12 Best Places to Metal Detect in Florida

Are you ready to unearth Florida’s buried secrets? Dive into our guide to the best metal detecting spots and let the treasure hunt begin!

Best Places to Metal Detect in Florida

Florida, with its rich history and unique culture, is a treasure mine for metal detectorists like me. 

The state’s soil conceals myriad mysteries waiting to be discovered, from the mythical times of pirates and shipwrecks to the forgotten remnants of early settlers.

With this selection of treasures, I embarked on a metal-detecting journey across numerous captivating sites in Florida. 

Since 2009, I have discovered an array of treasures. My travels have taken me to various Florida locations, including beaches, state parks, and public areas, alongside seasoned Floridian detectorists. 

Drawing from my experiences and the insights gathered from expert local detectorists, I am pleased to share with you the most highly recommended spots for metal detecting in the picturesque state of Florida.

Here are the Best places to metal detect in Florida,

  1. Vero Beach
  2. Siesta Key
  3. Melbourne Beach
  4. Seagrape Trail Beach
  5. Wabasso Beach
  6. Sebastian Inlet
  7. Blue Spring State Park
  8. Henderson Beach State Park
  9. Allenhurst, Brevard
  10. Kenansville, Osceola
  11. Fort Pickens, Escambia
  12.  Newnansville, Alachua

But there’s a lot more to know about those places!

So, in this article, I’ll dive deep into the best places to metal detect in Florida with their maps, metal detecting possibilities of those locations, and the treasures you can find the most.

Plus, I’ll explain to you all the latest metal detecting rules in Florida and how can you get permission to visit some of the places to avoid any troubles.

Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions as well. 

Let’s jump in!

Metal detecting friendly places in Florida
Metal detecting friendly places in Florida

Best Places to Metal Detect in Florida

Here are the top locations for metal detecting in Florida. You’ll find plenty of locations in the list below, including state parks, lovely sandy beaches, and ghost towns.

I’m here to share with you my experience metal detecting in each of these locations because I’ve been to all of them.

I’ll additionally instruct you how to go to each of these locations.

So come along with me on this adventure as I discuss metal detecting in Florida.

1. Vero Beach

Due to the historic treasures buried beneath the seas in the area around Vero Beach, it is known as the Treasure Coast. 

Vero Beach Florida
Vero Beach Florida

This beach attracts a lot of enthusiasts who come here in the hopes of earning at least a doubloon.

Old Spanish coins started showing up on the beaches in the late 1950s, and ever since then, priceless riches have occasionally been discovered.

If you want to see money, guns, and tools recovered from the fleet of wrecked Spanish treasure ships, go to the McLarty Treasure Museum

If you didn’t bring your metal detector, there are shops nearby where you may hire one for the day. I tried that by myself!

As you can see Vero Beach can be considered as one of the best beaches in Florida to metal detect due to the historic value of this place.

Did you know fact about places in Florida for metal detecting
Did you know fact about places in Florida for metal detecting

Location

Vero Beach is situated in the southeast of Florida, in the United States. It is located near the Atlantic Ocean on Florida’s east coast. 

Vero Beach, which is in Indian River County, is renowned for its stunning beaches and pleasant weather. It is roughly 190 miles (305 kilometers) south of Jacksonville and 135 miles (217 kilometers) north of Miami.

How to Get To the Vero Beach

Depending on traffic, the trip usually takes one hour and thirty minutes. Follow the directions to the main road as you leave the airport. Take I-95 South until you reach Vero Beach from there.

Things You Can Find in Vero Beach

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Artifacts
  • Tokens
Damaged coin found when metal detecting in Florida
Damaged coin found when metal detecting in Florida

2. Siesta Key

Another well-liked location for modern treasure hunters is the pristine white sand of Siesta Key. This beach’s powder-like sand and quiet surf make it a favorite among beachcombers.

One of the most well-known and picturesque beaches in the area is Siesta Beach, which is located on Siesta Key in Sarasota County.

