I am looking for a beach to go shelling along the gulf coast. What time do I need to get there to get good shells, and where is the best beach for it along the gulf coast? ANy help is appreciated.

Sanibel is supposed to be the best along the Florida gulf coast. The shelling in Sanibel was great years ago. The best time would be at low tide after the high tide brings up the shells onto the beach.

Have fune!

And then, as early in the morning as you can get up. You snooze, you lose. We're talking just barely daybreak in Sanibel, where shellers are a dedicated lot, and there is even a name for the posture one assumes for this sport...the Sanibel Stoop.

We found a uninhabited island Shell Key that had many shells,full sand dollars. There are ferries to get there ours was out of St.Pete Beach. We went for the day and we're very pleased with the shells/sand dollars! There is a bird sanctuary in middle of island also. The kids want to return again!

Hi jason, we were in Sanibel a year ago and though we found some nice shells, and though the beaches are literally composed of millions of (miniscule) shells, it still helps to have a big old storm to stir things up and move the shells towards shore. Good Luck, and may you find the rare junonia!