading? I have subscribed to Lost Treasure magazines but that’s as far as I’ve gotten. Thanks to all.
Jody said
Hi, Glenna! I found a very informative page from the Outer Banks of North Carolina: http://www.outerbanksnc.net/beachtips.html (TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL BEACH HUNTING). I hope it will be helpful for you.
We, at Beach Treasures and Treasure Beaches, are more hunters of what lies above the sand. We’d love to hear about your metal detecting adventures, though, and hope you’ll keep us in mind!
Have a great day at the beach!
Lucy said
Along the gulf coast of Florida, what is the best time of the year for shelling?
Jody said
Lucy, thanks so much for your question! Really, any time of year is a good time for shelling on the Gulf Coast of Florida! The very best conditions come after storms and, of course, at low tide. Be sure to check those local tide tables for the lowest possible tides. Also, be sure to get out onto the beach in the early morning, before the sands are picked over. Here’s another answer we gave to a reader from our previous post on shelling on Sanibel Island, Florida:
“We’ve turned to our trusty copy of The Sanibel Shell Guide to find you an authoritative answer to your question. According to the guide:
“The most ideal combination of conditions for shelling would be the following: an exceptionally low morning tide during a full moon, a north-west wind, two or three days after a rousing storm during the high season” (page 12). The “high season,” incidentally, is the winter. The book actually explicitly states that “good shells are hard to find” during the summer, which may have been your problem, depending on when you visited. Here’s hoping you get one or two of the above listed ideal conditions on your next Sanibel visit!”
*By the way, we haven’t had any issues beachcombing in this area during the summertime.*
Wren said
Hello everyone. I am making my first trip to the Big Island early in January and i am very excited. I will be staying at Hilo for a week and then the Kona coast for several days. It sounds like shelling is a bit different on Hawaii – at least on the big island. It sounds like I am more likely to find shards and flotsam (which is fine with me) rather than whole shells unless one goes wading in or snorkeling. I have never snorkled. Is this true? Can some one give me an idea of what to be on the look on for and at what beaches.? I will be traveling solo and I am looking forrward to it, but I have to be a little wary of going too far off the beaten path unless I can find a local guide.
I am also wondering about tidal pools – how accessible they are and what might be found around them. I uderstand that winter waves can be wicked, but I assume there are tidal charts that tell when the lowest tides are?
thanks all! Wren
Jody said
Wren, how exciting! The Big Island is an amazing mix of beaches and mountains. First, my favorite Hawaii guidebooks come in a series by Andrew Doughty, a Hawaiian local. Be sure to pick up a copy of “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” as soon as possible. In my opinion, it’s the absolute best reference on the market! Also, the Kohala Coast has quite a few gorgeous beaches. Make sure you see ‘Anaeho’omalu Bay and Hapuna Beach. On A-Bay you’ll find small, whole shells and at Hapuna you’ll be able to collect some beautiful coral. Look on the right sidebar of our home page and click on “Beaches of the Hawaiian Islands” for more info. Also, The Hawaii Beach Safety site is a wonderful resource. ~Aloha~
~A couple more 🙂
Best Hawaiian Beaches for Shells
The Ultimate Hawaii Seashell Guide
Debbie Olsen said
Is there a rope swing at the Hukilau Park? We took our kids to Oahu 7 years ago and, during a drive, stumbled onto a beautiful park at the ocean’s edge, which included rope swings. I got the most idyllic pictures of them swinging, with the ocean in the background. I don’t remember the name of the park and was wondering if it was the Hukilau. Maholo, Debbie
E.G.D. said
Aloha, Debbie! You know, I’ve been to Hukilau Beach Park four or five times, and I’ve never seen a rope swing there. Of course, that doesn’t mean they aren’t there! I tend to be a head-straight-to-the-beach kind of girl. That sounds amazing, though! I believe there is a rope swing at Sunset Point. There’s definitely one in Pearl City on the Waimano Pool Trail, but that’s not North Shore. I’ll keep looking and let you know if I find anything else.
Debbie said
Thanks!
