FAQ
Shark Tooth Hunting FAQ
Planning a Florida Gulf Coast vacation? Whether you're visiting Manasota Key, Englewood, Venice, or the greater Sarasota area, shark tooth hunting is the must-do beach activity. Find answers to all your questions below.
Getting Started
Where is the best place to find shark teeth in Florida?
Manasota Key on Florida's Gulf Coast is one of the best places in the world to find fossilized shark teeth. The island's unique geology, part of the Sarasota Formation, continuously exposes millions of ancient shark teeth along the shoreline. Unlike other Florida beaches, Manasota Key offers an exceptional concentration of fossils in shallow, accessible water — perfect for visitors on vacation.
What is a shark tooth hunting eco-tour?
A shark tooth hunting eco-tour is a guided beach experience where an expert leads you along the shores of Manasota Key to search for fossilized shark teeth, seashells, sea glass, and other natural treasures. Sharkier's eco-tours are family-friendly, educational, and perfect for visitors of all ages. Tours include professional sifting equipment and expert fossil identification.
Do I need experience to find shark teeth?
No experience is needed! Sharkier's guided tours are designed for beginners and experienced collectors alike. Our expert guides teach you exactly where to look, how to use sifting equipment, and how to identify different types of shark teeth and fossils. Most guests find multiple teeth on their very first outing.
Family & Vacation Activities
Is shark tooth hunting good for kids and families?
Absolutely! Shark tooth hunting is one of the most popular family activities on Florida's Gulf Coast. Children love the thrill of discovering real fossils that are millions of years old. Sharkier's eco-tours are designed to be fun and educational for all ages, making it a perfect vacation activity for families visiting Manasota Key, Englewood, or Venice.
Is shark tooth hunting safe for children?
Shark tooth hunting is a very safe and enjoyable activity for children. The fossilized teeth are found in shallow water and on the beach — there is no deep diving involved. However, all participants must be able to swim since the activity takes place in and around the water. Children should be supervised at all times, and we recommend water shoes to protect feet from shells.
What else can I do near Manasota Key?
The Manasota Key and Englewood area offers plenty of vacation activities beyond shark tooth hunting. Enjoy kayaking through mangrove tunnels, paddleboarding on Lemon Bay, visiting Stump Pass Beach State Park, fishing charters, dolphin watching tours, and exploring the charming shops and restaurants in Englewood and Venice.
Booking & Pricing
How much does it cost to rent equipment?
Sharkier offers shark tooth sifting equipment rentals starting at $30 per day. Each rental includes a professional sand rake and floating sifter — everything you need for a successful hunt. Reserve 4 or more sets and receive 20% off, which is great for families and groups.
How do I book a tour?
You can book a Sharkier eco-tour directly at sharkier.com or by calling/texting 1-941-999-1043. Tours are $54.99 per person. Book 6 or more spots and receive $10 off per person. We recommend booking in advance during peak tourist season (December through April).
Do you offer private or group tours?
Yes! Sharkier offers tours for groups of all sizes. Book 6 or more spots on our eco-tour and receive $10 off per person. We also accommodate private tours for families, birthday parties, corporate outings, and special events. Contact us to arrange a custom group experience.
What to Expect & Discoveries
What should I bring on a trip?
We recommend bringing sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), a hat, sunglasses, water shoes or sandals with straps, a reusable water bottle, and a small bag or container for your finds. Wear a swimsuit or clothes you don't mind getting wet. Sharkier provides all the professional sifting equipment you need.
What is the best time of year to hunt?
Shark teeth can be found year-round on Manasota Key, but the best conditions are typically from late fall through spring (November to April) when winter storms churn up the sand and expose more fossils. After storms and hurricanes, the beaches often reveal an exceptional number of fossils.
Can I keep the shark teeth I find?
Yes! All the shark teeth, seashells, sea glass, and fossils you find during your Sharkier eco-tour or while using our rental equipment are yours to keep. They make incredible souvenirs from your Florida vacation — real prehistoric treasures that are millions of years old.
What kinds of shark teeth can I find?
Manasota Key yields a wide variety of fossilized shark teeth, including teeth from bull sharks, tiger sharks, lemon sharks, mako sharks, and even the legendary Megalodon. You may also find fossilized ray teeth, fish vertebrae, horse teeth, and mastodon bone fragments.
Can I find a Megalodon tooth on Manasota Key?
The Megalodon was the largest shark that ever lived. While complete Megalodon teeth are rare and highly prized by collectors, fragments and smaller specimens are occasionally found on Manasota Key. Even finding a Megalodon tooth fragment is an exciting and memorable experience.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help you plan the perfect shark tooth hunting adventure during your Florida vacation.
1-941-999-1043