Carolina Beach, located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, is a haven for beachcombers and shell enthusiasts. The sandy shores of this beautiful coastal town are adorned with a wide variety of seashells, each with its unique beauty and story to tell. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 seashells you can find in Carolina Beach and offer tips on how to identify and collect these coastal treasures.

1. Conch Shells (Strombus spp.): Conch shells are among the most iconic seashells found in Carolina Beach. These large, spiral-shaped shells are often prized for their intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Look for lightning whelk shells (a type of conch) with their distinctive spiral and rough texture. Conch shells make beautiful decorative pieces and are often used in crafts.

2. Whelk Shells (Family Buccinidae): Whelk shells are commonly found along the Carolina Beach shoreline. They come in various sizes, with the knobbed whelk being one of the largest and most recognizable. These shells are characterized by their elongated spiral shape and often have an attractive glossy finish.

3. Scotch Bonnet Shells (Semicassis granulata): Scotch bonnet shells are small, thick-shelled gems that are highly sought after by collectors. They are named for their distinctive shape, which resembles a Scottish bonnet or tam o’shanter hat. These shells are usually cream-colored with brownish markings and can be found in the surf line.

4. Olive Shells (Oliva spp.): Olive shells are small, elongated shells with a glossy appearance and a distinctive olive-like shape. They come in various shades, from creamy white to deep brown. These shells are often considered prized finds for their unique appearance.

5. Angel Wing Shells (Cyrtopleura costata): Angel wing shells are named for their delicate, angelic appearance. They are thin, flat, and resemble the wings of an angel. These shells are typically white and can grow quite large. Look for them just below the tide line or partially buried in the sand.

6. Sand Dollar Skeletons (Echinarachnius parma): While not technically seashells, sand dollar skeletons are commonly found on the beaches of Carolina Beach. These circular, flat, and fragile remains of sand dollars are fascinating to collect. They are often white or pale gray and are treasured for their intricate five-fold radial pattern.

7. Cockle Shells (Family Cardiidae): Cockle shells are heart-shaped bivalves that come in various sizes and colors, including white, pink, and purple. Their distinct symmetry and unique shape make them a favorite among collectors. Cockle shells are often found in shallow waters and near the shoreline.

8. Auger Shells (Family Terebridae): Auger shells are elongated, slender shells with a pronounced spiral pattern. They are typically small but can come in various colors, including shades of brown, white, and gray. These shells are known for their intricate spirals and are often found in the surf zone.

9. Scallop Shells (Argopecten gibbus): Calico scallops are found in coastal waters of the eastern U.S. states from Maryland to Florida, throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil. Calico scallops generally live in depths from 10 to 400 meters (30 to 1,200 feet) on sandy or shelled bottoms.

10. Moon Snail Shells (Family Naticidae): Moon snail shells are thick, round shells with a small, flat spiral on one side. They often have a matte appearance and come in various colors, including gray, brown, and tan. These shells are named for their resemblance to the full moon and can be found in the tidal zone.

Tips for Shell Collecting in Carolina Beach:

• The best time for shell collecting is during low tide when more shells are exposed along the shoreline.
• Bring a mesh bag or bucket to collect and carry your finds.
• Respect local regulations and environmental guidelines when collecting shells, and never take live shells or creatures.
• Handle shells with care, as some may be fragile or contain living organisms.
• Remember that shelling is an enjoyable way to connect with nature and the coastal environment. Leave no trace and help preserve the beauty of Carolina Beach for future generations to enjoy.

Carolina Beach offers a treasure trove of seashells waiting to be discovered and appreciated. Each of these top 10 seashells has its unique charm, making shell collecting an exciting and rewarding activity for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an experienced collector or a beginner, the Carolina Beach shoreline promises a delightful experience of exploration and appreciation for the wonders of the sea.

We’d love to see what shells you and your family collect! Tag us @thesunriseshacknc in your Carolina Beach shelling Facebook and Instagram posts!