Adam said
Hi iam going to tangier morocco for a holiday if i go jet skiing is the beach safe off sharks or anything that can harm you
E.G.D. said
Aloha, Adam! In very happy news, by all accounts I have ever encountered, the beaches in Morocco are incredibly safe with regards to wildlife. Also, according to a USA Today article:
“Morocco…is one of the few places where swimming with dolphins in the open ocean is legal. Some boat dive trips combine diving with dolphin watching, including the chance to get in the water with the dolphins. Sea turtles are sometimes seen, and the reefs offer a home to slithering blue conger eels, crabs, grouper, tuna and sea bream.” It would seem that the wildlife is generally friendly and awesome! Granted, any wild animal has the potential to harm you, but as long as you are respectful of them and do not threaten them, you will probably not have any problems.
Jody said
Adam, I know of no beach that is safe from anything that can harm you. It’s always best to follow the safety rules set out by the regional authority. Look for the posted safety signs on the beach and always check with the lifeguard before entering the water (especially in new and unfamiliar places). Follow all regulations when you rent your jet ski and, most importantly, ask questions of the locals. Have a wonderful time and please feel free to share your beach experiences and photos with us on your return!
Deborah said
Hi,
Am heading to London in a couple of weeks and hope to visit Brighton one day. Have read that some places along the southcoast of England have laws making it illegal to pick up pebbles/rocks from the beaches. Do you know if there are any such restrictions that beachcombers should be aware of when walking along Brighton Beach ? Thanks ! Deborah
Jody said
Deborah, thanks so much for stopping by! I did find this article on beachcombing in Brighton. It seems that the police may turn a blind eye to any visitor who takes home a beach pebble or two but it’s technically against the law to collect pebbles according to this news article from The Argus dated May 22, 2010:Caroline Lucas says she has returned Brighton pebble. (Quote: A city council spokesman said: “Technically it’s illegal to remove pebbles from Brighton beach but while our seafront officers are instructed to report anyone taking large quantities of pebbles to the police they are unlikely to report visitors taking a single pebble home to remember their visit.”) Here’s some contact information for the Brighton & Hove City Council if you’d like to give them a call for up-to-date information on the regulation. Tel: (01273) 290000 | Mail: info@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Have a wonderful trip and please come back to share your experiences and photos on your return! ~Jody
Deborah said
Thanks, Jody !
Nothing like getting arrested for walking off the beach with a bag of pebbles. Hope I can fit Brighton into our tour schedule.
Deborah
Jody said
You are so welcome. Brighton is definitely worth the trip!
Disneyways.com said
Jody I think you may have been the winner of my recent contest. Will you please email me at Disneyways@Disneyways.com? Thanks!
Jody said
Wooohooo! How very exciting! Disney everything makes me happy! I just love your Disneyways!
Thanks so much for your notice.
Have a great day at the beach! ~Jody
Henry said
Hello Jody. I’m primary a jadehound and frequent Big Sur. But from time-to-time, I get the urge to go agate hunting. I found your site while doing a GOOGLE search on Bolinas Beach in Marin, County. California. Like, you I initially had no luck on finding agates. But, on negative low tide I went closer to the “point” (in your picture) and searched the waterline and found a couple of small tar agates. Then I found a silver dollar sized white piece. It’s quite nice and handled a “tumbler” really well. So I think negative low tide and looking after a storm is pretty much the key. 🙂
Jody said
How wonderful! That’s very good news. Thanks so much for the info. I hope you’ll consider a guest post for our blog someday. Have a look and see what you think: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/submissions/. We’d love to hear more about your jadehounding! ~Have a great day at the beach, Jody
nutsfortreasure said
Hi
no one from England got back to me on Yarn Bombing but I did get this
Eunice, I am in North Carolina USA – and yes there is yarn bombing about twice a year. Several knit shops get together and pick a date, then all who can come to a specific place (most time some where that could use the color). It happens at about 4am. I am hoping to join in the next one.
Jody said
What fun! I’m going to learn how to knit and/or crochet so I can join in on one of these! It’s just so cheery and fun to see. It must be even more of a hoot to be an actual contributor.
nutsfortreasure said
I know I can crochet so I want to liven up my BEACH 🙂
Jody said
Send photos!
nutsfortreasure said
Will do I may call for needing to be BAILED OUT lol
Jody said
No problem! 🙂
nutsfortreasure said
🙂
Garrett said
Hey there would you mind sharing which blog platform you’re using? I’m going to start
my own blog in the near future but I’m having a difficult time selecting between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your layout seems different then most blogs and I’m looking
for something completely unique. P.S Apologies for being off-topic but I had to ask!
E.G.D. said
We’re on wordpress, but the layout is largely the product of a ridiculous number of CSS changes. Beware, though, because we had to pay for the privilege of making CSS changes. WordPress can be a seriously rigid system. It’s a good starter engine, though. Good luck!
