The International Beachcombing Conference offers consummate and novice beachcombers alike the opportunity to come together to meet, greet and learn more about the beachcombing experience and the science which makes beachcombing possible. 

Speakers include nationally-known environmentalists, oceanographers, anthropologists, geologists and photographers, many of whom are also award-winning authors. Attendees will gain a broader view of the factors affecting our beaches worldwide and how they affect the beachcombing experience. 

Have you ever wondered what the beach artifacts you find are, or where they came from? With the guidance of experts, learn how to trace the origins of your collected beach treasures. 

Learn about paleontology, anthropology, ethics and climate change during conference lectures and panel discussions. You will have the chance to attend workshops, field practica and artifact identification sessions designed for all levels of experience. Throughout the weekend, attendees can browse also artisans' beach crafts and jewelry at the Holiday Beach Bazaar. On Saturday night have a great time at the Beachcombers' Bash dancing to live music!

The conference is open to only 200 participants so early registration is encouraged. 

Philip Merrill Environmental Center
6 Herndon Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21403
phone: 410/268-8816

The site for this year's conference will be the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Phillip Merrill Environmental Center. The Center is situated directly on a beautiful Chesapeake Bay beach near Annapolis, offering participants the perfect venue to gain firsthand knowledge of this region and of the beachcombing world. 

Chesapeake beaches are rich in paleontology and history. Learn about Miocene fossils, Native American societies and colonialists as well as Victorian seaside resorts and pre-WWI summer communities. You will find a wide variety of beach treasures to discover including prehistoric fossils, beach glass, shells, driftwood, stones and ceramic shards. 

Aristans will be exhibiting in the lobby of the Conference center.

If you have questions please contact Claire Hudson, Executive Director of The Society for Ocean Sciences.
email: hudson@societyoceansciences.org