How Should I Dress for the Tour?

6 Smart Tips for What to Wear on a Shelling Tour (and What to Avoid)

Dressing appropriately will keep you comfortable, protected, and ready for adventure on your shelling tour. Between wading in saltwater, brushing past island brush, and being exposed to sun, bugs, and breeze, your outfit matters more than you think. Here’s what to wear - and what to avoid - to make the most of your day.

1. Wear Protective Water Shoes or Dive Booties (Avoid Flip-Flops and Laced Shoes)

Slip-on water shoes, dive booties, or sturdy sandals with a back strap will protect your feet from sharp shells, oyster beds, and hot sand. Neoprene material with a thick sole and no laces are ideal. (Laces can snag on branches/ stumps and cause tripping).

Why not flip-flops or sneakers? 

Flip-flops offer zero protection and fall off easily in water. Laced shoes can get soggy, trap sand, and are prone to snagging on branches causing tripping.

2. Choose Quick-Dry, Fitted Bottoms Like Leggings or Rash Guard Shorts (Not Baggy or Heavy Pants)

Fitted leggings or athletic shorts made from moisture-wicking fabric dry fast and won’t get waterlogged or snag on branches.

Why skip flowy skirts or loose pants? 

They catch on island brush, blow around in the wind, and can become uncomfortable when wet.

3. Cover Up with a Long-Sleeve UPF Shirt (Ditch the Tank Top or Bikini Top)

Long-sleeve rash guards or sun shirts shield your arms from sunburn, bug bites, and unexpected scrapes.

Why not minimal coverage? 

Bikini tops and tanks leave too much skin exposed to UV rays, sand flies, and scratchy mangrove twigs.

4. Add Layers You Can Peel Off (Avoid Bulky Outerwear)

Mornings can start breezy - bring a lightweight jacket or windbreaker that you can easily stow away once the sun’s up.

Why not a big hoodie or heavy jacket?

It’ll become a bulky burden to carry once it’s warm.

5. Wear a Hat That Stays Put and Polarized Sunglasses (Not a Floppy Hat That’ll Fly Off)

A snug baseball cap, sun hat with a chin strap, or neck flap hat gives you sun protection that won’t blow away. Or, do what I do and use your neck gaiter as as a hat band to keep your hat secure while on the boat! Pair with polarized sunglasses to cut water glare and help you spot shells.

Why skip floppy fashion hats or regular sunglasses? 

Flimsy hats won't last a minute on a windy ride, and non-polarized shades won’t help you see into the water.

6. Think Smart with Accessories: Neck Gaiter, Bright Colors, and Bug Protection (Skip Camo and Dark Clothes)

A neck gaiter doubles as sun protection, wind barrier, and even a hat anchor. Wear bright colors so you’re easy to spot in the mangroves.

Why not dark or camo clothes? They blend in with the island, making it harder for your guide or group to see you - especially from the boat.

🧦 Pro Tip: Wear Socks with Your Water Shoes.

Yes, socks - really! A pair of regular sport socks will dramatically reduce your risk of blisters, especially if your water shoes are new and you've not broken them in. It may look a little funny, but your feet will thank you by the end of the tour.

Dressing smart means a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable shelling experience.

Looking for seashell-themed attire? I've got you covered! Check out my shop!