Mary Narkevicius said
Hello there; Maybe you could be the one to finally help me. I’ve been looking for a bottle of Star Sand from Okinawa, Japan for my son. Someone gave him a bottle many years ago and someone else threw it away by mistake. He was very upset. I would like to replace it for him because he’s has helped me through so much with health issues. I owe him my life and could never find a way to pay him back. He’s one in a million. Any help you could give me to find some would be greatly appreciated.
Jody said
I just checked on line to see what I could find for you. It looks like it’s available for sale on a couple of sites. I’m sorry that I cannot vouch for the authenticity or the sellers. I simply googled: star sand okinawa for sale. I hope you find what you are looking for. All the best, Jody
Roslyn Cramer said
I have a collection of seashells gathered in Florida, the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. I no longer have space to keep them and would like to give them to someone who uses them in craft projects. I live near Satellite Beach and could deliver them to a nearby area.
Jody said
You are soooo kind! I’ll go ahead and place it on our Facebook page (with your permission)! Maybe you’ll make a new friend!
Linzy said
Hello there, I would be very interested in the shells if they’re still available 🙂
Fathima Nuskiya said
Hi,
I am very much fond of Triton shells. I have number of Triton shells but all those are right screwed Tritons. I like to have a left screwed Triton shell too because I have seen them only in pictures. Please be kind enough to tell me where I can find left screw turned Triton shells. I am eager to own a left screwed Triton shell. I love Triton shells.
Thank you.
Regards.
Fathima.
Jody said
Fathima, what a great question! From what I have found to date, the Triton is a right turned seashell. The left handed Triton seashells are an anomaly and very, very rare in this species. Are you perhaps thinking of the Lightning Whelk? This gastropod is a very well known for its left turned seashell: Lightning Whelk.
Please let me know if you need further information and I’ll keep digging along with you.
Thanks so much for checking with us! ~Jody
Fathima Nuskiya said
Hi Jody,
Thanks for your reply. I didn’t mean Lightning Whelk. I know that left screwed Triton shells are rare, but I don’t know it’s verrry rare. You think how many left screwed Tritons exist in the present world???
Jody said
That is a very good question! I don’t think that anyone could have the answer.
Hannah said
I’m writing a paper on the importance of leaving sea life (sea stars in particular) where they are. I have heard that it is illegal in most places to take live star fish home, but I can’t find an official website that says where it’s illegal and why. All I can find are eHow questions and Yahoo! answers and such, which aren’t very creditable. Do you know where I can look?
Jody said
Each shoreline/beach has different rules and regulations. They can also overlap with county laws and city ordinances. Tide pool areas are most often regulated. Here is a sampling of sites for you:
1) Sanibel Island: http://www.mysanibel.com/Departments/Police-including-Emergency-Management/Fact-Sheets/Sanibel-Shelling-Regulations
2) California Marine Protested Areas: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/m/MPA/Regulations
3) Beachcomber’s Beware
4) Tide Pool Etiquette 101
5) Shelling Regulations
Good luck with your paper! We’d love to hear how it goes.
Cheryl said
What about larger shells ?
E.G.D. said
Good question. What *about* larger shells? Are you looking to find them on a beach? Are you looking to identify one? Clarification would be appreciated. Thanks- E.G.D.
jeni said
hi dear all here
I was looking for triton shell left hand side for so long which is very rare, did anyone here can help me to find that left triton or anyone here have information might someone have it, Im really interesting to buy that we wil give highest price for that, if any one here have it or have the information about someone who willing to selling that, would you please inform me n contact me at my email jenimamelia@yahoo.com or my number +6281218828573
your help will be much meaning for me may God bless you all thankyou
have a nice day
Barbara Karnik said
I have just moved to Old Orchard Beach, ME. I love walking the beach and finding unique finds for crafting. I am seeing numerous posts about “collecting laws”, but cannot find any specific to the Maine coast. Can you tell me where to get that info?
Thank you
Jody said
Hello Barbara,
Kudos to you! How wonderful that you share our interest in responsible beachcombing!
Each municipality may have their own rules and regs. State and Federal lands quite often have very specific collecting ordinances.
Here’s one site I found to be very helpful: http://www.necwa.org/seashells.html.
I hope you’ll come back and share your treasured moments and beach treasures with us! We just love to share!
