Most shops and gas stations in coastal towns carry tide books. Stop in and grab one; they usually are free. The book will have timetables of high tides and low tides. Once high tide ebbs, a variety of shells litter the beach. Low tide gives ample time to search for shells. Using a mesh bag to hold your shells will allow sand to filter through and will not weigh the bag down. The mesh material dries more quickly in the sun then a conventional beach bag.
Beaches are home to many creatures including the seemingly abandoned shells. To be sure the shell is vacant of its owner, place the shell in a shallow area of the seawater. If the shell is occupied the creature will appear once it feels safe to check out the surroundings. This should occur within a few minutes. If nothing appears, the shell is yours for the taking.
Wearing sturdy boots while exploring rocky shores will prevent less slipping on slick surfaces. Crevices created in between boulders and rocks hold a treasure trove of shells. Give yourself plenty of time to explore and be certain high tide is hours away. Remain aware of your surroundings; high tide can sneak up on you. Avoid gathering shells in tide pools. Most contain a living creature, unless you spot an opened clam shell or a shark's tooth. A shark's tooth resembles a small, curved spear and the color can vary from white to pitch black.
Cleaning the shells with warm, soapy water eliminates odors caused by algae and the creatures that inhabited the shells. Dry the shells in the sun on newspaper or paper towels. Once the shells are dry, the possibilities for crafts or decorations are endless by allowing your creativity to flow.
