Can you take empty shells from Sanibel Island?

Seashells are so important to the islands' chain of life that the State of Florida has outlawed the collection of live shells (with inhabitants) as well as living sand dollars, starfish and sea urchins. Shellers are encouraged to limit their empty-shell haul.



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For example, some experts say the removal of shells can impact shoreline erosion patterns. This could have dire effects on coastal populations, especially in combination with global warming and rising sea levels. Not only that, but every shell performs some ecological role.

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Prohibited Sea Life The Bahama Starfish and Queen Conch are always prohibited, unless the Queen conch shell is already empty. It's unlikely you would find this shell just sitting on the beach!

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Seashell Treasure Hunt Sand dollars, moon snails, conch shells, pin shells, periwinkles, whelk and olive shells are just a few of the indigenous seashells found here. And, as long as there are no creatures living in them, there is no limit to how many of these one-of-a-kind souvenirs you can take home with you.

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The FEMA 50% rule is a minimum requirement for participation in the NFIP. It limits the cost of improvements (additions, alterations, and/or repairs) to non-conforming structures to less than 50% of the “market value” of structure prior to the start of work.

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Turner Beach is the best shelling beach on Sanibel and the Captiva islands. Its relatively low number of visitors and rare variety of seashells make it a haven for all shellers. Whether you are starting your collection or adding to your current one, make the trip past all the other astounding beaches.

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Shell-lovers from all over the world make pilgrimages to tiny Sanibel Island's Gulf Coast, considered the best shelling spot in North America according to Travel & Leisure Magazine.

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You shouldn't have any problem as long as they are clean and don't smell. If you collected these yourself from a beach within the EU they aren't likely to be from endangered species, which would be the only probable reason for any restriction.

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Explosives and flammable items, such as fireworks, gas, and aerosols. Poisonous and toxic substances, including pesticides and certain chemicals. Lithium batteries and other hazardous materials, as these can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

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