Have a great day at the beach, Jody
jimmie said
What is the best time of year to find Sand dollars? We are thinking of going to Sanibel. Last time we were there in Oct, but no sand dollars. Lots of other beautiful shells.
Is there another beach around Ft. Meyers you recommend or is Sanibel the best if it is shells you are interested in and sand dollars specifically. Thanks
Jody said
Jimmie, thanks so much for your question! Really, any time of year is a good time for shelling on the Gulf Coast of Florida! We highly recommend Sanibel! Sanibel Island is a beachcomber’s dream. The very best conditions come after storms and, of course, at low tide. Be sure to check those local tide tables for the lowest possible tides. Also, be sure to get out onto the beach in the early morning, before the sands are picked over. Here’s another answer we gave to a reader from our previous post on shelling on Sanibel Island, Florida:
“We’ve turned to our trusty copy of The Sanibel Shell Guide to find you an authoritative answer to your question. According to the guide:
“The most ideal combination of conditions for shelling would be the following: an exceptionally low morning tide during a full moon, a north-west wind, two or three days after a rousing storm during the high season” (page 12). The “high season,” incidentally, is the winter. The book actually explicitly states that “good shells are hard to find” during the summer.”
We have never had that problem! But, we have never been to the Gulf Coast when sand dollars have been the most plentiful find. It really is the luck of the draw.
Here’s a wonderful web page with some great tips: http://www.sanibel-captiva.org/sanibel-island-shelling/.
Please come on back and share your experience with us! We’ll be waiting.
Safe travels, Jody
jnwllms said
I am putting together a local broadcast story for KSDS, 88.3 FM on beachcombing. I am searching for information for the Pacific Beach area of San Diego at this time. Individuals may be featured on a radio broadcast of treasure hunting, metal detecting or beachcombing activities. Broadcast is scheduled for June, 2014. Please reply if you are interested.
Jody said
What a fun opportunity! Unfortunately, I’m not a local. We just skip from beach to beach and enjoy our daily beach treasure finds. Pacific Beach is a real gem in San Diego’s crown! Good luck to you!
Kim boyland said
I’m in islamorada FL, leaving to go home to MO in the morning. Is there any where to find a beach with a lot of shells on my way home?
Jody said
I would follow the Gulf Of Mexico. There are some wonderful shelling opportunities on Sanibel Island, in Venice, and on the Gulf islands (Honeymoon Island State park near Dunedin is well known for shelling!). Safe travels!
Catherine Moore said
I live in Georgia. I just returned from a two week shelling expedition on Sanibel Island, where we go each May. I would really like to plan a shelling trip to the Atlantic coast, possibly Georgia. Any recommendations of places to shell?
Jody said
Cumberland Island National Seashore should be a good bet. You’ll need to read all about the ferry transportation and go prepared. The NPS website should have everything you need to know before you go. Have a wonderful time! We’d love it if you’d share any of your shelling trips with us in a guest post (Simply check our home page for submission guidelines.)! Cumberland Island National Seashore: http://www.nps.gov/cuis/index.htm
Carrie W said
I found a shell on Cayo Costa yesterday that I thought was a cats paw with a tail. I’m not really sure what it is. Can I email you some photos of it? I’d love to find out what it is.
Thank you!
Carrie
Jody said
Absolutely! Send your photos to oneshellofafind@gmail.com. We’ll put it up on the Beach Treasures and Treasure Beaches site and on Facebook if need be! We love that you asked. Please feel free to tell us more about Cayo Costa’s beaches: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/submissions/
Paul said
Hi, how much are fees for Jack Smith Memorial. I have a small raft w engine I don’t need the launch ramp I can launch from any beach, as long as I don’t have to walk too far from my car. Thanks. Is it better than Katherine’s landing. I went there already. If there is sand and shade, and close to vehicle it would be bettter thank you. Or if you recommend anything in the vicinity.
Jody said
Hi Paul! Here’s the website for Jack Smith Park: http://www.cityofneedles.com/pages/Departments-Services/Parks/Jack-Smith-Park.html. Whether or not it’s “better” than Katherine’s Landing is your call! FYI: We really loved our time at Big Bend of the Colorado: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/06/18/big-bend-of-the-colorado-river-nevada/. Wherever you choose, have a great day at the beach! (You’ll find our Jack Smith Park post here: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/06/22/bonus-beach-jack-smith-memorial-park-needles-california/)
Isela said
Can we camp out in tents @ this lake beach in New Mexico & do they have showers? What is the cost
Jody said
Isela, you’ll need to tell me what New Mexico lake you’re asking about. I’ll certainly try to help!
lkb77471 said
Hello! I’m enjoying reading your articles.
