Beaches & Adventure Insider

Sanibel Island is to shells what Superman is to superheroes, what Lassie is to dogs, what Flipper is to dolphins. It’s legendary.

Sanibel Island, along with its pristine neighbor, Captiva Island, ranks tops in the world for shelling. Conchs, whelks, scallops and clamshells are so common they often spill out of the ground when islanders plant gardens. Indeed, the islands are shells, crafted over the years by geography and Mother Nature.

So you can imagine how spectacular the 73rd Annual Sanibel Shell Fair and Show, scheduled for March 4-6, 2010, is going to be. The event is hosted by the Sanibel Community Association and the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club.

There’s no admission to the Shell Fair, but they ask for a $3 donation to see the Shell Show. Food and beverages will be available, and there's lots of free parking.