If you’re visiting Isle of Palms, shell hunting is one of the simplest and most rewarding beach activities.

Best hunting hints:

  • Go within an hour of low tide for the best results.
  • Visit early in the morning before beaches become crowded.
  • Check the beach after storms or strong onshore winds.
  • Leave any shells that are still occupied by living creatures.

What you might find:

  • Lettered olives (South Carolina’s state shell)
  • Angel wings
  • Whelks
  • Scotch bonnets
  • Coquina shells
  • Sand dollars
  • Shark teeth near shell beds and tide pools

Whether you’re searching for a perfect shell or just enjoying a walk on the beach, Isle of Palms offers plenty of opportunities to discover treasures left behind by the ocean.