The beach is a beautiful place to spend time, and in this article, we’ll explore the alternative to a swim or sunbathing during your day at the beach. We’re discussing metal detection and the search for sun-soaked treasure.
Searching is not for the faint of heart. Bystanders and holidaymakers will have plenty of questions for you as you comb the beaches with your metal detector.
To avoid curious crowds and execute a successful search, consider visiting the beach when the weather is less attractive to beachgoers.
There will be fewer people, and you can take the time to detect metals. We’ve outlined for you the best detectors and important features for your best beach search.
Top Best Metal Detector for the Beach
1. Garrett ATX Deepseeker
- Maximum Detection on all targets at the same time. No need to switch modes to…
- LED Indicators: show signal strength and current settings. Waterproof Speaker:…
- Frequency Scan: auto function for minimizing RFI interference. Volume Control:…
- Advanced Ground Balance: has wide range to ground balance from heavily…
- Motion and Non-Motion Modes: provides optimum performance based on your hunting…
This metal detector looks like a mine detector. It is an excellent option when looking for an efficient gadget that works in all weather conditions.
The ATX Deepseeker is accurate and so easy to work with, allowing you to explore different areas.
With this model, you can carefully scan the desired area. If a valuable has been lost, you’re sure to find it. Search for trinkets, treasures and valuable antiques. Its search functions hold up in every environment—wet weather, severe debris, even sandy soil.
The Garrett ATX Deepseeker carefully scans your area of choice and detects anything metallic, ensuring you recover valuables lost on the beach. You may be lucky to find your fortune lying deep in the waters or sands along your favorite beach.
No matter the weather, don’t cancel your exploration adventure; just find the right tool and get ready to discover.
The ATX Deepseeker has a coil that enables it to filter minerals effectively. It shows you where the metal is before your excavation begins. You get to know how deep the metal, gold nuggets, old coins, artifact, or jewelry is located.
Features:
- Simultaneous detections of various targets without adjustment
- Modern system detunes different types of soils, including highly mineralized ground and saltwater
- Coil comes with DD design, elevating chances of finding small, metallic items while maintaining scanner speed
- Dual modes—Static or In Motion.
- Fully collapsible with an adjustable bar which fixes in various positions.
- Four settings for soil balance to test for ferrous metals
- LED indicators with clear display signal strong enough for quick metal detection
- Waterproof speakers ensure integrity of device in wet environment
- Loud volume settings to determine even smallest indicator sounds
2. Fisher 1280X-8
- Turn on & go operation – submersible up to 250 feet – full range target…
- Adjustable sensitivity control – audio and visual target response
- 8” and 10” coil options – up to 75+ hours of battery life
- Operating Frequency: 2.4 kHz
- Recommended for: beach hunting, shallow water, lake /surf, diving
This metal detector is unique as it works very well in salty waters and can easily go deep in search of ferrous materials. It can withstand the harshness of deep salty waters.
The Fisher 1280x is created for underwater metal detection allowing you to dive as deep as you wish. If you want to reach the most hidden metallic treasures, this device is for you.
The versatile Fisher 1280X can also be used in the surface search along the beach. Regardless of how deep you want to go into the sea, this scanner comes in handy and doesn’t corrode due to exposure to saltwater.
Features:
- Applies high salinity to the soil
- Flexible and manually adjustable for the balance of the ground.
- Variable threshold signal
- Auto threshold
- Noise-resistant channels
3. Minelab CTX 3030
Minelab CTX 3030 is one of the latest in the Minelab line. It was released in 2012, and it takes metal detection to an expert level. The device uses advanced concepts with an easy-to-carry design.
It looks like a straight barbell but at the top is battery pack. The bar has a smooth finish made of carbon fiber with a standard height. The CTX 3030 has an elevated offset unit, which is a separate branch and has a colored display of 3.5 inches.
On the rear side, it has a speaker, USB connector, and the additional trigger to help pinpoint metals. The battery pack counters the weight of the detectors and increases the ability to detect metals. The headphone comes in handy for weak signals.
