Beach Metal Detecting: A Comprehensive Beginners Guide

So, you’ve caught the metal detecting bug and decided to take it to the beach – great choice!

Picture it: the sun shining (unless you’re in the UK), the waves gently lapping at the shore, and you, headphones on, metal detector in hand, listening for that all important beep that could signal anything from a lost ring to an old coin.

It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with a little history and exercise thrown in for good measure. Metal detecting is really full of benefits.

But before you rush out, and start digging up your local beach, let’s take a step back and make sure you’ve got all the information you need to get started the right way.

There area lots of things you may need to find out before you head out, such as what beaches can you metal detect on, do you need permission, what tools will you need and is your metal detector the right model for beach detecting.

This beach metal detecting guide was written to try and help you answer all those questions and more. Let’s get started.

Can I Use My Metal Detector on the Beach?

Yes, you can use your metal detector on the beach but only if you have permission and your local authorities allow it. Beaches are fantastic places to use a metal detector. Especially for those who are struggling to find land permissions.

The beach is a fantastic place to go metal detecting for a few reasons:

• Lots of people visit beaches each year – Lots of lost belongings.
• Easy digging
• Easier to get permission
• More chance of finding precious metal items

UK Beach Metal Detecting

Let’s kick things off with the beach metal detecting in the UK.

UK beaches are brimming with potential finds, each year thousands and thousands of people frequent the seaside resorts of the UK. This has been happening for many years.

In the UK, the beach is a great place to start as a beginner detectorist, mainly because an open permit exists for lots of beaches, meaning you can just go metal detecting without permission. It’s also a good place to learn more about your detector.

That being said there are a few rules and metal detecting laws to follow such as these:

1. The Crown Estate:The Crown Estate manages the foreshore, the stretch between high and low tide, across much of the UK. Generally, you’re free to detect here, there used to be an permit you had to apply for, however this is now been removed providing you follow their terms & conditions. It’s a straightforward process, and it keeps you on the right side of the law. You can get started on their website here.  It’s also worth noting that you’re better to check with your local council as there have been some local authorities that have banned beach detecting controversially. For example Cleethorpes tried to ban it.
   
   

   Download PDF:Crown Estate Beach Detecting Terms & Conditions

   
   
2. National Trust Beaches: The National Trust looks after many of the UK’s most beautiful and picturesque beaches. Metal detecting is generally not allowed unless it’s part of a supervised archaeological project. The only way you’ll get to detect on these is with written permission from them, which is very, very rare! So if you have a beach location in mind just check it’s not national trust protected.
3. Privately Owned Beaches: Some beaches in the UK are privately owned, which means you’ll need to ask the owner’s permission before you start detecting. It’s usually a case of finding out who owns the land and making a polite request. In my opinion, this can be a lot of hard work and with the huge amount of crown owned beaches for you to choose from, you’ll save a lot of time just sticking to them.
4. Local Authority Beaches:As previously mentioned, although crown owned, some local councils have now put in place their own rules about metal detecting on beaches. In some areas, you might need a specific permit, while others might have designated areas where detecting is and isn’t allowed. Always check with the local council before heading out, make a quick phone call or take a look at their website to clarify.

Learn more about Understanding Metal Detecting Laws in the UK to make sure you’re detecting legally!

USA Beach Metal Detecting

Now, let’s cross the Atlantic to the USA, things are much more complicated here. Each state has it’s own set of rules and laws for beach detecting, the only advice I can give is to call the authorities beforehand and find out if it’s allowed.

1. Public Beaches: In the USA, each state has its own rules about where you can and can’t detect. Some states, like Florida, have very strict regulations, especially in state parks, while others are a bit more relaxed. Always check with the local park authority or the state website to find out what’s allowed, you don’t want to end up with a fine instead of treasure!
2. Private Beaches:Just like in the UK, private beaches in the USA require the owner’s permission for detecting. It’s always a good idea to get permission in writing to avoid any misunderstandings. Remember, a little politeness goes a long way!