Siesta Key Florida
Siesta Key Florida

According to folklore, pirates used the shoal draft bays and blind passes along Florida’s coast to conceal their loot when Spanish Galleons and British Frigates plied these coasts.

Around the Sarasota area, more than 2,000 shipwrecks have been found thus far. The 108-foot “Halcyon” sloop from 1985 is the most intriguing.

The cargo of this specific shipwreck included valuable oils, wines, spices, and ivory. It was also in excellent condition.

Location

On a barrier island off Florida’s southwest coast, Siesta Key is where Siesta Beach is situated.

It is on the island’s side that faces the Gulf of Mexico. To be more specific, Siesta Beach is situated in Sarasota, a city on Florida’s west coast, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of Tampa.

How to Get To the Siesta Key

Simply drive out of the airport and onto I-75 South to get to Siesta Key from the airport. I-75 South should be continued for another 54 miles or so until you reach exit 205 for Clark Road/FL-72.

Then, after traveling for roughly 6 miles on Clark Road/FL-72 West, turn left onto Siesta Drive. 

Follow Siesta Drive until it changes into Midnight Pass Road, which will take you directly to Siesta Key.

I heard about the Siesta key from a metal-detecting forum in Florida during the time I was staying at Best Western Plus Siesta Key Gateway when browsing the internet.

Things You Can Find in Siesta Key

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Shipwreck Artifacts
  • Tokens
Damaged military tag found when metal detecting in Florida
Damaged military tag found when metal detecting in Florida

3. Melbourne Beach

Another golden trove is located much further north at Melbourne Beach. 

This beach not only has the ideal environment for tanning, but it also provides a ton of chances for modern-day treasure seekers to unearth a peso de Ocho (piece of eight coins) or some jewels from the centuries-old ruins.

Melbourne Beach Florida
Melbourne Beach Florida

Due to the abundance of precious things that have previously been discovered along the sands, this beach is a fantastic location to hunt if you are just learning metal detecting.

However, it is vital to remember that it is not permitted to search for treasure on territory that is privately owned. 

Check the borders between the public and private lands along this shoreline.

Location

Melbourne Beach is a town in Florida’s Brevard County. It is located near the Atlantic Ocean on Florida’s east coast. 

The distance between Melbourne Beach and Orlando is roughly 70 miles (113 kilometers), to give you a more precise location.

How to Get To Melbourne Beach

Start driving east on the airport access road to reach Melbourne Beach from the airport. Take the I-95 South exit and head toward Melbourne. 

Until you reach exit 183 for US-192 East toward Melbourne, continue driving on I-95 South for another 25 miles or so.

After traveling about 5 miles east on US-192, turn left onto A1A South/Ocean Avenue. Melbourne Beach may be reached by continuing on A1A South for about 8 miles.

Things You Can Find in Melbourne Beach

  • Antique Coins (Ocho)
  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Artifacts
  • Tokens
Old ring found when metal detecting in Florida
Old ring found when metal detecting in Florida

4. Seagrape Trail Beach

Another haven for treasure hunters is Seagrape Trail Beach, a stunning, remote beach. 

Numerous silver coins from the Spanish Fleet’s lost shipwreck in 1715 have been found here, which is where the wreck’s northern end is located.

Given that the wreck is dispersed across a broad region between these beaches, the optimum location for metal detecting would be between Seagrape Beach and Turtle Trail Beach.

Very rare gold reales and numerous gold and silver coin denominations are among the riches discovered here. 

The Seagrape Trail Beach is available from dawn till dusk and is not manned.

Location

About half a mile South of County Road 510 is Seagrape Trail Beach Access.

Things You Can Find in Seagrape Trail Beach

  • Antique Coins (Gold/Silver)
  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Artifacts
  • Camping Items
Spanish colonial artifact found when metal detecting in Florida
Spanish colonial artifact found when metal detecting in Florida

5. Wabasso Beach

Wabasso Beach, another popular destination for treasure hunters, is situated north of Vero Beach. 

