Massachusetts' Best Beaches to Hunt for Seashells

If you are looking for a beautiful conch shell to display in your home, you won't find one on New Bedford's East Beach – or on West Beach, for that matter.

Conch is native to the coasts of the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Florida Keys. Shell enthusiasts flock to the Florida coast to search for conch, giant welk, Helmut shells, and more. The southwest Gulf Coast of Florida is a favorite for beachcombing.

That doesn't mean that there are not a lot of nifty shells and other ocean treats to scout for here in New England.

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The non-profit Buzzards Bay Coalition says, "Every day, waves, wind, and the ceaseless cycle of the tides touch more than 200 miles of shoreline around Buzzards Bay. As the water comes and goes, it leaves behind an incredible variety of objects from the sea."

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While this cycle continues year-round, winter can be the best time to comb the shoreline in search of treasures.

"Winter storms often bring some of the best finds ashore, and fewer crowds mean you have a better chance of finding a treasure," the Coalition says.

The Coalition's website lists more than a dozen shells and other treasures found along the beaches of Buzzards Bay and "easy beachcombing spots for families," all within a short drive from New Bedford.

Yankee's New England.com website lists its choices for "Best Beaches for Seashells in New England," "Best Beaches for Sea Glass," "Finding Glass Orbs on Block Island," and "Prettiest Beaches in New England."

Beachcombing and treasure hunting is a fantastic way to spend quality family time at little to no cost.

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Keep reading to see if your favorite beach town made the cut.

Gallery Credit: Keri Wiginton

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Gallery Credit: Peter Richman