For more tips on getting permission, check out our guide on How to Get Permission for Metal Detecting.

General Guidelines for Beach Metal Detecting

No matter where you’re detecting, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:

• Do Your Homework: Always research the beach you plan to visit and check the rules and laws.
• Get a Permit/Permission if Needed: Don’t risk a fine or a potential criminal record it’s not worth it.
• Be Respectful and Follow The Code Of Conduct: Beaches are public spaces, so be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
• Fill in Your Holes: It’s good practice to fill in any holes you dig, no one wants to fall in a hole you left behind.
• Take rubbish with you: While you’re beach metal detecting you’re likely to find lots of litter and rubbish. The right thing to do is to take it away with you or put it in the nearest bin.

The Benefits Of Beach Metal Detecting

Now that we’ve covered which beaches you can metal detect on, let’s dive into why beach metal detecting is a great place to start.

Find Coins, Jewellery, and More!

If you’re struggling to get private land permissions and are wanting to get started today, the beach is the place to be. From modern coins to lost jewellery and in some cases historic artifacts, there’s always something waiting to be found at the beaches.

Don’t get me wrong though, you’ll dig lots of trash along the way. The rate of “good finds” to trash is pretty low.

In fact, according to a survey of metal detecting hobbyists , over 75% of their beach finds are coins, often modern but sometimes older, valuable ones.

On the busier beaches, 15% of finds are jewellery,and if you’re lucky, you yourself might just stumble across gold rings or necklaces. A seasoned detectorist I met in Spain when I lived there, regularly found enough jewellery during the holiday season, detecting on the local beaches to cover his bills!

I used to work in a cash-for-gold shop in Spain, where I met a detectorist who regularly worked the beaches around Alicante during the holiday season. He’d come into the shop every few weeks to weigh in the jewellery he had found on the beaches—rings, bracelets, necklaces—you name it. Combined with the coins he collected, he told me that during the busy holiday months, his finds were enough to cover all his bills! This just goes to show that beaches, especially popular tourist spots, can be a detectorist’s gold mine, literally.

If you’re hunting on a beach with heavy foot traffic, your odds are good.

The Ring Finders, a global directory of detectorists, has helped recover over 8,300 rings for people who’ve lost them, proving that beaches can be full of lost treasures.

• Coins: Coins are by far the most common find on beaches. In the UK, you might come across anything from a new 1p piece to a Victorian penny and in more rare cases ancient coins. In the USA, you could find anything from modern dimes to rare silver dollars. And let’s not forget those gold coins that occasionally wash ashore after a storm.
• Jewellery: Beaches are hotspots for lost jewellery. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, and even watches are frequently lost in the sand or water. The potential for finding jewellery is high when beach detecting.
• Relics and Artifacts: Depending on where you are, you could find more historical items such as this bronze age axe head found on a beach in the UK by a detectorist.

Easier to Dig 

Compared to digging in hard soil or rocky terrain, detecting on a beach is a joy. Sand is easy to sift through, and you won’t need a heavy shovel or pickaxe,  just a simple scoop or trowel will do.

Improve Your Health

Beach detecting is a great way to stay active without even realizing it. Walking up and down the beach, bending down to dig, and swinging your detector all get your heart pumping and muscles moving. Plus, you’re out in the fresh air, soaking up some Vitamin D, which is great for your mood and overall health.

Check out our article on The Benefits of Metal Detecting for more reasons why this hobby is good for you!

Socialising

Metal detecting is far from a lonely hobby. Beaches are popular with detectorists, and you’re likely to meet plenty of like minded people. Whether you’re in the UK or the USA, there are local clubs and communities you can join to share tips, stories, and maybe even a pint or two.

• UK Clubs: The National Council for Metal Detecting (NCMD) hosts events and meetups across the country.
• USA Clubs: The Federation of Metal Detector and Archaeological Clubs (FMDAC) offers a chance to connect with other enthusiasts.

