beach days/shelling recommendations

[Grym]

So we will be arriving a couple days prior to our Disney Park days and before heading onto Disney property we plan on heading out of Orlando and staying on a beach for a couple days. Atlantic-side? Gulf-side? Honestly, we don't know yet and I'm hoping for suggestions. Some criteria we're looking into:

- Hopefully staying within about a 2 hour drive from Orlando.
- Kids aged 4 and 6 y/o.
- The kids really really want to find shells or shark teeth or something...so shelling opportunities for the kids. Doesn't have to be the best shell place; any shells will get them excited, I'm sure.
- We'd like a sandy beach location (easy entry so the kiddos can maybe begin to learn how to snorkel/use goggles. I realize there's no reef or anything nearby. we just hope to begin teaching them and getting them more comfortable since we love snorkeling/SCUBA trips)
- Beach amenities aren't all that important to us. I'd much prefer a laid back locale with nothing available than a super crowded beach with every service imaginable

Any suggestions on a beach/area to look into?

 

[nacho113]

For snorkeling you will want to go Gulf coast. The water is much calmer than the Atlantic beaches.
Some small shells but not a lot because wave action is limited so not much washes up.
We like Clearwater Beach as our stop while visiting the Gulf Coast, lots to do and see.
Other nice beaches in this area, Treasure Island, St Pete's Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Bellair Beach.
Gulf Coast beaches are about a 2 hour drive from WDW (west on I-4)

If you're looking for waves to frolic in, then the Atlantic Coast beaches are your destination (Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach).
Usually more shells on the Atlantic side and larger shells due to the higher waves.
Cocoa Beach is aprox a 60 minute drive from WDW and $5-$6 tolls.
Daytona is about a 90 minute drive (east on I-4)

If you are going further afield, Miami Beach, Hollywood Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach are all really nice too.

 

[Ametista]

There are a ton of small shells at St Pete, plus it's a beautiful beach with almost no waves. You will also find bones from large fish and sea turtle nest (taped off). Perfect for learning to snorkel.

 

[Grym]

Thanks for the insights. They give me some leads to research for planning. Very much appreciated!