What Is Beachcombing, and Why Do People Like It?

Photo © Stars & Anchor
An introduction to the world of beachcombing.
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- What is beachcombing?
- Why do people like beachcombing?
- What is a beachcomber?
- What is the difference between beachcombing and shelling?
- Tips for responsible beachcombing and shelling
- A little about my beachcombing philosophy and what I do with my finds
- Save This Explanation of “What is Beachcombing?” for Later

I’ve lived in coastal areas all of my life, so I’ve been beachcombing practically since I could walk. It’s always been one of my favorite activities. Here I’m answering some common questions like, “what is beachcombing?” and “what is a beachcomber?” I’m also sharing important tips for responsible beachcombing and shelling, and a bit about my personal beachcombing philosophy and what I do with my beachcombing finds.
What is beachcombing?
First of all, what is beachcombing? Beachcombing means searching (“combing”) and exploring the intertidal zone of the beach to see what natural and man-made objects of interest you can discover. The intertidal zone is the area of the shoreline between where the water peaks at high tide and where it reaches at low tide. You can even make discoveries higher up on the dry sand, though less frequently. You can enjoy discovering things while beachcombing without necessarily needing to take anything. The fun is in the search and in learning about the coastline and its many creatures.
What can you find while beachcombing? Some common items to find while beachcombing are seashells, rocks, seaweed, mermaid’s purses (the egg cases of skates and rays), crabs, jellyfish, driftwood, snails, sea glass, sea sponges, fossils, and manmade debris. You can see the most interesting manmade items I found while beachcombing last year in this post.

Photo © Stars & Anchor
Why do people like beachcombing?
Beachcombing combines relaxation, exploration, and discovery in an enjoyable way. The thrill of searching for unique finds while enjoying the sights and sounds of the beach, like the peaceful rhythm of the waves, makes it a perfect activity for unwinding and satisfying curiosity. Beachcombing also offers a connection to nature, the ocean, and a way to learn more about marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Beachcombing appeals to many people, being perfect for going on adventures solo or taking group walks. Its universal appeal lies in being equally engaging for kids and adults, making it a way to have family-friendly fun for all ages.
What is a beachcomber?
Now that you know what beachcombing is, you can probably guess that a beachcomber is someone who goes beachcombing, meaning a person who walks along the beach looking for interesting and unique items. You can be a casual beachcomber, such as someone who decides to look at what the sea is washing onto the shore while on a beach vacation, or you can be a dedicated beachcomber, such as someone who is passionate about discovering and learning about what’s on the beach and does so frequently.
Beachcombing can be a fun and inexpensive hobby for anyone who lives near the coast. It’s an activity enjoyed by families, nature enthusiasts, retirees, and collectors, making it an appealing hobby for all ages, as anyone can be a beachcomber, young or old.
What is the difference between beachcombing and shelling?
Beachcombing and shelling are similar beach activities. Beachcombing is a broader activity that involves searching the shoreline for numerous items including shells, rocks, driftwood, sea glass, and other natural or manmade items, whereas shelling is a specific type of beachcombing that focuses exclusively on looking for seashells. Beachcombing attracts people who appreciate the diversity of what they’ll find along the shoreline, and shelling attracts shell enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty and variety of shells.

Photo © Stars & Anchor
Tips for responsible beachcombing and shelling
- Leave no trace. This means leave no signs that you were ever there. Leave wildlife undisturbed, don’t take more from the beach than you need, make sure shells are empty before taking them — never take a shell with a living creature in it — and take your trash with you.
- Respect the coastal ecosystem. I came across a post recently where someone shared that they brought an entire suitcase of shells home from vacation, and it broke my heart. This included a type of shell that is frequently inhabited by hermit crabs. Imagine the impact on a beach’s delicate ecosystem if every visitor did that. Many shells provide vital habitats for marine life or play a role in stabilizing the shoreline. I’m all for taking a few meaningful finds, but removing excessive amounts disrupts the balance of nature and can harm the wildlife that relies on those shells for shelter and protection.
- Know the local rules. Look online for local regulations on beachcombing whenever you go to a new beach. Follow all local guidelines regarding shell collecting and removal, and if taking any specific types of shells is regulated. Respect protected coastal areas where collecting is prohibited. You can still look and enjoy what you see without taking anything.
- Play a part in keeping the beach beautiful. Bring an extra bag to pick up any trash that you come across while you walk.
A little about my beachcombing philosophy and what I do with my finds
Even though I’m a frequent beachcomber, I leave behind the majority of cool things that I find. I frequently take pictures of items I come across and like, but leave them on the beach. This is because I try to be conscious of maintaining the beach ecosystem, and not taking excessively.
I’m more likely to take sea glass and beach pottery since these are man-made items that don’t naturally exist at the beach, and are actually litter, even though they’re desirable to beachcombers like me! I’m more likely to leave shells, driftwood, and rocks, because they naturally belong there, and shells can serve as homes for sea creatures like hermit crabs.
Sometimes, I’ll take home shells or other natural finds so I can research and identify them, photograph them, and then return them to the beach. I like learning about them and cataloging them with a photograph, but don’t have the space or desire to store so many items in my home indefinitely. Living in walking distance to the beach makes this an easy process. Of course, any shell I take is first thoroughly checked to be sure it’s empty without any creatures inside.
I keep some items if a shell or rock feels really special to me. I’m trying to have one really good example of every kind of shell on the beach, so I’m constantly swapping them out if I find a better one. I use some of my beachcombing discoveries as coastal decor around my beach house. I try to do this in moderation, which still feels like plenty because deciding to keep a few special shells here and there adds up over a lifetime of beachcombing. If I ever decide I don’t want something anymore, I return it to the beach instead of putting it in the trash or storing it hidden away where it won’t be enjoyed.
I believe you can have fun beachcombing and enjoying some of your finds while being respectful to coastal wildlife, the beach environment and ecosystem.
Related: Best of Beachcombing: My Favorite Shells, Sea Glass, and Beach Pottery Finds of the Year
Beachcombing is one of those activities that’s equal parts relaxing and exciting. You get to wander the shoreline, soaking in the peaceful sound of the waves while keeping an eye out for little treasures that have washed up. It’s a great mix of slowing down and feeling a little thrill of discovery when you spot something unique, and a way to have a connection with the ocean.
When we spend time at the beach, it’s so important to be mindful of the wildlife and the ecosystem. The beach is home to countless creatures, from tiny crabs to nesting birds, and every shell, rock, or piece of driftwood plays a role in that environment. By taking only what’s necessary and leaving the rest untouched, we help preserve the beauty and balance of the shoreline for everyone to enjoy, including both people and wildlife. And of course, anything you want to take should first be thoroughly checked to make sure there aren’t any creatures living there.
The next time you’re at the coast or enjoying a beach vacation, if you see people walking with their heads down, scanning the sand, you’ll know that they’re beachcombing! And why not give beachcombing a try yourself? It’s a relaxing way to explore and discover the hidden treasures the tide brings in. When done thoughtfully, it’s a wonderful way to connect with the natural beauty of the shore while leaving it just as lovely for others to enjoy.

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What is beachcombing? Everything you need to know.
Have you ever gone beachcombing while on a beach vacation? Would you consider yourself a beachcomber? Share your thoughts in the comments.