Whether you’re just visiting Florida or have lived here your whole life, beach combing is a common occurrence with so many places close by to search for shells. It can be very difficult to find that “perfect” shell to bring home and add to your existing collection, but did you know there’s a place you can go to see all kinds of perfect shells and marine life?
Let us introduce you to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium!
What is the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium?
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is located on Sanibel Island, one of the best shelling destinations in the world! The museum officially opened in 1995, and since then, its collection of shells has grown to nearly 600,000 specimens, one of the largest collections of its kind.
Fast forward to 2022, where the museum received accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Unfortunately, also within that year, the museum was hit by Hurricane Ian. With damage to their building, the museum decided to undertake a redesign and reinstallation of the shell exhibit.
What is there to do at the museum?
Great Hall of Shells
Phase 1 of the new exhibit features select shells from the museum’s enormous collection, with different shapes, colors, and evolution patterns from around the globe. In phase 2 of the exhibit renovation, there are exhibits of specific Southwest Florida shells based on record size, fossils, culture, conservation, and environmental impact. All of this is part of the Great Hall of Shells…