I’m planning a trip to Sugarland to visit family next week and would like to take the kiddos (6 & 11) to the beach. I would love to find one that’s good for combing, sand castles and not overrun with people. We’ll be going on a weekday.
I’ve thought about San Luis island but I’m not sure I want to drive that far. I’d appreciate any suggestions you might have.
Thank you!!
Jody said
Aloha! I’m guessing you’d like a beach with bathrooms and nice facilities? We love the little beach in La Porte, Texas for our family! Sylvan Beach Park: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2014/02/12/sylvan-beach-park-or-who-would-go-to-the-beach-to-use-the-internet/. Otherwise it’s a nice drive to Quintana Beach County Park which is also a big favorite for us! https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/06/05/quintana-beach-county-park-on-the-texas-gulf-coast-so-many-reasons-to-visit/. Both have very nice facilities.
Have a wonderful time at the beach & please let us know where you end up!
Donna Sargent said
I’m trying to find out where is the best beach in Florida to find sea glass. Any suggestions?
Jody said
We often find the best sea glass around the more rowdy sections of beach. Sorry to say that areas near bars and local hang outs usually provide the most litter… which often leads to tumbled sea glass. Good luck!
Carol said
I am planning a sea bean hunt trip in October. What beaches would you recommend between Galveston and Port Aransas Texas? I am looking for some place different to hunt. I have already been to St. Jose Island, Mustang Island and National Seashore.
E.G.D. said
Sorry for the delay! We’ll get right on this. Thanks for dropping us a question-line- E.G.D.
E.G.D. said
You know, I’m looking at that drive on google maps, and my best advice from experience is for you to follow every sign along the way that declares that there’s a beach. It looks like the main highway pretty much hugs the coast, so it should work well! When Mom (Jody) and I drove the Louisiana south coast, we had amazing luck doing that (you can check out our articles on that trip over here: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/08/08/a-wealth-of-wildlife-on-louisianas-gulf-coast-the-creole-nature-trail/ and https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/09/07/waves-and-welcomes-at-maes-beach-louisiana/ ). It is a truly excellent way to find yourself on little known and little advertised beaches. On a totally different note, have you seen this site? It doesn’t mention specific beaches, but I thought it was really interesting! – http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/nonpwdpubs/young_naturalist/plants/sea_beans/
p1040er said
Thank you for your comments especially on Louisiana’s beaches. I am very close to the Texas Louisiana border. I think we are going to just wing it and do like you suggested. Thanks again and I will keep you posted. Carol
Sent from my iPad
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E.G.D. said
Happy to help! I hope you enjoy your trip, and we greatly look forward to hearing about your explorations~! -E.G.D.
Maggie said
Hello, I just came across this site and was wondering if you could answer a question? I live on Long Island and my husband and I just went for a walk on the beach at Point Lookout. It is late October and I found a sand dollar. Something tells me that this very rare. I’ve lived on Long Island my whole life and have never seen one. Any information would be much appreciated.
Thank you!
Maggie
E.G.D. said
Aloha, Maggie, and thanks for sending this question along! I know that Long Island beaches aren’t exactly famous for sand dollars, but they do live in that area (I have heard you are unlikely to find very big specimens, though). According to Animal Diversity Web (http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Echinarachnius_parma/) you probably found an Echinarachnius Parma ^_^. Congratulations on your special find! -E.G.D.
Robin Sneath said
Hi, We are planning a trip to Port Saint Joe, Indian Pass FL. Can you tell us were is the best place find sea shells and what kind. Thanks..
E.G.D. said
I’m on it! In the meantime, here’s some FL seashell-beach info: https://beachtreasuresandtreasurebeaches.com/2012/02/28/top-ten-florida-beaches-for-seashells/
Although I don’t know if any of those are close to Indian Pass. I’ll keep you posted as to what I find- E.G.D.
E.G.D. said
Wow! I just found this great website, and it includes a shelling guide. I think it will definitely fit the bill for your vacation planning: http://www.visitgulf.com/shelling
I hope you have a great trip, and please share your finds with us when you get back ^_^ -E.G.D.