Properties of Minelab CTX 3030:
- Water-resistant—perfect for beach use
- Versatile functionality for use on dry land
- Functional up to three meters under water
- Wireless audio allows freedom to search for metals in the water
- Loudspeaker option in WM10 wireless mode
- Feco discrimination ability ensures equipment detects targets with the right iron content, saving time by eliminating useless ferrous objects from the list of items detected
- “Target Trace and Target Separation” enables accurate identification and detection of multiple targets simultaneously
- Latest GPS navigation features including Waypoints, GeoHunts, GeoTrails and FindPoints enabling remote navigation
- PC cartography allows computer download of treasure locations and detector settings using the XChange 2 app
- Scanner allows uploadable data to re-examine favored areas with the help of Google Maps
- Full-color LCD displays precise detail regarding object with optimal resolution
- Speedy identification process
- Designed to reject or detect targets easily.
4. CZ-21
The CZ-21 is used as deep as 250 feet underwater. It is among the best metal detectors to use in deep seas, withstanding the harshness of salty waters. This multi-functional device can also be used in freshwaters to find metals and has the rare and coveted audio tone target ID, perfect for beachcombing.
Features:
- Single-touch pinpoint
- Dual-frequency
- Manual ground balance
- Autotune for all metals
- Three-tone audio ID
- Effective target audio alert
- Adjustable volume, discrimination, and sensitivity
5. White’s Beachhunter 300
If you want to comb beaches effectively, the White’s BeachHunter 300 is the best optionas it differentiates between metallic trash and real treasures found in the water or on sandy beaches.
Sporting a removable electronic control system, the BeachHunter 300 has LED-colored code to help you determine the value of the detected metal. You should understand the sensitivity in metal detection. A waterproof construct makes it perfect for underwater dives up to 7.5 meters. The Spider coil is 12-inch, which makes it excellent for metal detection in deep waters.
The BeachHunter 300’s epoxy coating ensures the device is buoyant but submersible, ensuring the coil will not sink or get pushed to float on the water. Piezo headphones facilitate easy detection and are waterproof, perfect for avoiding water damage. A dual-frequency system optimizes search in water and on sands.
You can set your BeachHunter 300 to detect all metals or dynamic discrimination, and its three controls adjust your device’s threshold background, soil balance, and sensitivity.
Features:
- Multi-function controls—soil balance, sensitivity, and background
- Removable control unit
- Dual frequencies
- Effective in salty and freshwaters
- Water resistant
- LED identification
Choosing the Best Metal Detector
Metal detectors are available in a wide range of models and styles. You will find professional and low-cost ones. They come with different features and the ability to explore different water depths. If you need a metal detector not only for the beach but for other surfaces then you should check out our post on the best metal detector on the market.
Understand your product to make the best choice for fruitful deep water and sand exploration.
Coil size determines how efficiently and accurately you can identify metallic targets. Understanding the coil quality is equally important. An eclipse coil should be less than 6 by 10 inches. If the coil is round, it should be 8 inches or less.
Coil type is about personal preference. While most people prefer mono coils the DD coil is just as effective.
Frequency determines the depth of your dig. While cheap metal detectors are available for those on a tight budget, the more expensive metal detector will provide a higher frequency. Operating at a frequency of 13 kHz to 15 kHz or even higher will warrant a deeper, quality search with sharp target definition. You’ll be better equipped to detect small objects and those with electrical conductivity such as gold.
What’s more, high frequency provides better metals separations. Your metal detector is protected against electrical interference, and therefore you can use it in all areas, including beaches close to cities.
Submersable, water resistant, and waterproof constructs are important to specific hunts. The metal detector you choose to buy should be determined by your search type. From shallow searches, to coastal land searches where your machine is not in contact with water, you’ll want to do your research and understand how you’ll be using your machine.
Metal Detectors for Non-Water Detection
If you want to search for metals without getting into the water, you do not have to buy a professional waterproof detector. Away from the waters, the tightness of a device is not important. Explore areas with surf, especially the most freshly washed sand along the coastal zone.
