Myrtle Beach Seashells: Where & What to Find

If you're heading to Myrtle Beach, get ready for more than just sunny skies and ocean waves—a world of seaside treasures is waiting for you! Finding shells along the shore is not only fun but also a great way to add a little adventure to your trip.

Whether you’re already staying at the oceanfront The Caravelle Resort or just starting to plan your Myrtle Beach vacation, hunting for shells is a memory-making activity you won’t want to miss. From rare finds to colorful keepsakes, there’s so much to uncover.

Best Time to Go Shelling at Myrtle Beach

Timing is everything when it comes to seashell hunting. For the best haul, plan your hunt during the right conditions.

• Low Tide: The receding waters expose more of the ocean floor, revealing shells that are typically underwater. Check local tide charts for the best times.


• Early Morning: Be the first to explore untouched stretches of sand before the best shells get picked over by other beachgoers.


• After a Storm: Strong waves often churn up hidden treasures, depositing a bounty of shells onshore.


• Full Moon or New Moon: Lunar phases play a significant role in shell hunting. Both the full moon and new moon create stronger tidal movements, known as spring tides. These extreme low tides expose more of the seabed, offering a greater chance of finding unique and plentiful shells.

The cooler months, such as late fall and early spring, are particularly good for shell hunting as the beaches are less crowded, and storms are more frequent.

Shells You’ll Find in Myrtle Beach

The Myrtle Beach area is home to an array of seashells, each with its own unique beauty and story. Here are common shells to discover!

Lettered Olive

Photo Credit: Yingna Cai

The Lettered Olive, South Carolina’s state shell, is a smooth, shiny, and elongated beauty adorned with subtle tan or brown patterns. This polished shell – a popular home for sea snails – often catches the light, making it a striking find along the shore. These treasures are frequently uncovered by shifting sands, especially after storms or during low tide.

Sand Dollars

Sand dollars are flat, round skeletons of a type of sea urchin, easily recognized by their intricate star-like patterns. Their delicate, bleached appearance makes them a favorite among collectors. If you find one that’s fuzzy or slightly greenish, it’s still alive and should be returned to the ocean to continue its important role in the ecosystem.

Starfish

While not a shell, starfish are among the most iconic seaside discoveries. Their five-armed symmetry and textured surface make them fascinating to spot. Since they are living creatures, it’s important to handle them gently and return them to the water if they’re still alive, ensuring they thrive in their natural habitat.

Atlantic Moon Snail Shell

The Atlantic Moon Snail Shell is large, spherical, and features a mesmerizing swirling pattern. These shells are home to predatory snails that bore tiny holes into other shells to feed. Their smooth, robust design makes them a prized addition to any shell collection.

Heart Cockles

Photo Credit: budak via Flickr CC 2.0

Heart cockle shells are aptly named for their heart-like shape when viewed from the side. With ridges running along their surface, these clam shells are commonly found in sandy areas. Their distinct shape and size make them a delightful find for shell seekers of all ages.

Eastern Auger Shells

Auger shells are slender, cone-shaped shells with a tightly spiraled design that resembles a screw or drill bit. Typically found in shades of cream, white, or light brown, these small but striking shells are the homes of auger snails, which burrow in sandy areas. Their unique shape makes them a favorite for collectors and jewelry makers.

Whelk Shells

Photo Credit: Italian Food Production

Whelk shells are impressive, spiral-shaped finds that often stand out due to their larger size and bold colors, typically in shades of orange and brown. These striking shells are homes for sea snails and are often mistaken for conch shells. Their intricate spiral design makes them a standout piece in any shell collection.

Banded Tulip

The Banded Tulip shell is a smaller, elegant spiral adorned with distinct, colorful bands. These shells are home to tulip snails, which thrive in sandy or muddy areas. Their eye-catching patterns make them a delightful and often unexpected discovery on the beach.

Calico Scallop

Calico scallops are fan-shaped and beautifully patterned with pink, purple, or orange speckles. These shells, which belong to a species of bivalve mollusk, are a colorful and artistic addition to any collection. Their vibrant designs often resemble miniature works of art crafted by the sea.

Coquina Clams

Photo Credit: FOTOADICTA

Coquina clams are tiny but incredibly colorful shells, often found in clusters along the shore. Their pastel stripes create an almost rainbow-like effect, making them especially attractive to beachgoers. These small clams are often seen burrowing back into the sand after waves deposit them onshore, a fascinating sight for curious shell hunters.

Sea Glass

Sea glass is a favorite find among beachcombers, with its smooth, frosted appearance and beautiful colors like green, blue, and amber. These pieces of broken glass have been tumbled by the waves and sand, turning sharp shards into softened, gem-like treasures. Sea glass is perfect for crafting jewelry or as a keepsake to remember your trip.

Shark Teeth

Not quite a shell, but if you are lucky, you’ll find these in the mix of shell hunting– like uncovering a piece of natural history! These small, fossilized teeth are often black or dark brown and can range in size from tiny specks to larger specimens. Look for them in the sifted sands near the water’s edge or along shell beds.

Best Beaches to Find Seashells in Myrtle Beach

Now that you know the best time for shelling and what to look for, here are the best beaches for seashell hunting!

1. The Caravelle Resort Beach

Step right outside your room at The Caravelle Resort, and you’ll find an ideal spot for shell hunting! The resort’s prime oceanfront location gives guests easy access to a stretch of beach that’s perfect for discovering treasures like coquina clams, jingle shells, and even sea glass.

Take an early morning walk along the shore to be among the first to explore what the tides have left behind. It’s the perfect way to start your day with a dose of seaside serenity and adventure.

2. Myrtle Beach State Park

Photo Credit: PQK

A hidden gem for shell seekers! Myrtle Beach State Park’s relatively untouched shoreline is perfect for finding sand dollars, whelks, and coquina clams. The inexpensive entrance fee also gives you access to trails and picnic areas for a full day of fun.

3. Cherry Grove Beach

This spot offers calm waters and plenty of tidal pools, making it an excellent destination for families. Keep an eye out for moon snail shells and banded tulips.

4. Surfside Beach

Just south of Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is less crowded and ideal for finding larger shells like whelks and heart cockles. Early mornings here are magical.

5. Huntington Beach State Park

Known for its quieter atmosphere, this beach is a treasure trove for shell enthusiasts. Wander along the shoreline and explore the inlets where shells often collect.

6. Pawleys Island

The serene shores of Pawleys Island are a haven for shell hunters. This sleepy beach town means more natural finds like starfish and scallops.

Your Next Shelling Adventure Awaits at The Caravelle Resort

After a day of beachcombing, head back to The Caravelle Resort to unwind. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, refreshing pools, and on-site dining that will complete your perfect Myrtle Beach getaway. Don’t just visit Myrtle Beach—immerse yourself in its natural beauty and seaside treasures. Book your stay at The Caravelle Resort today!