Any good beaches for shelling??

[mommapea]

We are looking for a day trip somewhere to a beach...and would love good shells!!! Sanibel is my obvious thought, but it's a little far? I thought that was a few hours a way.

Any other ideas? Traveling from Orlando back to Indy, we might stop somewhere on the way. Any other good beach ideas? Think family friendly, not terribly crowded, clean...thanks!

 

[bearzabout]

I found some nice shells on Lido Beach in Sarasota last month. There were also lots of sand dollars (my favorite).

Successful shelling really depends on the weather. Rough seas kick up the most shells. Also look up tide tables so you show up at the right time (low tide).

On calm days, plan on wading in the water for the best shells. I saw one person submerge a plastic storage box in the water to look through and then put their shells in. I thought it was a great idea. Snorkeling gear may be helpful.

Sarasota is south of Tampa, so not on your way up north. It is only about 2 hours from Orlando, west on I-4 to I75 south.

St. Armands Circle near Lido Beach is a great place to shop and have dinner. The area is very nice, but there has been a lot of beach erosion lately. The next beach rehab is scheduled for next summer.