Check out our UK Metal Detecting club directory here to find your local club.

Beach Detecting – Best Time & Places

Having a good plan before you head out is going to be beneficial and can help make your day much more productive.

It’s a good idea to visit the beach before you’re metal detecting trip there. This way you can check out where most people gather, what times are busy etc

Best Times to Detect

1. After High Winds or Storms: If there’s one thing seasoned beach detectorists know, is that storms and high winds are always a god send. After a good heavy storm or high winds, the waves churn up the sand, bringing all sorts of items to the surface. Think of it as nature’s way of giving the beach a good shake, revealing what’s been hiding beneath. So, keep an eye on the weather forecast, the more dramatic, the better! (Don’t go out in bad weather conditions though)
2. At Low Tide: You know that old saying, “the early bird catches the worm?” Well, in beach detecting, the early detectorist catches the finds. Low tide exposes parts of the beach that are usually underwater, giving you a great opportunity to search in areas that are rarely touched by other detectorists. You can often find items that have been lost in the surf or washed ashore. Check your local tide charts, you’ll want to try to get out there just as the tide is going out for maximum coverage.
3. Early Morning or Late Evening: Apart from the lovely peace and quiet, early mornings or late evenings are great times to detect because there’s less competition and less distraction. Most beachgoers haven’t arrived yet, or they’ve already packed up for the day, leaving the beach open for you to explore without having to dodge 100 people asking you if you’ve found anything good. Believe me you’ll be taking them headphones off every 2 minutes.

Pro Tip: Avoid detecting during busy beach periods it might be fun for people-watching, but be prepared for the constant, “Have you found any treasure yet?” You’ll not get much detecting done if you are a polite person.

Best Spots to Detect on Beaches

Where you detect on the beach can be the difference between a good day and a bad day, this is why I mentioned visiting the beach to do some recon before going out with your detector. Take notes of where people gather, the towel lines, the tide lines, look for buildings etc

1. High Tide Line: The high tide line is where the waves deposit all sorts of items as they roll back out. It’s often marked by a line of seaweed, shells etc. This is prime detecting territory! You’ll have the potential to find everything from coins and jewellery to the odd relic. It’s a hotspot because anything lost in the surf can be carried in by the water and deposited right along this line. You will need to ensure you have the right metal detector for this though, as wet sand will require a detector fit for the purpose. More about this soon.
2. Near Buildings & Structures: Keep an eye out for places where people gather or have to cross, like piers, lifeguard towers, benches or entrances to the beach. These spots are usually full of foot traffic, which means higher potential for dropped coins, keys, and jewellery. Piers, in particular, are great for finds, people love to fish, and there’s always something falling off a wrist or out of a pocket!
3. The Towel Line: I’ve personally always found the towel line to be productive. As people lounge about, cover themselves in sunscreen, items slip out of pockets, bags, and off wrists, and they rarely notice until it’s too late. A slow, thorough sweep of the towel line can yield some nice stuff!
4. Entrance and Exit Areas: People come and go from the beach at specific points, the bottom of a set of steps, the pathway from the car park, or the boardwalk exit. These are usually high traffic areas where items can be dropped or lost. A quick scan of these spots can reveal loose change, keys and other items people carry in their pockets. Try to only do these areas before or after beach goers have come or left.
5. Rock Pools and Tidal Pools: Rock pools and tidal pools are often overlooked by other detectorists, but they can be fantastic spots. Items can get caught in the rocks or settled in the silt and sand.

Sand Types (Sounds OTT, But it’s important)

Different sand types believe it or not, can have a huge effect  on the performance of your metal detector, understanding the differences can help you decide where to focus your efforts.

Having the right metal detector for the beach really important. If you’ve been out and bought a knock off Garrett from Temu or Wish then don’t expect it to work on wet sand.