Girard Fisher said
I am considering using one of your (Jody’s) tide pool photos as the basis for a painting that will be entered in a museum competition. I note your copyright symbol prominently and appropriately displayed. Please let me know whether you would allow such use and your conditions. Doubt this “leave a reply” is the right vehicle for discussing this, so I won’t say more here. Please let me hear from you at your convenience. Thanks.
E.G.D. said
Aloha, Girard. Jody’s on a cruise and unreachable just at the moment, but I will ask her when she calls next. I strongly suspect she’ll be fine with it, but I feel I shouldn’t speak for her in this instance. I’ll keep you posted!
E.G.D. said
Aloha again, Girard. Jody got back to me and says it’s my call, so I’m going to say that that would be fine. How about this? May we have a print of your painting and may we post it on our site when you’re finished? I think that would be a totally fair exchange ^_^. Many thanks, and best wishes for an awesome painting! -E.G.D.
Girard Fisher said
Done. Well, done in a month. You’ll have it then. Thank you. Best.
E.G.D. said
Sounds like a plan! We’re all looking forward to seeing your work ^_^
Jody said
Girard, How is your work of art coming along? We’d sure love to see what you’ve created! ~Jody
We’ll be happy to send along our address!
blanca sanchez said
Hello my question is can you still camp at the Beach at Bryan Texas I would really appeciate thank you
E.G.D. said
I am happy to report that yes, you can! According to Freeport’s official website:
“Freeport’s Bryan Beach:Freeport has approximately three miles of natural beach that is regularly maintained. It’s the perfect spot to camp, have a cook-out or do some shore fishing.Most residents and visitors to Freeport’s Bryan Beach come and enjoy a day of fun in the sun or a long stroll on the beach looking for sea shells. If you need a place to relax, this is it. If you need to release some energy, maybe jet sking or wind surfing is more your speed. whatever you are looking for, you’ll find it on Bryan Beach.”
Joyce Rosenbalm said
Looking for a beach in Florida with lots of shells and white sand, places to stay on the beach. Prefer somewhere not to crowed and not to far from Knoxville, TN. We have been to Sanibel, loved it, but was a long drive from Knoxville.
Jody said
Joyce, the beaches on the Florida panhandle are fabulous too! Check our Panama City’s beaches and Destin too. Those places are touristy though and will have the usual crowds during the summer. Pensacola is another good bet. Please let us know what you decide on! We’d love to have you come back and share your Beach Treasures and Treasure Beaches with us! Photos are always welcome. Just check out our guest post submission guidelines on the home page. Everyone is welcome here!
Have a great day at the beach! ~Jody
linda said
Do you know where I can buy cat paw shells.
E.G.D. said
When all else fails, check out Etsy! Here’s a cat paw specific link:
https://www.etsy.com/market/cats_paw_shell
Enjoy ^_^ -E.G.D.
Vicki Haag said
I was wondering if anyone heard of any beaches, near Las Vegas, NV. where you can find sea glass. We’re originally from WI. and enjoyed many days sea glass hunting on Lake Michigan. Thank You.
E.G.D. said
That’s a really good question! Lake Mead is the closest large body of water to Las Vegas, NV, but I honestly don’t think there’s enough industry on the lake to lead to much tumbled glass. Lake Las Vegas is closer, but it’s also tiny, and I am pretty sure it simply doesn’t move enough to lead to much of any kind of tumble effect. Lake Michigan has a proper tide, and there are many bordering businesses, warehouses, bars, etc. so I can see why it would lead to good sea glass. I think, statistically, you’re about as likely to find sea glass on any NV beach as you are on any other, and your odds are pretty slim! Still, I certainly wish you luck, and the area’s lake beaches are really fun on a hot day. Let us know if you manage to find the mother lode- E.G.D.
Kasey said
We are heading down to Madiera Beach in mid March. Any idea if sand dollars are found along this beach? We had great luck in Clearwater last year. I have read Venice Beach for shark teeth, which my daughter collects. She has found all of hers on Myrtle beach. Any idea if shark teeth are found on Madiera Beach? She did not find any teeth at Clearwater. Thanks for any information!
E.G.D. said
What a great question! Incidentally, I’ve had spectacular luck with shark teeth on Venice Beach. As for sand dollars in Madeira Beach, the answer is YES! Yes, sand dollars are actually reasonably common at Madeira Beach. That is… if you meant Madeira Beach. I’m not sure I know where I might find a Madiera Beach. I took a wild guess that you meant Madeira Beach in Florida because you seem to be talking about Venice Beach in Florida. I certainly wish you the best of luck, and I do hope you will share your finds with us when you get home from your trip! -E.G.D.