Along with the well-known artifacts from the sunken fleet of 1715, this location has also been used to salvage priceless decorations from the Spanish ship San Martin, which perished in 1618.

Near Wabasso Beach Florida
Near Wabasso Beach Florida

This beach is frequently visited by beachgoers with metal detectors, generally after an oceanic storm.

Because valuable things frequently emerge from behind layers of sand during this time, the area is safe for treasure hunters. 

Visit the McLarty State Treasure Museum as well if you’d like to learn more about the 1715 Treasure Fleet and see some of the artifacts that were found nearby.

There was an event organized by a metal detecting club in Florida for metal detecting in Wabasso Beach and I participated in that since I was there.

During that event, I was fortunate to hear lots of treasure adventure stories from local experts.

Tip for detecting metals in Florida
Tip for detecting metals in Florida

Location

On Florida’s east coast, in Indian River County, is Wabasso Beach. It is located on barrier island Orchid Island, which lies east of the mainland. 

Wabasso Beach is more specifically situated North of Sebastian and South of Vero Beach.

How to Get To Wabasso Beach

When traveling by car, Wabasso Beach is about 30 miles southeast of Melbourne International Airport (MLB). 

Take Interstate 95 South from the airport, exit onto State Road 510 (Wabasso Beach Road), and travel east towards the ocean to get there. 

According to traffic conditions, the trip usually takes 45 to an hour.

Things You Can Find in Wabasso Beach

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Artifacts
  • War Memorials

6. Sebastian Inlet

The Treasure Coast’s Sebastian Inlet is reputed to be Florida’s top metal-detecting location. Treasures with a $300,000 estimated value were discovered nearby in the 1980s.

Sebastian Inlet Florida
Sebastian Inlet Florida

As a result, modern treasure seekers visit this location every year in hopes of discovering some of these antiquated gems. 

Searching along the high-tide line is the greatest place to look for valuable goods if you’re new to this endeavor.

Stay away from the dunes as well because you are not allowed to keep anything you find there.

Location

On Florida’s east coast, in the counties of Brevard and Indian River, is Sebastian Inlet. It is about halfway between Vero Beach and Melbourne Beach.

The Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean are connected by the entrance itself.

How to Get To Sebastian Inlet

The distance by car from Melbourne International Airport (MLB) to Sebastian Inlet is about 27 kilometers. 

You can take Interstate 95 South and exit onto Florida State Road 510 (Malabar Road) traveling east to get to the inlet from the airport.

Once you reach State Road A1A, continue driving south on A1A until you reach Sebastian Inlet State Park. 

Depending on traffic, the drive normally takes 40 to 50 minutes and offers a beautiful ride along Florida’s east coast.

Things You Can Find in Sebastian Inlet

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Ancient Artifacts
  • Tokens

7. Blue Spring State Park

Popular Blue Spring State Park is found in Orange City, Florida, in the United States. 

It is well-recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a highly-liked vacation spot for adventure seekers, especially those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, and animal gazing.

Blue Spring State Park Florida
Blue Spring State Park Florida

Blue Spring State Park might provide some opportunity for metal detecting, but the kinds of things you can find depend on the locations where it’s allowed and the rules in place. 

You should verify with the park authorities for specific laws and regulations because most state parks have limits to safeguard natural and cultural treasures.

Location

The United States city of Orange City is home to Blue Spring State Park. Blue Spring State Park is located at 2100 W French Avenue in Orange City, Florida 32763.

How to Get To Blue Spring State Park

Florida’s Blue Spring State Park is situated 35 miles northeast of Orlando International Airport (MCO). 

From the airport, take FL-528 E (Beachline Expressway) eastbound, then merge onto I-95 N to get to the park by car.

Up to Exit 114 for FL-472 W in the direction of Deland/Orange City, keep driving north on I-95. 

