Best Tips for Shelling
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Shelling is a favorite pastime and a popular activity for both locals and visitors in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Our beaches are located along the Gulf of Mexico, a body of saltwater brimming with an immense array of mollusks. Because of this, you’re likely to find and collect hundreds of shells from sand dollars to surf clams while exploring our shoreline, and we’ve got all the tips you need for shelling on Alabama’s beaches.
What Types of Shells Can I Find on Alabama's Beaches?
The shells you find on our beaches were once home to various mollusks, including clams, scallops, mussels, and oysters. These animals have no backbone and, therefore, need a shell to keep them supported and protected.
Below are some common shells found on Alabama’s beaches:
Prepare Your Shelling Tools for a Successful Trip
Bring the right shell-collecting tools to make your shelling in Gulf Shores more productive. Pack a mesh bag or bucket for collecting shells. Also, add sunscreen, water shoes, a small rake, and a guidebook for identifying shells to your packing list. These items will help you comfortably and efficiently gather seashells along the Gulf Coast shore.
Practice Responsible Shelling on Alabama Beaches
Please don’t forget that shells you find on our beaches were once homes and safe havens for living creatures. When searching our shores for shells, it's important to practice responsible shelling to protect our local marine life and environment and ensure future generations can enjoy this beloved pastime in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Be sure to follow these three guidelines when shelling.
Choose Uninhabited Shells
When shelling along our beaches, only take those that have washed up onshore and are no longer inhabited.
Keep Shells in the Surf
Please also avoid taking shells out of the surf to help us maintain the ecosystem. and protect our precious marine life.
Collect Moderately
Additionally, avoid collecting large quantities of shells to ensure that they remain available for future visitors and for the beach’s natural processes.
West Beach at Little Lagoon Pass
Lagoon Pass is a shallow waterway that connects Little Lagoon to the Gulf of Mexico. A haven for fishermen, shrimpers and more, West Beach at Little Lagoon Pass easily attracts mollusks looking to shed their shells. The distinct ecosystem in this area provides a wide array of shells that are not typically found in other places.
Fort Morgan Beaches
Where the Gulf meets Mobile Bay sits Fort Morgan. This part of the island offers several secluded beaches that are both large and home to a wide array of shells. The historical ambiance and natural beauty make shelling in Fort Morgan a unique experience.