Diana Fischer said
Hi! My husband and I are going to the Northern California coast in a couple of weeks with our 5 kids (ages 2-11). This is our first time we have been. We are staying near Trinidad, and my kids are excited to find shells and agates. But, I know nothing about finding them! Is it easy? Are there some beaches that are better than others? Any info would be appreciated!
E.G.D. said
Sorry for the lag, Diana. Jody and Greg are in the middle of a move, and that can be a little crazy. As for finding things on the beach, I have to say that some beaches really are better than others, but for any beach at all, you’ll have the best luck finding treasures at low tide and/or after a storm. I hope you have a great trip and find some great things!
Donald and Evelyn Smith said
When collecting shells in San Diego South Bay, Imperial Beach, and Coronado it is important to avoid collecting in areas designated as protected. This would include state beaches and nature preserves such as the Tijuana Estuary. The rule applies not only to live shells which should not be collected without a license, but also to skeletal remains.
E.G.D. said
That’s an excellent point! It’s pretty well universally true that you should check a beach’s rules before walking away with things.
mary said
I am in need of a stone or pebble ( small) to make a necklace ( choker style ) for a male friend of mine who has always wanted to golf at pebble beach golf resort. He has been ill and I know he wont be able to get there, so I thought I would bring “it” ( or a small piece of it , to him.. I know this sounds Corny but I’m a hopeless romantic. Is there a way anyone could send me some small size pebbles that are colorful and from that area ( ideally the golf course)
Please e mail me at marebare195@gmail.com
Thank you
Mary
E.G.D. said
Would you like us to post your shout-out on the main-page, Mary? Please let me know if I have your permission to do so! Thanks
Dede said
I am going to treasure lake and have done lots of resarch. It doesn’t say anything about the baches having boardwalks. Do they have boardwalks?
E.G.D. said
Are you talking about Treasure Lake in PA? If so, I don’t think there are boardwalks there. There do appear to be beaches, though!
Kandie shiver said
Hi I live in winnie tx.which is close to galveston which I’ve been so many times..I luv to go shelling ..I go at least 2 times a week..luv sea glass,and all sea shells but I’m wanting to try a new place that possible might have better shells that aren’t always broken like a they r in crystal beach and galveatin….does anyone know of a prettier place to go in Texas for better sea shells and possibly cleaner and clearer water??any input wud be greatly appricated
E.G.D. said
Well, from Winnie, it’s not that hard to get to Louisiana! Holly Beach, on the gulf coast of Louisiana, is hands-down one of the best shelling beaches I have ever had the pleasure of visiting. According to google maps, you’re about an hour away, and trust me on this, it’s well worth it. If you want to cut some time off your trip, there are little beaches dotting the coast along that drive well before Holly that are also worth a shelling-visit. I’ll comment again if I think of any Texas beaches that seem to fit your bill ^_^
Cindy said
having a very hard time finding a 3-4 bedroom gulf front home with pool on Sanibel…are there not many for rent?
E.G.D. said
Well, there are a quite large number of vacation rentals out that way, anyhow. Are you looking for long term or a few days? I just google searched it, and a whole list showed up! Granted, if you’re going to let something go, it looks like it’s going to have to be the pool. In really good news, the gulf is a pretty nice place to get wet ^_^
Corrie said
I am planning a vacation to St Augustine in June. My children love to search for shells. Is there a good beach in St Augustine to search for shells or should I choose a different vacation town/beach? We have never been to the ocean so we would like to stay on the Atlantic coast side.
E.G.D. said
St. Augustine is great for shelling! Believe it or not, I’ve heard that St. Augustine Beach is one of the best in the area. Here’s a great article from their local paper: http://staugustine.com/stories/011407/news_4335687.shtml
I hope that helps, and I hope you have a great trip!
Joelle Roddy said
Do you buy shark teeth?
E.G.D. said
No, though we all quite enjoy finding them!
Suzanne F. Warf said
Friend going to Shell Beach, Ca to look for shells. What shells are common there? I am from TN so CA shells are new to me. Thank you for your help.
E.G.D. said
That’s an excellent question! Pismo Beach (including Shell Beach) is pretty well known for clams, so you’d probably be able to find clam shells. Also, investigating photos people have taken of shells on Shell Beach, it would appear there are lady slippers, sand dollars, and moon snails! I hope your friend finds some treasures.