You may reach Blue Spring State Park in Orange City by following FL-472 West. Depending on traffic, the journey usually takes 45 to 60 minutes.

Things You Can Find in Blue Spring State Park

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Ancient Artifacts

8. Henderson Beach State Park

Popular Henderson Beach State Park can be found in Destin, Florida, in the United States. 

Henderson Beach State Park Florida
Henderson Beach State Park Florida

This lovely park is well-known for its pristine white-sand beaches, green waterways, and an abundance of pristine natural beauty.

Swimming, tanning, picnics, hiking, birdwatching, metal detecting, and camping are among the available outdoor activities. 

The park also has a lush coastal dune ecology with nature trails that let visitors explore and discover more about the surrounding area.

The rules and regulations governing metal detecting in Henderson Beach State Park sometimes change, so it’s important to contact the park administration for the most recent details.

Location

Destin, Florida, in the United States, is home to Henderson Beach State Park. Henderson Beach State Park is located at 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy in Destin, Florida 32541

How to Get To Henderson Beach State Park

In Destin, Florida, Henderson Beach State Park is situated roughly 15 miles southeast of Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS).

You may drive to Henderson Beach State Park, which is located at 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, by taking FL-85 S (Eglin Pkwy) southbound, merging onto US-98 W (Emerald Coast Pkwy), and continuing on US-98 W. Depending on traffic, the journey usually takes 25 to 30 minutes.

Things You Can Find in Henderson Beach State Park

  • Antique Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Ancient Artifacts

9. Allenhurst, Brevard

In Brevard County, Florida, there is a historic ghost town called Allenhurst. It was once built as a small town to serve the surrounding Indian River orange plantations in the late 1800s.

Brevard Florida
Brevard Florida

George F. Allen, the town’s founder, inspired the name. The settlement of Allenhurst gradually vanished into obscurity, but its wealth was fleeting. 

Metal Detecting has been a trend-setting idea since that.

Make sure you have permission before using a metal detector on another else’s property. Observe your surroundings. 

It’s important to watch your steps to prevent injury in ghost towns because they can be in varying states of deterioration.

Currently is under Canaveral National Seashore property, owned by NASA.

Location

United States of America’s Florida’s Brevard County is home to the historic ghost town of Allenhurst. It is located on Florida’s east coast along the Indian River.

How to Get To Allenhurst, Brevard

Melbourne International Airport is roughly a 50-mile journey from Allenhurst in Brevard County, Florida. 

From the airport, take NASA Boulevard west, then Interstate 95 south, to reach there by car.

After traveling about 40 miles south on I-95, turn east on State Road 405 by taking Exit 147 toward Titusville. In Brevard County, close to Titusville, on the east side of the Indian River is Allenhurst.

Things You Can Find in Allenhurst, Brevard

  • Antique Coins
  • Ancient Relics
  • Jewelry
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Lost Personal Items
Old Civil War artifact found when metal detecting in Florida
Old Civil War artifact found when metal detecting in Florida

10. Kenansville, Osceola

A little community in Florida’s Osceola County is called Kenansville. 

It’s a rural area with a fascinating past, so metal-detecting aficionados could find it interesting to explore.

Osceola Florida
Osceola Florida

Before metal detecting on private property, always get permission. It’s crucial to inform local authorities or historical groups about any relics or items you find that have historical value. 

The historical worth of some things may require their preservation. I was able to collect many finds that are unique to Florida upon investigation.

Location

A little community in Florida’s Osceola County is called Kenansville. About 30 miles south of the city of St. Cloud, it is located in the state’s center region.

 The community is noted for its proximity to natural landmarks like Lake Marion and the Three Lakes Wildlife Management location despite being located in a rural location.

How to Get To Kenansville, Osceola

Orlando International Airport is about a 40-mile drive from Kenansville, which is situated in Osceola County, Florida. 