For salty waters such as a sea beach, you have to find a gadget that can work efficiently regardless of the condition.
Metal detection is important because water moves different targets, including coins, earrings, and rings. The surf area is the best to explore because it has not been studied and so you are likely to find treasure. Never skip the surf areas.
Metal Detectors for Water Use
If you want to get into the sea, it means digging a little deeper and dealing with water. One of your hands will be holding the detector, and you’ll balance a shovel on the other.
This is suitable for scuba divers with all the gear and gadgets to keep them safe under the water. Since there is the risk to drop your detector, get one with a sealed enclosure.
This also allows you to excavate with both hands when you need to without losing your gadget.
When Water Reaches Your Waist
For waist-deep water, you should get a metal detector for scuba divers. The device must have a tightly sealed enclosure and have the ability to withstand immersion.
You must have the right scuba/dive gear to avoid freezing. Wear a mask that will allow you to see what you are doing. What’s more, your detector must have earphones so you can hear the signal sound.
Beach Searching
To search the beach, you must be prepared for contact with the water. You need the scuba when searching for metals on the beach as it will sift through the sand and leave you with the findings. You choose the length of your scuba’s handle based on the type of search you’re performing.
Available handle lengths include long, medium, and short. Remember to lean on the scuba foot when digging out a target; it helps you avoid bending over. You’ll need a pinpointer for effective beach hunting as it helps you identify the target quickly on the rocky bottom
Ponds often have rocky bottoms and, not necessarily a beach, people swim here, and you can find exciting and vintage metallic items. Metal detection on the beach requires:
- Detector with a tight enclosure.
- Scoop
- Shovel
- Pinpoint
With the proper tools, you’ll avoid losing your treasure to the surrounding waters.
Geographic Protocols for Metal Search on the Shores
There are some countries that have stipulated rules and procedures for investigating metal deposits at the beach. Know your regulations and secure the proper paperwork and permission when required.
Here is a list of such regulations from various countries.
- Australia This is a mineral-rich country hence excavation of these metals is allowed at the seashore. Over the years, nothing significant has been found on the Australian beaches as compared to other continents.
- Austria The government is protective of the beach areas. One has to get approval from the designated office that protects historical sites.
- Belarus Six years ago, the Belarus government enacted a law to protect specific beach areas, most regions of historic significance, and privately owned lands by the shore. Since 2013, metal search at the beach area has been highly restricted.
- Belgium Hunting for historic metal deposits is not allowed for private lands but open in the wider beach area.
- England England offers permits to anyone who wishes to find metal at the beach area, but one has to seek a private permit from the landowners. In some areas, one has to pay a fee. Any discovery must be declared to the public. Any attempt to confiscate such findings is illegal. There is also a way of determining the worth of these findings. Not every item is viewed as a treasure in spite of its origin. Roman lead plates, for instance, are not upheld as historical finds.
- Germany One has to obtain a permit before setting out to search for treasure in the water or along the beach. The search is conducted using a beach metal detector.
- Greece The Ministry in charge of culture offers permits to the holders of metal detectors. Additionally, hunters must seek approval of the local town office near the beach. However, one is not allowed to search for artifacts. It is illegal and one can be imprisoned for breaking this law.
- Italy The beach area is totally controlled by the government, hence no one is allowed to treasure hunt in such lands.
- Canada There is no historic piece that one can actually find in the beach area. However, the landowners may allow search using metal detectors because tunneling or burrowing is against the law.
- Portugal Initially, no one was allowed to detect metal in Portugal. Currently, it is allowed in parts of Portimao and Lagoa where clubs seek permission to dig. You can get special permission for beach searches. It is usually given by local administrations, and it’s for locals only.
- Russia Searching for historical findings is against the law, but if one wants to explore the beach, it is allowed.
- USA The only restrictions are for digging or tunneling any treasures. But any search using an iron detector is legal. If one has an interest in private lands, then the consent of the property owner must be given. Otherwise, any metal search in privately owned properties without legal permission is considered a crime in the US.
