Must Do Fort Myers Sanibel Captiva Winter/Spring 2018 visitor guide

Sanibel Island –
Top Shelling Destination in the USA
By: Gillian Birch
Visitors to Sanibel Island are constantly
surprised by the exceptional quantity
and variety of seashells that wash up
daily on Sanibel’s sandy coastline.
This is due to the island jutting out
into the Gulf of Mexico on a shallow
underwater plateau. Lying in an
east-west orientation, the island
traps a large number of shells that
are stirred up by tides and waves and
deposited in abundance on Sanibel’s
white sand beaches.
Sanibel’s seashells attract thousands of shell collectors who can be seen performing the “Sanibel stoop” as
they comb the waterline in search of that special seashell. Altogether more than 400 different varieties of shells
can be found along with sand dollars, tiny pieces of coral, and starfish.
You need to invest in a shell identification chart or book to identify your treasures. Look for periwinkles, whelks, baby’s
ears, slipper shells, spiny jewel boxes, spiky murex, conchs, coquinas, cockles, clams, and the very collectible alphabet
cones where the patterns form certain letters.
Tips for
Shelling on Sanibel
Generally the outer islands have the best shells as fewer
people visit them. On Sanibel Island the lighthouse
(eastern) end has mainly smaller shells while Captiva
Island generally attracts larger ones. Low tide is the best
time to wade out and search for new shells, or search the
tideline after stormy weather.
JENNIFER BRINKMAN
Beach
Safety
These Beach Tips are great to know – they may even
save a family member or your life.
Don’t Swim
Against a Rip Current
If a rip current is pulling you out to sea, swimming against
it will only make you tired. Instead, swim out of the current
parallel to shore. Once out, swim back to shore.
Know The Signs of Drowning
Drowning can be a quiet process. No breathing means
no calling for help. Because humans instinctively push
their arms into the water, a drowning victim may not
be able to wave for help. So, whether someone is flailing
frantically for help or quietly bobbing at the surface
with their mouth submerged and arms extended
horizontally, ask them if they’re alright, if they cannot
answer, help them or get help quickly.
Protect Your Neck
To avoid serious neck injuries never dive into unknown
waters. Remember “first time, feet first”.
SHUTTERSTOCK
MARY CAROL FITZGERALD
It’s a good idea to wear sandals to avoid treading on
sharp shells or stingrays buried in the sand. Take a bucket
to collect your finds and check each shell is empty before
adding it to your collection.
Seashells can smell if not properly cleaned. Soak all your
shells in a bucket of 50-50 bleach and water. Once the
flaky covering (periostracum) has gone, remove the
shells, rinse and let them dry. File any rough edges if
you wish and give the shells a shine by wiping them with
baby oil.
JENNIFER BRINKMAN
Never Turn Your Back to the Waves
Don’t let a carefree attitude get you swept up by a
sneaky wave. Even on a calm day, always keep an eye on
the surf to avoid injuries.
SHUTTERSTOCK
12 WINTER | SPRING 2018 MustDo.com