Aria Potter said
I have been trying to identify some seashells I found at shell beach in LaJolla CA. They are all the shape of a butterfly(but one piece, not two bivalves) and they are pink, green and white.
They range between 3cm to 1 inch wide and about 2cm to 5cm height. I was unable to attach a photo but I can email one to you.
E.G.D. said
We would love to see your finds and help you identify them! Please feel free to drop us a line at the website e-mail (oneshellofafind@gmail.com) with a picture, and we’ll do our best to help!
David Yarbrough said
Is it legal to metal detect on the beaches of Cumberland Island, Georgia?
E.G.D. said
Hi, David. Sorry for the delay, but I went and did some research on the matter, and the answer is as follows: It depends. If the beaches are owned by the local or state government, then sadly the answer is no, it is not. For further information, you should look up Georgia State Title 12. It is legal to metal detect on private land, so long as you have permission from the landowner. If you are, for instance, metal detecting on a privately owned hotel beach, you could probably inquire at the hotel lobby. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news! I hope you have a very happy new year.
Sam said
I was just diving in Catalina Island and saw a fascinating snail at about 60’ below the surface. It was about 4” long and was white with brown strips. It had 3 boney plates about the same size as its body, one across its back and two at its base like pectoral fins. .
E.G.D. said
Very cool! Are you looking for help identifying it? If so, we’d love to see your pictures. Between us, we have a whole lot of shell guides sitting on coffee tables ^_^
Sharon R said
Hello,
I am a teacher in Nebraska. We are doing a Reading celebration based on Pirates. One project we are trying to work on is getting sand samples from different locations to show the students how amazing our world is. We want them to be able to investigate and explore the sands. Do you know of anyone located in the Midwest that would consider sharing their sand collection for a day or do you know of contacts we could have the students write to to request getting sand samples. Or if you have any other suggestions. We are even willing to buy or rent some sand samples if possible. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Sharon R
E.G.D. said
That sounds like a fantastic project! I’ll ask around, but at this point the only sand I have is from the gulf coast, and it’s in my shoes. Sorry for the lag! Half of our team are professors and dealing with mountains of final projects and other grading and the other half are on vacation abroad.
cJ said
I really need some peoples help who are much smarter than i am to help me identify s very rare collection of seashells my late father collected from the 60-70’s as a surfer bum.And i mean the endless summer sleeping in vans just to do what he loved an made him happy. Surf, snorkel, hiking and everything else that comes with the life style “drum circles under the moon” and what not. Anyway the box of shells was at my aunts house and was sent to me for some reason and going thought them just blew my mind. The size, the quality, the uniqueness is unbelievable. SO I am in the process of identifying them and it’s proving not so easy. The shells are 50+ years out of the water no telling he long the grew and were alive.I’ve had luck with3 of them and my idea has always been to make a really nice plexiglass display case with velvet inlay with, with the names and scientific names of each on a placard underneath each to eventually become a valuable collectors item. I am so sorry for the rant and if you are still here please please i need help with Id-ingthe shells that are left. there a peculiar one that might be undiscovered because i can not find a thing using reverse image search with a pretty powerful algorithm. I understand shells are just calcium and we get a lot of unknown shells just so a whole host of sea creature could have called home.. But the fact my dad picked it out while snorkeling id really like to know wwt heck it is.Maybe he grabbed it just because of it’s beauty but who knows. so im asking you super smart very generous people if you can help e i.d.
E.G.D. said
Hello, there! Sorry for the long delay in our response. The website staff has been quite remarkably busy for the past year, and we haven’t done as much work as we might like (or, indeed, even checked the comments). Have you considered posting pictures of your shells online in a guest article? We could ask people to comment if they can identify one of the shells. Anyhow, I do hope you’ve made progress in the meantime.
Denise said
Hello. I need help identifying a type of find that I have been seeing recently. It looks manmade, has ridges, but made of black stone and painted with bright orange stripes or dots.It looks to be pottery pieces, but it is made of stone. Some of the black stone even has tiny glitter specks in it. The pieces have angular notches on them. Some have no orange paint, while the others have paint. They are thick and well worn with rounded edges.
Jody said
Aloha, Denise! Where did you find these treasures? That may give us a clue. Please feel free to send along a photo to oneshellofafind@gmail.com. We can have a look see then and maybe help you solve your mystery. JD