- Ukraine You cannot detect metals in any historical monuments. It is strictly forbidden and against the law.
- Switzerland Metal search is allowed to a larger extent using a metal detector, but one has to seek guidelines from the respective local office. The rules differ from one region to another. In every county, canton, and semi-canton, there are rules. They differ and some areas forbid metal detection while others allow.
- Sweden One cannot search for metal in all the beach areas, whether public or private. It is against the law.
Check out more products like these and accerssories you can add to your beach treasure hunt journey:
- 🌺🌺POINTER SCREEN DISPLAY & SIMPLE TO USE: New OMMO metal detector with a pointer screen to display, it is more convenient that you can see the detection mode, sensitivity level, and battery condition. When the metal target is found, the meter pointer swings to the right. Rotate the switch counterclockwise to OFF to turn off the unit. Rotate it clockwise away from OFF to turn on the unit. When you rotate the SENS from 0 to 10, the sensitivity is gradually increased
- 🌺🌺4 MODES OF OPERATIONS: OM-C011 metal detector has four distinct modes that make you can optimize from in detecting metals.①DISCRIMINATION-- Deselect the metal you don't want, In this mode, the unit comes with auto ground balance. ②TONE--- Upgraded OM-C011 can discriminate the metal type by emitting a high or low tone. ③PINPOINT---To pinpoint the target accurately by lowering the sensitivity. ④ALL METAL---To search for all kinds of metal objects
- 🌺🌺WATERPROOF & ACCURACY: The diameter of OMMO gold metal detector search coil is 10 inches, the bigger the search coil is, the higher the sensitivity, the metal detector kit detects coin-size targets up to 8 inches deep, and larger target up to 4 feet. Let you detecting more efficient and time-saving. Waterproof search coil enables you to use detecting to underwater, Perfect for outdoor, like beach, stream, yard. (Note: the control box is not waterproof)
- 🌺🌺HUMANITY DESIGN & ADJUSTABLE: Don't worry about the length of the stem, the gold and silver metal detectors from 30 inches to 43-inch adjustable stem, suitable for different height people. With the simple pointer display design, this is an amazing metal detector for adults. The armrest design helps you to save more effort, more comfortable and less stressful. Let's start your treasure hunt with the lovely OMMO metal detector
- 🌺🌺FULL ACCESSORIES, MEET YOUR NEEDS: You can not only get 1×Metal Detector but also have 1×Carrying Bag, 2×9V Battery, 1× Shovel, 1×Headphone, it has a headset jack that can be used with conventional headsets. if you're a beginner, OMMO Metal Detector is always suitable for you. If you have any problems, please feel free to contact us
- 【Top Metal Detector For Beginners】PANCKY adult metal detector has 5 different modes to bring endless fun to your adventure. 🚩All METAL MODE , 🚩DISC MODE , 🚩MEMORY MODE , 🚩JEWELRY MODE, 🚩PINPOINTER. We are equipped with a complete set of accessories, Start your treasure hunting journey and pursue hidden wealth!
- 【Upgraded DSP Chip】The second-generation DSP chip metal detector developed by PANCKY providing higher 25% detection speed, sensitivity, and accuracy than other detectors on the market. The stable reception of detection signals can help you find treasures in the shortest possible time. PANCKY can accurately locate maximum depth of up to 10 inches a quarter coin underground. Its professional-level performance can satisfy your ever-growing thirst for exploration and help you find your true "gold".
- 【Intuitive Large LCD Display 】User-friendly interface specifically developed and designed for beginners. The backlight function enables easy treasure hunting in low light or nighttime conditions. The silicone buttons, designed for easy operation, provide satisfying tactile feedback and sensitivity, offering greater flexibility. It’s convenient for you to get the type of metal target, depth, recognition, sensitivity level, operating mode, which let you detecting more efficient
- 【10inch IP68 Waterproof Search Coil】10 inches waterproof search coil equipped with built-in copper wire distribution technology allows for easy penetration of water layers and enables large-scale, sensitive detection even underwater, ensuring that metal enthusiasts can unravel the mysteries of treasures even in shallow water areas. The metal detector can be easily cleaned and stored. (Note: The control box is not waterproof.)
