San Felipe, Baja California, is best known for its relaxed desert-meets-sea vibe, warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, and endless stretches of beach. But for those who take the time to explore, there’s another treasure waiting at the tide’s edge—sand dollars. These delicate, sun-bleached discs are more than just pretty souvenirs; they’re a glimpse into the fascinating marine life of the region.
At Vees RV Ramada San Felipe, we meet travelers from all over who come for RV camping, fishing, and Baja sunsets—only to fall in love with the joy of beachcombing for sand dollars. In this guide, we’ll explore what sand dollars are, where to find them in San Felipe and nearby beaches, and how to enjoy this activity responsibly while making the most of your time on the Baja coast.
What Exactly Are Sand Dollars?
Sand dollars are flat, burrowing relatives of sea urchins and starfish. In life, they’re covered in tiny velvety spines and appear more brown or purple than white. After they die, the sun bleaches their skeletons (called tests) into the pale, round shells we know and love.
Many beachcombers associate sand dollars with luck and peace, and they make beautiful decorations or keepsakes—if collected responsibly.
Best Places to Find Sand Dollars in San Felipe
San Felipe’s unique tidal range—the second largest in the world—creates perfect conditions for finding sand dollars. When the tide goes out, it can expose hundreds of meters of sand flats, revealing hidden shells, sea stars, and yes, sand dollars.
Here are the top spots to search:
1. San Felipe Main Beach
- Located right in town, this long stretch of sandy beach is ideal for casual strolls at low tide. Early mornings are the best time to spot unbroken sand dollars before foot traffic picks up.
2. Percebú Beach
- A quieter beach south of San Felipe, famous for its calm waters and excellent shelling. It’s less crowded, giving you more space to explore.
3. Playa Puertecitos
- Around an hour south of San Felipe, Puertecitos is known for its hot springs, but its surrounding beaches can also reveal sand dollars, especially after a storm.
4. El Dorado Ranch Beaches
- Private-access beaches north of San Felipe. If you’re staying nearby or know someone in the community, these stretches often have untouched finds.
The Best Time to Search
Timing is everything when looking for sand dollars in San Felipe:
- Low Tide: Check a tide chart before heading out. The lower the tide, the more sand flats are exposed.
- Morning: Calm winds and fewer people mean a better chance of finding intact shells.
- After Storms: Gentle storms can wash new treasures onto the beach.
How to Collect Sand Dollars Responsibly
Part of the magic of Baja’s beaches is their natural beauty, so it’s important to collect thoughtfully:
- Only Take Dead Sand Dollars: Live sand dollars are darker in color and may leave a yellowish stain on your hands. Please return them to the sea.
- Leave Some Behind: Don’t take every shell—other beachgoers and wildlife enjoy them too.
- Be Gentle: Sand dollars are fragile; carry them in a soft bag or wrap them in cloth.
Cleaning and Preserving Your Finds
Once you bring your sand dollars back to your RV or vacation rental:
- Rinse them in fresh water to remove sand.
- Soak in a mixture of water and a small amount of bleach (about 1 part bleach to 3 parts water) for a few minutes to whiten.
- Dry them in the sun.
- Seal with a clear spray sealant for durability, especially if you plan to display them.
Other Shelling Treasures in San Felipe
While searching for sand dollars, keep an eye out for:
- Pecten Shells (Scallops) – Bright orange or purple shells scattered in the shallows.
- Olive Shells – Smooth, glossy, and often patterned.
- Sea Glass – Weathered glass in shades of aqua, brown, and white.
San Felipe is a beachcomber’s dream for variety—each tide can bring something different.
Pairing Beachcombing with Your San Felipe RV Adventure
One of the best things about staying at Vees RV Ramada is having the beach just steps from your RV site. After a morning hunt for sand dollars, you can:
- Relax at camp with shade, Wi-Fi, and all the comforts of home.
- Grill fresh seafood from the local fish market.
- Take a sunset walk—sometimes the evening tide reveals a second round of shells.
Exploring Beyond San Felipe
If you’re willing to make short day trips from Vees RV Ramada, you can expand your shelling horizons:
- Bahía San Luis Gonzaga – About 2 hours south, this bay is stunning and has calm, clear waters perfect for wading and shell hunting.
- Isla Consag Boat Trip – While not a shelling destination, this island offers incredible wildlife viewing, and boat tours sometimes stop at hidden beaches.
- Valle de los Gigantes – Pair your beach day with a visit to this cactus forest for a true Baja experience.
RV Camping Tips for Beachcombers
- Bring a Mesh Bag: Keeps shells safe and lets sand fall out.
- Check Tides Before Parking: Some beaches have extreme tide shifts—don’t get caught in rising water.
- Wear Water Shoes: Protect your feet while walking long distances on the flats.
- Plan for Shade: The Baja sun is strong; have an awning or umbrella for midday breaks.
Why Vees RV Ramada Is the Perfect Base for Sand Dollar Hunting
- Prime Location: Close to both central San Felipe and quieter beaches.
- RV-Friendly Amenities: Power hookups, water, dump station, shaded areas, and secure parking.
- Local Knowledge: We’re happy to share tide times, secret shelling spots, and tips to make your search successful.
- Community Atmosphere: Meet other travelers who love exploring the Baja coastline.
Final Thoughts
Beachcombing for sand dollars in San Felipe is more than a hobby—it’s a peaceful way to connect with nature, explore Baja’s unique coastline, and bring home a piece of your adventure. Whether you’re walking the tide flats at dawn or taking a day trip to a remote beach, each sand dollar tells a story of the sea.
When you’re ready to relax after your search, Vees RV Ramada is your home away from home—offering the perfect mix of Baja charm, RV comfort, and easy beach access.
So pack your sunscreen, check the tide chart, and start your hunt for Baja’s most delicate treasures—you never know what you’ll find.