From the airport, take Boggy Creek Road south and continue onto the Florida Turnpike South to get to Kenansville.

To get to this small village in the country, recognized for its proximity to wildlife management areas and natural attractions, take Exit 240 in the direction of Kenansville and follow the instructions.

Things You Can Find in Kenansville, Osceola

  • Ancient Relics
  • Jewelry
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Antique Coins

11. Fort Pickens, Escambia

On Santa Rosa Island in Escambia County, Florida, United States, there is a former military fort called Fort Pickens. 

Fort Pickens, Escambia Florida
Fort Pickens, Escambia Florida

The fort has a long history that dates back to the early 19th century, and it was important in protecting the Gulf Coast during several wars, including the American Civil War and World War II.

Fort Pickens is now a component of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and a recognized National Historic Landmark. 

Visitors can explore the old buildings and discover more about the area’s military past because it is available to the public.

Location

Santa Rosa Island, which is a component of the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Escambia County, Florida, USA, is where Fort Pickens is situated.

How to Get To Fort Pickens, Escambia

You may drive to Fort Pickens, which is situated on Santa Rosa Island in Escambia County, Florida, from Pensacola International Airport (PNS). The distance between Fort Pickens and the airport is around 17 miles.

From the airport, visitors can use FL-292 W, often known as the Gulf Beach Highway, to get to Santa Rosa Island’s entrance. 

As soon as you get on the island, follow the directions to Fort Pickens, which is located at the western extremity of the island and offers a magnificent drive along the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico shoreline.

Depending on traffic and the state of the roads, it usually takes 30 to 40 minutes to drive from the airport to Fort Pickens.

Things You Can Find in Fort Pickens, Escambia

  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Relics
  • Tools and Equipment
  • Antique Coins
  • Lost Personal Items

12. Newnansville, Alachua

A historical location called Newnansville can be found in Florida’s Alachua County. 

In the nineteenth century, it was a prosperous town, today it is an archeological site with a fascinating past.

Alachua Florida
Alachua Florida

Because Newnansville is an archeological site, both state and federal laws must be followed to protect it. 

In such locations, metal detecting is frequently carefully regulated, and it’s typically forbidden to remove artifacts or cause damage to the environment.

Location

A historical location called Newnansville can be found in Florida’s Alachua County. It is situated about 20 miles northwest of Gainesville, Alachua County’s county seat.

How to Get To Newnansville, Alachua

In Florida’s Alachua County, Newnansville can be found. Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), which is located about 30 miles southeast of Newnansville, is the closest large airport to the city.

Take FL-24 W and NW 156th Ave, a lovely journey through Alachua County’s picturesque farmland, to get to Newnansville from the airport. 

Depending on traffic and road conditions, the trip usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes by car.

Things You Can Find in Newnansville, Alachua

  • Jewelry
  • Ancient Relics
  • Antique Coins
  • Lost Personal Items

Map of Metal Detecting Friendly Places in Florida

Congrats folks! Now you know all the best places to metal detect in Florida with the treasures you can find including their historic values.

Now let me share with you several tips that I experienced when I was metal detecting in Florida which helped me to avoid troubles and collect cool things.

Some of the below tips were collected by having little chit-chats with some of the friendly expert local metal detectorists in Florida.

So, just keep reading!

Tips for Visiting Metal Detecting Places in Florida

  • Check the local regulations and obtain necessary permits.
  • Visit beaches early in the morning or after storms.
  • Stay above the high-tide line to avoid legal issues.
  • Respect private properties and do not trespass.
  • Use appropriate equipment suitable for beach detecting.
  • Be mindful of protected areas and do not disturb them.
  • Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, including filling any holes.
  • Research historical shipwrecks and settlements for potential hotspots.
  • Carry extra batteries and maintenance tools for your detector.
  • Stay informed about local events that might increase lost item finds.
Things you should consider when metal detecting in Florida
Things you should consider when metal detecting in Florida

Metal Detecting Laws in Florida

The regulations governing metal detecting in Florida differ depending on where you are. 

