See Shells, Sea Shells down at the Shell Museum: Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium

Florida, especially Sanibel, is a big designation for people who love to go shelling (or collecting sea shells) as a pastime. So, There is one tourist designation that is a testament to Sanibel's beach culture. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is located in Sanibel, Florida. The museum opened in 1995. Founders include malacologist, Dr. Robert Tucker Abbott, local benefactors,The Bailey Family, local shell collector Charlene McMurphy, and actor Raymond Burr.

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First Floor 

The first floor is home to a small aquarium housing an octopus and small fish (i.e clownfish) exhibit and touch pool. The touch pool contains mollusks, conches, whelks and other species guests can interact with as a museum guide explains facts. 

Second Floor

Now the crown jewels of the museum: the 600,000 shell specimens. Dubbed the The Great Hall of Shells, Much of the collection comes from Florida, the Gulf, and the Caribbean. Thousands of different shapes, color, size and species surround visitors.There is also ornate furniture and jewelry on display made from seashells. 

Conclusion

It is a great visit for shell enthusiasts visiting Sanibel. The inside is beautifully renovated after the damage from Hurricane Ian a few years ago. I definitely recommend it if you are visiting Sanibel!