While Florida may steal the spotlight for shelling, New England quietly offers its own coastal treasures—especially after storms or at low tide. From Connecticut to Cape Cod, here are the best beaches for shelling and the distinctive shells you’ll find along the way.

Best Shelling Beaches in New England

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park – Madison, CT

• Connecticut’s largest beach, known for its “singing beach” effect at Meigs Point.
• Best time to visit: After storms or during low tide.
• Shells found: Scallop shells, slipper shells, and jingle shells.

2. Wingaersheek Beach – Gloucester, MA

• A white-sand beach with tide pools and gentle waves, ideal for families.
• Shells found: Periwinkles, moon snails, and small clam shells.

3. Eel Point – Nantucket, MA

• Remote and quiet, this beach is a scallop shell haven.
• Shells found: Bay scallop shells, mussels, and occasional sand dollars.

4. Craigville Beach – Hyannis, MA

• Sandy shores lined with shells and seaweed.
• Shells found: Razor clams, quahogs, and surf clams.

5. Sandy Neck Beach – West Barnstable, MA

• A 6.5-mile stretch with dunes and marshes.
• Shells found: Whelks, slipper shells, and oyster shells.

Unique Shells of New England

Unlike tropical regions, New England’s shelling scene features cold-water species with subtle beauty and rich history:

 Tips for Successful Shelling

• Go at low tide for maximum exposure.
• After storms is prime time for rare finds.
• Bring water shoes—some beaches have sharp shell beds.
• Respect local rules about collecting shells, especially live ones.

New England’s shelling may be understated, but it’s rich in charm and discovery. Whether you're collecting for art, education, or pure joy, these beaches offer a coastal treasure hunt worth the trip.