Furthermore, it may be illegal to dig or otherwise disrupt the environment, and any lucrative discoveries must be reported to the appropriate authorities by the law.

Metal detecting in Florida requires observing local laws, respecting the environment, and securing any required permits or permissions.

Let’s look into specific places if Metal Detecting is allowed.

Is it Legal to Metal Detect on Florida Beaches?

Yes, it is Legal to Metal Detect on Florida Beaches as long as it is done responsibly, with consideration for the environment and other beachgoers, metal detecting is normally permitted on Florida beaches.

To be sure there are no particular limitations or licenses needed, it is advisable to verify with local authorities. Rules and regulations can differ from one city or county to another.

While some beaches might have specific areas where metal detecting is permitted, others might have time limitations or call for permits for businesses, respectively. 

It is usually a good idea to abide by any posted signs and instructions and, if necessary, to notify the relevant authorities of any valuable or historically significant discovery.

Is it Legal to Metal Detect on Florida State Parks?

Yes but in most Florida State Parks, metal detecting is not permitted. Strict guidelines are set forth by the Division of Recreation and Parks to safeguard the parks’ natural and historical elements.

Metal detecting has the potential to harm historical sites, upset animal habitats, and interfere with the environment. 

With the appropriate authorization and permits, metal detecting may be allowed in some instances or in particular locations. 

It is usually essential to confirm the rules and restrictions surrounding metal detecting with the particular state park you intend to visit.

Is it Legal to Metal Detect on Florida Ghost Towns?

Yes, Metal detecting on Florida ghost towns is normally permitted, however, it is important to complete an investigation and seek permission from landowners before engaging in any metal detecting operations.

Florida’s ghost towns are frequently situated on private property, so you must respect the proprietors’ rights. 

It’s also essential to be aware of any local laws that may apply to metal detecting or the removal of artifacts.

Due to concerns about archaeological preservation or historical preservation, some sites can have restrictions. 

Always be cautious to use caution and adhere to any regulations or permissions needed for metal detecting in these locations.

Tip for detecting metals in Florida state
Tip for detecting metals in Florida state

In 2015, metal detector enthusiasts discovered $4.5 million worth of gold coins off Florida’s Atlantic coast, a testament to the state’s rich submerged treasure history.

www.catamaransite.com

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

FAQs

Is a permit required for metal detecting in Florida?

Permit requirements vary by location; some beaches allow metal detecting without a permit, while others, especially state parks, may require written permission.

When is the best time to metal detect on Florida beaches?

The best times are daybreak or after storms, particularly during storm season when tides may uncover hidden treasures.

Can you keep treasures found while metal detecting in Florida?

Items found can generally be kept unless they are submerged, over 50 years old, or found in restricted areas where removal is illegal.

Where is the so-called ‘Treasure Coast’ located in Florida?

The ‘Treasure Coast’ is on the eastern coastline, named for its proximity to shipwrecks carrying valuable cargo, notably around Vero Beach.

Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Places to Metal Detect in Florida

In this article, I deeply explored the best places to metal detect in Florida in detail with their exact locations, maps, and metal detecting techniques.

The best places to metal detect in Florida include the Treasure Coast beaches like Vero Beach and Wabasso Beach, historic parks such as Bonsteel Park, and popular spots like Siesta Key and Sebastian Inlet, known for rich finds and scenic beauty.

Furthermore, I answered some frequently asked questions.

Hope you learned all you wanted to know about the best places to metal detect in Florida including experts’ tips and tricks.

Now book your next trip to the most nearby place mentioned in this article and start your Florida treasure-hunting journey like a pro!

Hi! I’m the treasure hunter and adventurer behind DetectingTreasures.com. I'm here to share my knowledge, inspire your adventures, and provide practical guides to help you succeed in your own treasure hunting journey. Read More...

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