The Online Guide for vacationing on Sanibel and Captiva Island Florida. Sanibel and Captiva Island Frequently Asked Questions. Nothing could better describe the shell rich beaches waiting for you. With over 400 species of shells, Sanibel beaches are considered the best shelling beaches in North America. These shells wash up on Sanibel beaches becaues unlike other barrier islands which run North to South, Sanibel runs East to West.
Winter is the best time for shelling on the islands.
Winter storms help push the shells along the shallow plaueau of sand along the Gulf of Mexico and deposit them along the beachs for you to find. Shelling is usually best 2 hours prior to low tide. Walking a zigzag patern from the low to high tide mark will produce the best finds. If you wish to visit the outer islands, a local Charter Captain can help you. These captains will take you to North Captiva and Cayo Costa which can only be visited via boat.