- 【Height Adjustable & Ergonomics Design】 47.3" to 55.2" adjustable length suits for adults of different height and is also suitable for kids. 2.4lbs lightweight, adjustable armrest and an anti-slip handle that equips your hunting experience with comfort.
- HEAVY-DUTY PLASTIC – Constructed from reinforced, heavy-duty single-piece plastic, the sand scoop and Shovel is durable and rustproof & anti corrosion so you can use it in any weather.
- IDEAL FOR METAL DETECTOR:These set is great accessories for metal detecting, a must-have for kids and adults at the beach. Since it’s made of plastic, you won’t have to worry about any false positives.
- TREASURE HUNTING :The scoop features 129 holes, each with a diameter of 0.38”~0.5” .The holes will assist you with removing dirt and sand while locating your treasure on the beach or river bed Quickly.
- VERSATILE DIGGING TOOL: This tool is great for outdoor, help you Easily find historic artifacts, coins, jewelry, and other hidden treasures, whether you love metal detecting, shelling at the beach, or digging for rocks in any terrain.
- LIGHTWEIGHT：This set weighs about 12 oz. making it easy to use for both kids and adults. It will fit inside most standard-sized backpacks and won’t add too much to your carry weight.
- 【10" Deeper Detection Depth】Our professional metal detector kit is upgraded with DSP chip, which has higher sensitivity. In all metal mode, it can detect a depth of 10 inches, which is 2 inches deeper than other metal detectors.
- 【Higher Accuracy】This metal detector uses the latest integrated circuits to improve the efficiency of the chip algorithm, and will not cause the target to be lost because of your detection rate is too fast. It has a very strong anti-interference, so that it can be more precise and more efficient in the detection process.
- 【5 Strong Detection Modes】The metal detector has 5 different metal detection modes. It will be a good helper for you to find coins and treasures. ①All metal mode: 7 kinds of targets can be detected. ②DISC mode: 5 targets can be eliminated in sequence: bottle cap, foil, 5￠, pull tab, 1￠. ③Notch mode: freely discriminate against the 4 categories of foil, 5￠, pull tab, and 1￠, ignoring garbage and unwanted objects. ④Pinpoint mode: It can locate the target more accurately. ⑤ Volume mode.
- 【Adjustable Metal Detector】36.2" to 47.2" height adjustable valve stem is suitable for children and adults. You can enjoy detecting joy with your child at home, or pack it up for easy travel to any of your favorite treasure hunting spots.
- 【IP68 Waterproof Search Coil】The 10-inch large search coil guarantees your detection efficiency. IP68 waterproof technology enables you to perform shallow water detection. (Note: The control box is not waterproof ) This SUNPOW saltwater metal detector is very suitable for outdoor activities, such as seaside, beach, stream, etc.
- 【Ease of Use】Its large LCD display makes this metal detector so simple and intuitive to use with clearly labeled buttons and indicators that a complete novice can use to locate cool treasures like gold, coins, jewelry and more straight out of the box. With the advanced technology and powerful searching features, this professional metal detector is a perfect gift for both beginner and advanced hobbies in treasure hunting.
- 【Unparalleled Detecting Performance】 Equipped with a 10 inch large waterproof search coil, this GC-1020 metal detector provides the best sensitivity in its class, which can detect metals up to 9.8 inches beneath the surface. It is capable of detecting a wider range of metal, from coins and relics to precious metals like silver and gold. Its rugged design makes it perfect for hunting on all terrains, including backyards, local parks, deserts, beaches or shallow waters.
- 【Advanced feature-packed】The GC-1020 metal detector comes with 4 detection modes, 12 levels of sensitivity, 3 audio tones and depth indication, which can maximize both the efficiency and accuracy of your treasure hunting, making this hobby a more rewarding experience.
