How to Find Sand Dollars at the Beach

The sand dollar (phylum Echinodermata, class Echinoidea) is related to the starfish and sea urchin. It lives slightly buried in the sand in shallow coastal waters but will wash up on the beach when it dies, momentarilty exposed for the eagle-eyed collector.

Instructions

Where to Look

1

Check on any rules about beachcombing before your begin your quest.

2

Obtain a tide schedule from a beach store or look in the local newspaper for the times of the low tide.

3

Take a small bowl, such as a butter bowl lined with a paper towel, to lay the smaller sand dollars in. They break easily until they are preserved.

4

Start your search at low tide - the lower the tide, the better chances you have of finding perfect sand dollars.

5

Search after a storm. Be sure to look around in the debris at the high-tide area.

6

Watch at the edge of the water as it recedes. The sand will wash away from the buried shells. You will need to be quick to get the sand dollar before the next wave washes it away or buries it.

7

Collect only dead sand dollars. They will be about 1 to 4 inches in diameter and look like a large, white coin. Live sand dollars are brown and fuzzy - sort of like refrigerator leftovers.

8

Watch for the very small dollars to make beautiful earrings. See "Make Sand Dollar Jewelry," under Related eHows.

Preserve Your Finds

9

Soak your sand dollar in fresh water.

10

Change the water frequently, as it will turn brown and start to smell. Continue until the water stays clear.

11

Mix a solution of 2/3 fresh water and 1/3 bleach and let the sand dollars soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.

12

Rinse with fresh water and let dry.

13

Mix water and white glue in equal portions.

14

Use a foam brush to cover the sand dollars completely with the glue mixture.

15

Let the sand dollars dry completely before using in jewelry or displaying.