Discovering the Treasures of Southwest Florida: A Seashell Lover’s Paradise with Get Up and Go Kayaking Naples

If you’re an avid seashell collector or someone looking to explore the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Get Up and Go Kayaking Naples offers a unique and exciting opportunity to combine kayaking with seashell collecting. Their guided tours provide an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s breathtaking coastal scenery while searching for beautiful seashells. The tour stops at a pristine beach where you can get out to stretch your legs, enjoy the stunning Gulf of Mexico coastline and hunt for the special treasures.

Southwest Florida, with its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and beachcombers alike. One of the most enchanting aspects of this region is the incredible variety and abundance of seashells that can be found along its shores. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply appreciate the beauty of nature’s creations, exploring the seashells of Southwest Florida is an unforgettable experience.

You will find a wide variety of seashells adorning the beaches. Here are some common types of seashells found in this region:

1 Lightning Whelk. (Busycon sinistrum): The lightning whelk is one of the most iconic shells in Southwest Florida. It has a spiral shape with distinctive lightning-like patterns, hence its name. These shells can grow quite large and are prized by collectors for their beauty.

2. Alphabet Cone (Conus spurius): The alphabet cone is a striking shell known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. It has a cone-shaped shell with raised spiral ridges and is highly sought after by collectors for its unique appearance.

3. Calico Scallop (Argopecten gibbus): The calico scallop is a scallop shell with stunning patterns of alternating colors, usually orange, yellow, and white. They are often found in abundance along the sandy shores of Southwest Florida.

4. Tulip Shell (Fasciolaria tulipa): The tulip shell is an elegant and elongated shell with a glossy surface. It features a characteristic tulip-like shape and can vary in color from cream to dark brown. These shells are prized by collectors for their graceful appearance.

5. Lion’s Paw (Nodipecten nodosus): The lion’s paw shell is renowned for its scalloped edges and its resemblance to a lion’s paw, hence its name. These shells have a rich brown color with intricate patterns and are considered highly desirable by collectors.

6. Junonia (Scaphella junonia): The junonia shell is a rare find along the Southwest Florida beaches, making it a prized discovery for shell collectors. It features a distinctively smooth, oval-shaped shell with beautiful brown spots on a creamy background.

7. Fighting Conch (Strombus alatus): The fighting conch is a sturdy, spiral shell with pronounced ridges and thick, spiky knobs. These shells are commonly found along the shores of Southwest Florida and are often used for decorative purposes.

8. Shark’s Eye (Neverita duplicata): The shark’s eye shell is a smooth, round shell with brownish coloration and a distinctive pattern resembling an eye. It is commonly found in the sandy beaches of Southwest Florida and is treasured by collectors for its unique appearance.

9. Sand Dollar (Echinarachnius parma): While technically not a seashell, the sand dollar is a fascinating and delicate marine organism commonly found along the shores of Southwest Florida. These flat, round skeletons have a distinctive five-pointed pattern and are frequently collected as souvenirs.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum has a great shell guide to help you identify all the treasures you find on your Get Up and Go Kayaking beach stop adventure.  The museum also has a free app you can download to your phone to help identity shells on the beach as you see them.  Simply search for Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum where you get your apps.

Remember to only collect empty shells and respect the natural environment while exploring Southwest Florida’s beaches. Enjoy the thrill of discovering these exquisite seashells while appreciating the beauty and diversity of the region’s coastal ecosystem.

The combination of kayaking, seashell collecting, and exploring Southwest Florida’s stunning coastal scenery creates unforgettable memories. Whether you’re kayaking through mangrove tunnels, observing local wildlife, or discovering seashells along the way, Get Up and Go Kayaking Naples offers an adventure that connects you with nature and leaves a lasting impression.