Even some budget beginners detectors just don’t cut it. So if you’re going to be going to the beach regularly and you want to detect in wet sand, you’ll need the right machine!

• Dry Sand:usually found higher up the beach, is the easiest to dig. It’s loose, easy to sift through, and is often where you’ll find more recent drops,  modern coins, jewellery, sunglasses and unfortunately lots of litter. This is also a great area for beginners or those who struggle with mobility, since it’s much easier to dig and sift through.
• Wet Sand: Wet sand, closer to the waterline, can be a bit trickier for a couple of reasons. However, it’s where the best finds often lie, especially after the tide has gone out. Items tend to get washed up from the sea and left here. Be prepared to dig deeper, and make sure your detector is good enough and set up to handle the mineralization caused by saltwater. Lowering the sensitivity a notch or two can help avoid those annoying false signals. Again you’ll need the right machine for wet sand.

Check out this thread on Reddit for some good recommended beach metal detectors.

Beginners Tips for Metal Detecting on the Beach

Beach detecting, just like any metal detecting, takes patience. That being said if you try to just find value in the other benefits instead of focusing on finding valuable items then you’ll have a great day regardless.

Trash finds are far far more common than “good finds” and the chances of finding valuable items such as jewellery are small, but they do exist. I’m yet to find gold in ten years of metal detecting yet I know of detectorists that have found lots over the same amount of time.

Never the less here’s a beach detecting tips to help increase those chances and make your experience better:

1. Get Permission and Stay Legal: Always check the local regulations and get any necessary permits/permissions. There’s nothing worse than being asked to leave a beach (or worse) because you didn’t do your homework. It’s easy to do, and it saves a lot of hassle down the line.
2. Watch the Tides: The tide can sneak up on you, especially if you’re engrossed in detecting. Always keep an eye on the tide, and know when it’s coming in or going out. It’s a good idea to carry a tide chart or use an app to keep track, do a bit of research beforehand so you’re armed with the info you need.
3. Fill Your Holes: Nobody likes a beach full of holes, they’re a hazard to other beachgoers and potentially to wildlife. Always fill in any holes you dig. It’s just good detecting etiquette and helps keep the beach safe for everyone.
4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: It’s easy to get lost in your detecting, but always stay aware of what’s happening around you. Watch out for sunbathers, kids, dogs, and other beachgoers. Remember, you’re sharing the space with others, so be courteous and considerate.
5. Dress for Success: Comfortable clothing and footwear are a must. If you’re planning on detecting in the water, make sure you have waterproof boots or waders. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential in sunny weather. And don’t forget to stay hydrated!
6. Research: Visit your local beach watch for when people start to leave so you can get there at just the right time before some other beach detectorist steals your loot, watch where people congregate, sunbathe, play, walk etc I always say fail to plan, plan to fail. Plan your beach hunts!
7. Get The Right Kit:�Having the right tools for the job is imperative, having the right detector is even more important.

What Kit Do I Need For Beach Detecting?

Alright, let’s talk more in depth about what you will need. Beach detecting doesn’t require a ton of fancy equipment, but there are a few essentials you’ll need to make your outing a success.

A Suitable Metal Detector:

Not all metal detectors are good for the beach. If you plan to detect on both wet and dry sand, you’ll need a metal detector that can handle both. Look for models with good discrimination features, ground balance settings, and waterproof coils. For example, the Minelab Equinox series or Garrett AT Pro are excellent choices for beach detecting in both the UK and USA. I do believe the C-Scope CS4PI was a metal detector designed specifically for beach detecting and although an older model, it still performs fantastic on wet sand.

 

Scoop or Trowel: 

When it comes to digging on the beach, your trusty shovel from home might not be the best tool for the job. You’ll want a lightweight scoop or trowel that’s easy to carry and perfect for sifting through sand. A scoop with a long handle is ideal because it allows you to dig without constantly bending over, your back will thank you for it later! Look for a scoop with a sturdy metal mesh or holes to quickly sift through the sand and separate the treasure from the trash.

