Shell Game
Discover dollars (the sand variety) and other treasures on these beaches.
Big Shell, Padre Island National Seashore (from Interstate 37 in downtown Corpus Christi, head south on the Crosstown Expressway, turn left on Texas Highway 358 [South Padre Island Drive] for 9.5 miles, where it becomes Park Road 22, then continue east on 22 for about 13 miles; Big Shell extends from mile markers 22 to 27; 361-949-8173, ext. 253). Countless gleaming broken seashells wash up on this uncrowded—and suitably named—section of beach. But if the tidal conditions are right, you might find intact six-inch giant Gulf clam shells, along with orange horse conchs; tiny, bright emerald nerite snails; delicate coquinas spread out like butterfly wings; and, of course, sand dollars. Four-wheel drive required.
San Jose Island (take a ferry from Woody's Sports Center, 136 Cotter Street, Port Aransas; 361-749-5252 or 800-211-9227; gulfcoastfishing.com). Widely touted as having the best shelling in Texas, this 26-mile-long island (owned by Fort Worth's Bass family) boasts 13 miles of clean beach that is accessible to the public. Special finds include the whorly, cone-shaped Mitchell's Wentletrap, bivalves like mussels and clams, and an unusual abundance of the ever-popular sand dollar. Free; no amenities. Ferry $9.95 round trip, children 5 to 12 $4.95, under 5 free; call for schedule.
San Luis Pass, far southwest end of Galveston Island (from Galveston, take Texas Highway 45 south, get off at the 61st Street [West Beach] exit, turn right on 61st for about 2 miles, then turn right again on Seawall Boulevard [Texas Highway 3005] for about 20 miles to San Luis Pass; 409-763-4311). Visit the shores of the historic Gulf of Mexico—West Bay water connection before dawn—and the arrival of the beach-tillers—to find the likes of horn-shaped lightning whelks (the Texas state shell), ribbed angulate wentletraps, clamlike cockles, and spiral moon snails. Toll bridge $1.
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