Maui, with its stunning coastline and vibrant marine ecosystems, is a paradise for beach lovers of all ages. For families traveling to Hawaii who enjoy a gentle treasure hunt along the shoreline, shell collecting is a perfect pastime. While not every beach in Maui is rich in shells due to the island’s volcanic nature and active tides, there are a few special spots where nature’s coastal art does wash ashore. Here’s everything you need to know about the best beach for shell collecting in Maui – and tips to make your family trip both fun and environmentally responsible.
Best Beach for Shell Collecting: Baldwin Beach Park
Located on Maui’s North Shore near the town of Paia, Baldwin Beach Park is one of the island’s most scenic and family-friendly beaches. The long stretch of golden sand offers plenty of space for wandering, exploring, and shell collecting. Early mornings after high tide are the best times to visit, as new shells are often deposited along the shoreline overnight.
What makes Baldwin Beach especially appealing for shell seekers is its mix of coarse and fine sand, tide pools, and driftwood areas where shells often collect. Look near the rockier ends of the beach for a better yield, and always be mindful of waves and currents if you’re browsing close to the waterline.
What Kind of Shells Can You Find?
- Small cowries – often hard to spot, but a beautiful find with their glossy finish
- Cone shells – commonly found but should only be collected if uninhabited
- Nerite shells – compact and colorful, and often found near lava rocks
- Augers and turban shells – fun spiral shapes that kids love to search for
Always check that a shell is uninhabited before collecting. Many marine creatures use shells as their homes, and Hawaiian culture and local regulations emphasize respectful and sustainable practices when enjoying nature.
Tips for Responsible Shell Collecting
- Collect only loose, uninhabited shells – never take live shells or disturb coral
- Bring a small mesh bag for holding shells to keep sand out and reduce waste
- Wash shells with clean water before packing them to prevent odors
- Respect signage and guidance from local conservation programs
It’s also worth noting that Hawaii law prohibits the export of certain marine items, and excessive collection is never encouraged. Take a few favorite finds and leave the rest for future visitors and marine life to enjoy.
Why Beach Safety and Environmental Care Matter
When shell collecting with kids, always keep safety top of mind. Watch out for sharp edges on shells, coral, or rocks, and keep sunscreen applied throughout the day. Choose a reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to protect both your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem. Coral-friendly sunscreen helps preserve the vibrant reefs that support Maui’s entire marine environment and ensure our shorelines remain healthy and biodiverse for generations to come.
Other Great Shelling Spots on Maui
La Perouse Bay
Located at the end of Makena Alanui Road, La Perouse Bay is part of the Ahihi-Kina’u Natural Area Reserve. This remoter area features lava rock formations and tide pools where small shells can be found. It’s great for older kids or those comfortable navigating more rugged terrain. Swimming is not recommended here due to sharp rocks and strong currents, but shell collecting along the shore can be rewarding.
Charley Young Beach (North end of Kamaole I Beach)
This Kihei beach is family-friendly and offers soft sand and calmer waters. While not always abundant in shells, light morning tides occasionally reveal beautiful cowries and cone shells. It’s also a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying a full beach day with the family.
What to Bring for Your Shell Collecting Adventure
- Water-resistant sandals or reef shoes to navigate rocky areas safely
- Reusable beach bags and containers for holding found treasures
- Sunscreen that’s both reef-safe and skin-friendly
- Snacks, plenty of water, and a beach mat to relax between explorations
- A lightweight magnifying lens or small net for younger kids to explore tide pools
Make it a Learning Experience
Shell collecting in Maui is more than just gathering pretty souvenirs – it’s a great chance to teach kids about marine biology, conservation, and respecting native Hawaiian ecosystems. Encourage children to observe first, collect selectively, and always return any shells they are unsure about back to the sea. Local visitor centers and tide pool guides can also help enrich your experience.
With a little planning and a lot of curiosity, your shelling day at Baldwin Beach Park or other Maui shores can become one of the most memorable highlights of your trip. Slow down, explore, and let the rhythm of the waves guide you to nature’s hidden treasures—and don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen to protect what makes Maui so magical.