If you’re working on wet sand or in the water, consider a stainless steel scoop, which offers better durability against rust and corrosion. A simple plastic scoop will do just fine for dry sand, and it’s much lighter to carry around. You could even go for a collapsible version if you’re traveling light!

Pinpointer: Pinpoint Your Finds Faster

A pinpointer is a small handheld device that helps you narrow down the location of a target after you’ve dug a hole. Think of it like a mini metal detector that saves you tons of time by quickly identifying where your treasure is hiding, so you don’t end up digging craters all over the beach. This is especially useful in sandy conditions where small items can shift and settle quickly.

When choosing a pinpointer, go for one that’s waterproof if you plan to detect in the surf or near the waterline. Some great options include the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT or the Nokta PulseDive, both of which offer reliable performance and are favoured by detectorists around the world.

Headphones:

The beach can be a noisy place crashing waves, seagulls squawking, and families enjoying their day out. To make sure you hear even the faintest beep from your detector, a good pair of headphones is essential. They’ll help block out background noise and let you focus on the signals that matter.

Look for headphones with noise cancelling features and a comfortable fit, especially if you plan on detecting for long periods. Wireless options are also worth considering to avoid getting tangled up in cords. Just make sure they’re compatible with your metal detector model.

Also if you are detecting while people around, they don’t want to hear your detector!

Your Phone: 

It might sound obvious, but don’t forget your phone. Whether you’re detecting solo or with friends, having a fully charged phone is essential. Not only does it help you keep track of the time (tides wait for no one!), but it also ensures you can call for help in an emergency. You can use it to check tide times, weather forecasts, and even share your finds with fellow detectorists on social media!

Bin Bag:

It’s a sad fact that the majority of your finds will be litter. Beaches can be littered with trash like bottle caps, aluminium foil, and the dreaded ring pulls and tin cans left behind by beach goers. Bring a small bin bag with you and pick up any rubbish you find along the way. It keeps the beach clean and shows that we care about responsible metal detecting and the environment.

Water and Snacks:

Metal detecting can be surprisingly tiring, especially under the hot sun or during a long day on the beach. Make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, along with some snacks to keep your energy levels up. A reusable water bottle is a great idea. it’s eco-friendly and can keep your drink cold for hours. Granola bars, nuts, and fruit are good snack options that are easy to carry and provide a quick boost of energy when you need it.

Appropriate Clothing

Last but not least, dress for the conditions. If you’re detecting in the UK, the weather can change in a blink, so layers are your friend. A waterproof jacket, comfortable trousers, and sturdy shoes are a must. If you’re on a hot beach in the USA, opt for light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of sunscreen. A good pair of gloves can also protect your hands from sharp objects and rough sand.

Finds Bag or Fanny Pack

We’ve wrote a guide to the best metal detecting finds bags here, taking a finds bag with you is a good idea. Most come with a nice slot for your pinpointer, they will help keep valuable finds

Can I Use My Metal Detector in Water?

Yes, you can, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Not all metal detectors are designed for use in water, so it’s important to know your equipment’s limitations. Lots of coils are waterproof but you’ll need to make sure your actual detector is waterproof.

Dry Sand: 

Dry sand is the easiest place to start metal detecting, especially for beginners. It’s simple to dig, and you don’t have to worry about water damage to your detector or the added confusion of mineralised sand that will send most detectors whacky. Most beginner friendly metal detectors if they are a reputable brand such as Garrett, Minelab, Nokta etc are perfect for dry sand, so if you’re just getting started, this is the place to be.

Wet Sand: 

Wet sand can be trickier because of the saltwater’s conductivity and mineralisation, which can cause interference and false signals. However, it’s also where some of the best finds are made, as objects washed up by the sea often settle here. If your detector has a ground balance or sensitivity adjustment, lower the sensitivity to avoid false signals, and remember to move slowly and methodically to pick up on those deeper, faint signals.

