Shelling in Coastal Georgia: A Guide to the Best Spots Coastal Georgia's beaches are renowned for their bounty of beautiful shells, making shelling a must-do activity for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Shelling in Coastal Georgia: A Guide to the Best Spots

Coastal Georgia's beaches are renowned for their bounty of beautiful shells, making shelling a must-do activity for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From the picturesque shores of Tybee Island to the pristine stretches of coastline along the Golden Isles, this region is a treasure trove of seashells waiting to be discovered.

Best Spots for Shelling

• Tybee Island: Located just 18 miles east of Savannah, Tybee Island's beaches are a haven for shell collectors. The island's tidal flats and sandy shores are home to an array of shells, including conchs, scallops, clams, and sand dollars.
• St. Simons Island: With its gentle slopes and calm waters, St. Simons Island is an ideal spot for shelling. Look for shells like whelks, oyster shells, and sand dollars along the beach's western shore.
• Jekyll Island: This picturesque island offers a range of beaches perfect for shelling, including Driftwood Beach and Mullet Creek Beach. Keep an eye out for sharks' teeth, scallop shells, and other treasures.

Tips and Tricks

• Tide Times: Shelling is best during low tide when the ocean exposes more of the beach and its treasures.
• Beachcombing: Walk along the beach at a leisurely pace, scanning the sand for shells and other interesting finds.
• Seasonal Variations: Shelling is possible year-round in Coastal Georgia, but the best months are September to November and March to May when the weather is mild and the ocean is calmer.

What to Expect

When shelling in Coastal Georgia, you can expect to find a variety of shells, including:

• Conchs
• Scallops
• Clams
• Sand dollars
• Whelks
• Oyster shells

Be sure to check local regulations and permits required for collecting certain types of shells.

Practical Information

Hours: Vary by location; best time is during low tide. Fees: None; free admission to beaches. Location Hints: Accessible via US-80 (Tybee Island), GA-520 (St. Simons Island), and GA-520 (Jekyll Island).