Cocoa Beach, located on the Space Coast of Florida, is a popular destination for beachgoers and shell enthusiasts alike. With its gradual slope of sand and gentle surf, Cocoa Beach can be a great spot for shelling, though the abundance and variety of shells found can vary depending on various factors.
The Shelling Experience at Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is known for having a more gradual slope of sand, which can create a more comfortable shelling experience compared to beaches with steeper slopes. This gentle slope can make it easier to access the shoreline and search for seashells. However, the type and abundance of shells found can be influenced by factors such as tides, seasons, and weather conditions.
According to a Reddit post, Cocoa Beach can have an “insane amount of shells” at times, particularly after strong winds and high tides. Beachgoers have reported finding a variety of shells, including scallops, conchs, and sand dollars. However, it’s worth noting that finding intact conchs and sand dollars, similar to those found on the Gulf Coast, can be more challenging.
Comparing Cocoa Beach to the Gulf Coast
While Cocoa Beach can offer a good shelling experience, it is generally considered that the Gulf Coast, particularly areas like Sanibel and Captiva, is better for shelling. TripAdvisor users have reported finding mostly smaller and more common types of shells on Cocoa Beach, with the Gulf Coast offering a more diverse and abundant selection.
Common Shells Found on Cocoa Beach
One of the more common shells found on Cocoa Beach is the Jingle Shell, also known as the saddled oyster or mermaid’s toenail. These thin, translucent shells have a pearl-like interior and make a jingling sound when shaken together. Jingle Shells are a signature find along the Space Coast.
Guided Shelling Experiences
For those interested in a more structured shelling experience, there are tour boats available in the Cocoa Beach area that offer guided shelling excursions. These tours can take visitors to designated shelling hotspots, providing the opportunity to explore and collect a variety of shells.
Factors Affecting Shelling Success
The best time for shelling on Cocoa Beach is often after a storm and during low tide. Strong winds and high tides can bring in a larger variety and abundance of shells, while low tide can expose more shells along the shoreline.
Conclusion
In summary, Cocoa Beach can be a good destination for shelling, but it may not offer the same level of diversity and abundance as the Gulf Coast. The gradual slope of the beach can make for a comfortable shelling experience, and Jingle Shells are a common find. However, the availability and variety of shells can be influenced by various factors, and guided shelling tours are available for those seeking a more structured experience.
References:
– The Space Coast Seashell Guide Part 1, Visit Space Coast, https://www.visitspacecoast.com/blog/the-space-coast-seashell-guide-part-1/
– Top 5 Things to do in Cocoa Beach | Soul Shells Sea Glass, Indigo Sea Glass, https://indigoseaglass.com/about-cocoa-beach/
– Cocoa beach has an insane amount of shells : r/florida – Reddit, Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/florida/comments/jvli5s/cocoa_beach_has_an_insane_amount_of_shells/
– Best beach for shelling in or near Orlando – Trip Advisor, Trip Advisor, https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k13476513-Best_beach_for_shelling_in_or_near_Orlando-Orlando_Florida.html
– Finding Shells – Cocoa Beach Forum – Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor, https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34145-i316-k3717095-Finding_Shells-Cocoa_Beach_Brevard_County_Florida.html