Shallow Water: Splashing Around with Treasure Potential

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try detecting in shallow water. Just make sure your metal detector is waterproof or at least has a waterproof coil. Many great finds have been made in just a few feet of water, where items dropped by swimmers or washed in by the tide often end up.

If your detector isn’t fully waterproof, stick to the edges and avoid submerging the control box.

Beach Detecting, Secrets to Success!

While there’s no real beach metal detecting secrets, there are many ways you can get the upper hand and increase your chances of finding more valuable items.

Research. A plan. The Right Gear. 

Do your research find out the best locations on the beach where the most people frequent.

Plan the right time to go, when there’s not many people about, after a storm or high winds, before other detectorists get there.

Have the right metal detecting gear, a purpose made beach metal detector that deals with highly mineralised areas that is waterproof to avoid limiting yourself to certain areas. The right digging tools for quicker recovery rates.

That’s it really, there’s always going to be an element of luck involved, you’ve got to walk over it to find it.

So although again no beach metal detecting secrets, but you can get yourself the upper hand. Fail to plan. Plan to fail!

FAQ: Beach Metal Detecting

 

1. Can I metal detect on any beach?

This depends on where you are. In the UK, many beaches are part of the Crown Estate, which generally allows metal detecting. However, beaches under the control of organizations like the National Trust or local councils may have restrictions. In the USA, each state has its own regulations—some public beaches allow it, while others (particularly federal and state parks) may not. Always check local laws or ask for permission when detecting on private beaches.

2. What is the best time to metal detect on the beach?

Early morning and late evening are ideal times, especially during low tide. After a storm is another great time, as the strong waves churn up new items from the sea. Avoid busy beach hours, as you’ll not only have less competition but also more peaceful detecting.

3. Can I use any metal detector on the beach?

Not all metal detectors are suited for beach detecting. For dry sand, most metal detectors will work well, but wet sand requires detectors with specific settings to handle mineralization, like ground balancing. Look for detectors designed for saltwater environments, such as the Minelab Equinox series or Garrett AT Pro.

4. How deep can a metal detector detect on the beach?

In general, most detectors can reach up to 8-12 inches in dry sand. However, this varies depending on the size of the object and the type of detector. In wet sand, your detector’s depth range may be reduced due to mineralization, but with proper settings, you can still detect at considerable depths.

5. What types of things can I find while beach metal detecting?

Beach detectors often find modern coins, lost jewellery (like rings, necklaces, and bracelets), and occasionally relics or historical artifacts. Some lucky detectorists have even found gold coins or ancient treasures after storms have brought them to the surface.

6. Do I need permission to metal detect on a private beach?

Yes, if a beach is privately owned, you’ll need the owner’s permission. It’s always best to get this permission in writing to avoid any misunderstandings.

7. Can I detect in the water?

Yes, but not all detectors are waterproof. If you plan to search in shallow water or wet sand, ensure your detector or its coil is waterproof. There are specific models designed for underwater detecting, like the Nokta Makro Simplex+.

8. What should I do if I find valuable treasure?

In the UK, you are required by law to report finds that qualify as “treasure” under the Treasure Act. This typically includes items over 300 years old made of gold or silver, or groups of coins. In the USA, laws vary by state, so always check local regulations on reporting valuable finds.

9. Why do I get false signals on wet sand?

Wet sand is mineralized and can cause interference with some detectors, leading to false signals. To avoid this, adjust your detector’s sensitivity or use ground balancing if your detector allows it. Some detectors are designed to work better in these conditions, so it’s worth considering an upgrade if you frequently detect in wet sand.

10. How do I avoid finding trash like bottle caps and pull tabs?

While you can’t completely avoid finding trash, you can reduce it by using discrimination settings on your metal detector. These settings allow your detector to ignore certain metals commonly found in bottle caps, pull tabs, and other beach litter.