If you didn’t know – we’re serious about our seashells around here! Sanibel has been dubbed the “Shell Capital of the World,” and it’s a pretty big deal. So big, in fact, that the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel have declared June 20, the first day of Summer, as a new holiday: National Seashell Day!
Let’s Shellebrate!
To prepare for the shellebration, you should practice your best “Sanibel Stoop” or “Captiva Crouch.” If you are unsure about the proper form, don’t hesitate to ask any island resident or frequent visitor – we’re super friendly and always happy to help newcomers.
I suggest warming up with a few jumping jacks and arm stretches before hitting the beaches in search of new island treasures. There are more than 50 miles of sandy white beaches to explore here in Southwest Florida – don’t try to tackle it all in one day!
Image courtesy of sanibel-captiva.org
Become a Shellexpert!
Here on Sanibel, there are a number of resources to feed your shell-education. Actually, Sanibel is home to the only Shell Museum in the nation! If you haven’t been, it’s worth your while to tour the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on SanCap Road. You can read all about my trip to the one-of-a-kind museum in our blog post, Welcome To Shell Wonderland.
The Shell Museum is a great resource on island – but, how can you expand your knowledge before you get here? I’m glad you asked! There happens to be a wonderful shell enthusiast on the island, Pam Rambo, who has an extreme passion and understanding for seashells… in fact, she has become quite the shellebrity on Sanibel!
You can visit her website, iloveshelling.com to explore the great articles, photos and information Pam has shared about her shelling experiences not only on our beautiful barriers island, but world-wide.
Image courtesy of facebook.com/iloveshelling
More About National Seashell Day 2016
Don’t delay, a number of hotels and resorts in the area are offering special National Seashell Day packages for visitors! Click here to enter the Shell Yeah! Sweepstakes for a chance to win a 3-night vacation for four at the Sanibel Inn.
Hotels aren’t the only one’s getting in on the fun… a number of island attractions are also offering National Seashell Day deals including special boat excursions and beach-combing events. There’s sure to be something fun for everyone!
Image courtesy of fortmyers-sanibel.com