Vineyard Metal Detectorist Searches the Sand and Saves Vacations
Over the past few years, metal detectorist Mikey Waters has been the unsung hero of Martha’s Vineyard beaches, rescuing sentimental treasures from the sand and surf. Armed with a state-of-the-art scuba dive metal detector, Mikey has recovered 105 wedding rings, countless keys, cell phones, and even two meteorites during his adventures. His efforts have saved many a summer vacation by reuniting beachgoers with items they thought were lost forever.
While Mikey’s story began like many detectorists—searching for spare change and bottle caps on the beach—his true calling didn’t strike until he saw a Facebook post from a woman who had lost her wedding ring. Feeling inspired, Mikey dug out his old metal detector from the basement and hit the beach. Not long after, he found the ring and returned it to its rightful owner, posting the story online. The post quickly went viral, and Mikey’s phone has been ringing off the hook ever since.
“I thought, well, why don’t I grab my metal detector out of the basement and go get some fresh air and walk the beach?” Mikey recalls. His instinct paid off, and now he’s the go-to person for anyone who loses a prized possession on the island’s shores.
Challenges of Sand Detecting
Not all beaches are created equal, and some can make the task much harder. South Beach is one of the toughest areas, with heavy surf and strong currents. Inkwell Beach also proves difficult due to its rocky terrain. Mikey has had to modify his tools over time, using specialized scoops and detectors to navigate these challenging conditions. “It’s real hard to dig in and get the signal,” he notes.
Despite the difficulty, Mikey rarely says no to a request. He doesn’t charge a fixed rate for his services, preferring to leave it up to the owner to offer a reward. “The majority have been very generous,” he adds.
Emotional Recoveries
Over the years, Mikey has encountered numerous heart-warming stories, including people in tears as they ask for his help. “One woman was so emotional that she made arrangements to come back to Martha’s Vineyard just to pick up her ring,” Mikey recalls. His dedication and kindness continue to touch the lives of those who thought they had lost something precious forever.
Despite battling health issues throughout his life, Mikey remains dedicated to his beach searches. “As long as I can stand and walk, I’ll keep at it,” he says, determined to continue bringing joy to others, one beep of his detector at a time.
Photo Credit: Jeanna Shepherd
Story credit – The Vineyard Gazette
Passionate about history, metal detecting, and the thrill of the hunt, I’ve spent years uncovering hidden treasures across the Lincolnshire countryside and beyond. As a pub landlord with a love for music and a knack for storytelling, I bring a unique perspective to every adventure—whether it’s finding a rare coin in a field or sharing tales of British history.
When I’m not swinging a detector, you’ll find me exploring micro hobbies, dreaming of life on a canal boat, or helping others dive into the world of metal detecting with practical advice and a good dose of humor.
