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, the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel has declared June 20, the first day of Summer, as National Seashell Day!
Let’s Celebrate!
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
National Seashell Day is a great chance to relax and take a moment to appreciate the beautiful shells that wash ashore on Sanibel Island. As the holiday gains more attention, there’s more fun to be had! For instance, some local hotels and businesses have started giving discounts in celebration of National Seashell Day!
In 2018 we even broke the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title, the Largest human image of a seashell! Click here to read our blog: We’ve Got The Guinness World Record!
Get in on the fun!
Even if you are not here in Southwest Florida to celebrate in person, there are fun ways to participate virtually. For more information on the events and happenings surrounding National Seashell Day, visit the Beaches of Sanibel & Fort Myers website here.
Image courtesy of fortmyers-sanibel.com
