After nearly three years of rebuilding following Hurricane Ian, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium has officially completed the final phase of its restoration. The museum has opened its extensive new permanent exhibit, the Great Hall of Shells, marking a major milestone in its recovery.
A Complete Transformation The newly renovated gallery represents a complete re-curation and redesign of the original space. Spanning over 3,500 square feet, the Great Hall now features approximately three times as many shells as were on display prior to the 2022 storm.
Designed by New York City-based firm Matter Practice, the exhibit presents shells in a contemporary, jewelry-like setting, engineered to make specimens appear as if they are floating. “This space is intended to awe, to educate and to inspire,” said Executive Director Sam Ankerson.
Exhibit Highlights Curated by Science Director Dr. José H. Leal, the new displays cover a vast range of topics, from biological marvels to cultural history.
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Specimen Spotlights: The hall features dozens of exhibits including Southwest Florida shells, “world record” shells (the largest known specimens), and micromollusks (the smallest).
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Cultural Connection: Expanded sections explore how shells have influenced human history, touching on art, architecture, currency, fashion, spirituality, and medicine.
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Conservation Focus: New educational displays address environmental dynamics such as climate change, water quality, and habitat loss, while highlighting success stories like oyster habitat restoration.
Plan Your Visit In addition to the new Great Hall, visitors can explore the Living Gallery of Aquariums, which houses octopuses, seahorses, and other marine life.
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Hours: Open daily, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Location: 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
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Website: ShellMuseum.org
Admission Rates:
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Adults: $25
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Seniors/Veterans/Educators/First Responders: $20
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Students/Youth (12-17): $15
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Children (5-11): $5
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Under 5/Members/Active Military: Free
