Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Museum · Sanibel, Florida
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
Museum dedicated to shells and mollusks, on Sanibel, with collections from around the world, the Grand Shell Hall and aquariums with live animals from the Florida coast.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium opened in 1995 on Sanibel, an island known for the shells on its beaches. It is the only museum in the United States dedicated to shells and the mollusks that produce them.
The Grand Shell Hall brings together thousands of specimens from around the world, organized by theme: shells of Sanibel and Florida, shells in art and history, rare and giant species. One of the most useful sections for beachgoers shows how to recognize the most common species.
The aquariums display living mollusks such as octopuses, snails and clams, and there are touch tanks for children. The museum was damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022 and reopened with its exhibits refurbished.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
On hot afternoons or rainy days, as a break from the beach. Check opening hours before you go.
How to get there
It is on Sanibel-Captiva Road, in the center of the island, about 7 km from the bridge. There is parking on site, and the bike path passes in front.
Tip
Visit the museum before going to the beach: the shell displays from the island help you identify what you find on the sand.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
What does the Sanibel Shell Museum have?
Shells from around the world in the Grand Hall, an exhibit on Sanibel’s shells and aquariums with live mollusks, such as octopuses and marine snails.
Is the Sanibel Shell Museum open?
It reopened after damage from Hurricane Ian. Confirm hours before visiting.
How long does a visit to the shell museum take?
One to two hours.