- 【Ultra Lightweight & Ergonomic Design】The metal detector weighs just 2.2 pounds, and it's adjustable between 39 inches to 53 inches, which makes it fit perfectly for both children and adults.The S shaped handle with padded armrest and cushioned hand grip gives you the best comfortability for longer enjoyment of treasure hunting.
- 【100% Satisfaction Guarantee】We are so confident about our product quality that all of our metal detectors come with a 2-year factory warranty and lifetime technical support. If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, please let us know. Our US based customer service team will take care of you just like their own family members.
- 【6 Types of Metal Samples & 4 Strong Detection Modes】SUNPOW adult metal detector can detect metals including iron, aluminum, gold, bronze, silver and their articles in ALL METAL Mode. The DISC & NOTCH Modes make you can ignore unwanted metal improving the detection efficiency, then you can pinpoints the location of target accurately in P/P Mode.
- 【Humanized Design & Adjustable Stem】Equipped with 47.3" to 55.2" adjustable stem applicable to different height gold detector enthusiasts. It has got an ergonomic design that involves adjustable armrest and an anti-slip handle that equips your hunting experience with comfort. Besides, we also provide one backpack, so you can pack it up for easy travel to any of your favorite treasure hunting spots.
- 【Ground Balance-Strong Anti-interference】The content of micro metals in different environments is different, which causes certain errors in the detection process. Our professional metal detectors have ground balance adjustment function in ALL-METAL mode, which can be adjusted according to different environments to reduce interference.
- 【Advanced DSP Chip】Upgraded DSP chip improves metal detectors' search range and sensitivity. In All-Metal mode, it can locate a quarter coin up to 10" underground. Let it helps you to explore the hidden treasure.
- 【10 inch Waterproof Search Coil】IP68 waterproof metal detector can work well in shallow water(saltwater). Perfect for beach, stream, and other outdoor activities. You can find treasures that hidden from the eyes of the majority with this treasure finder. (Note: the control box is not waterproof).
- Backlit Display (Backlight)
- FeTone, Adjustable Iron Audio
- Enhanced V-Break, Tone Discrimination System
- Notch Window with Adjustable Notch Width
- Computerized GROUND GRAB, One Touch Ground Balance with Manual Override
- 👣👣HIGH ACCURACY & WATERPROOF SEARCH COIL: 10-inch metal detector with IP68 waterproof search coil, it has a high sensitivity, it detecting depth of up to 8 inches deep for small coins and metal objects, larger objects up to 3 feet. Waterproof search coil enables you to use detecting to underwater, Perfect for outdoor, like beach, stream, and yard. (Note: the control box is not waterproof)
- 👣👣3 STRONG MODES OF OPERATIONS: OMMO metal detector kit has three distinct modes that make you can optimize from in detecting metals. ① All Metal Mode - the metal detector notifies you whenever it sees any metal. ② Disc Mode - you can utilize this gold metal detector to discriminate against other types of metal for a specific one. ③ Pinpoint – According to your environment to choose the different positioning strength, aids in the detection of metals by beeping
- 👣👣LARGE BACK-LIT LCD DISPLAY: Usually is used beach metal detectors for adults, which equipped with a large back-lit LCD screen to display different detecting depth, discrimination, operating mode, overload warning, sensitivity level, and battery level you can get information intuitively from the screen, which let you detecting more efficient and time-saving
- 👣👣HUMANITY DESIGN & ADJUSTABLE: Don't worry about the length of the stem, the metal detector from 30 inches to 41-inch adjustable stem, suitable for different height adults. And the armrest design will help you to save more effort, makes you more comfortable and less stressed. Let's start your treasure hunt with the lovely OMMO metal detector
- 👣👣KINDLY KNOW THAT:There are some factors are likely to interfere with the correct signal from the metal detector. 1) Not put the device on the floor, cause most of the building floor has much metal embed. 2) Not suggested to use it indoors, large appliances can also interfere with metal detectors. 3) If you use it outdoors, avoid highly mineralized soil, places with metal waste. If you carry a digging tool, please also place it a little further away from the metal detector when detecting