Searching for buried treasure along the shoreline? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the best metal detectors for beach use, helping you uncover everything from lost jewelry to historical artifacts hidden beneath the waves and sand.
List of the Best Metal Detectors for Beach
Check out the thorough review of the best metal detectors for beach below.
1. MINELAB MANTICORE Waterproof Metal Detector
The MINELAB MANTICORE High-Power Multi-IQ+ Waterproof Metal Detector represents a leap forward in metal detection technology. Boasting Minelab’s cutting-edge Multi-IQ+ technology, this device offers 50% more power compared to traditional models, making it the most potent simultaneous multi-frequency detector available. The advanced 2D target ID map and enhanced audio options provide a comprehensive target identification system, allowing users to efficiently locate desired items amidst clutter.
This versatile metal detector is designed for all terrains, featuring 10 distinct search modes tailored for various environments, including inland, beach, and goldfield searches. Its waterproof capability extends to depths of 16 feet (IP68), ensuring reliability in wet conditions. The MANTICORE’s ultra-lightweight and compact design, adjustable from 56.7 inches to 24.8 inches, ensures ease of use and portability, making prolonged usage comfortable.
Additionally, customizable audio controls, a built-in flashlight, handgrip vibration, and backlit display and keypad enhance usability in low-light conditions. Customers consistently praise the MANTICORE for its high performance, ease of use, bright and readable color screen, user-friendly menus, and excellent value for a top-tier detector.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Power: 50% more power than traditional models.
- Advanced Target ID: Accurate and efficient target identification.
- All-Terrain Capability: Suitable for various environments with 10 search modes.
- Waterproof: Reliable up to 16 feet underwater.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to use for extended periods and portable.
Cons:
- Complexity: Advanced features may require a learning curve for beginners.
2. Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector
The Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector Bundle delivers exceptional performance and versatility for both novice and experienced treasure hunters. Equipped with Minelab’s revolutionary Multi-IQ technology, this detector offers simultaneous multi-frequency detection, rendering single frequency VLF detectors obsolete. With four detecting modes—Park, Field, Beach, and Gold—and six frequency options (Multi, 5kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz), the Equinox 800 adapts seamlessly to various terrains and targets.
Included in the bundle are essential accessories: the Minelab Pro Find 35 Pinpointer, a padded carry bag, and a finds pouch, enhancing the overall detecting experience. The EQX 11″ Double-D Smart Coil, paired with wireless Bluetooth and apt-X low latency headphones, ensures efficient and comfortable operation. Additionally, the WM 08 Wireless Audio Module and adjustable armrest contribute to user convenience.
Designed for serious coin and treasure enthusiasts, the Equinox 800 is also accessible to beginners with its pre-set modes and user-friendly setup manual. Customers appreciate its ease of use, high quality, and suitability for all ages, including children as young as ten. This lightweight, waterproof detector represents a significant upgrade without the high cost, offering state-of-the-art technology in a versatile package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multi-IQ Technology: Simultaneous multi-frequency detection.
- Versatile Modes: Four detecting modes for varied terrains.
- User-Friendly: Easy setup and operation, suitable for all ages.
- Wireless Audio: Includes Bluetooth headphones and WM 08 module.
- Complete Bundle: Comes with pinpointer, carry bag, and finds pouch.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Advanced features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
3. XP Metal Detectors XP Deus II
The XP Deus II Fast Multi-Frequency Metal Detector sets a new standard in metal detection with its advanced wireless technology and unparalleled performance. Utilizing XP’s patented radio protocol system, the coil, remote control, headphones, and optional pinpointer communicate wirelessly without latency, ensuring rapid and accurate target signal transmission. This innovative setup provides the DEUS II with exceptional speed and precision, crucial for detecting valuable targets efficiently.
Equipped with Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) technology, the DEUS II excels in diverse environments, from land to underwater, with a waterproof capability of up to 66 feet (20 meters). The detector includes a 9″ FMF search coil, enhancing its ability to detect various metals accurately. The ergonomic and lightweight design, coupled with a telescopic stem, ensures user comfort during prolonged use.
Included in the package are the XP MI-6 Pinpointer, wireless headphones with a storage case, and a remote control with a hipmount case, making this detector a comprehensive tool for serious treasure hunters. The DEUS II features 12 factory programs and 12 user-customizable programs, accommodating a wide range of detecting needs. With a robust battery life of up to 25 hours and a durable, five-year warranty, the XP Deus II is built to last and perform at the highest levels.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wireless Technology: No latency in signal transmission.
- FMF Technology: Excellent performance in varied terrains.
- Waterproof: Functional up to 66 feet underwater.
- Customizable Programs: 12 factory and 12 user programs.
- Ergonomic Design: Lightweight and comfortable for long-term use.
Cons:
- Complexity: Advanced features may require a learning curve.
4. Minelab CTX 3030 Waterproof Metal Detector
Equipped with a 17″ Smart Coil and an 11″ DD Smart Coil, this detector offers exceptional depth and target sensitivity. Its updated 2016 mechanical design improvements, including a new battery sand seal and armrest lock, enhance durability and ease of use.
A full-color LCD and advanced Target Trace discrimination provide clear, precise target identification, while Minelab’s exclusive integrated GPS locating and PC Mapping capabilities enable efficient tracking and mapping of search areas. The CTX 3030 is waterproof up to 10 feet, making it suitable for various terrains, including underwater environments.
The special bundle includes essential accessories such as UR-30 headphones, a WM-10 wireless module, a removable headphone module, and a universal AC wall adapter, ensuring a comprehensive and versatile detecting experience. With five preset search modes and ultimate FeCo discrimination, the CTX 3030 offers switch-on-and-go simplicity for both beginners and experienced detectorists.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced Target Trace Discrimination: Precise target identification.
- Integrated GPS: Efficient tracking and mapping capabilities.
- Waterproof: Suitable for various terrains, including underwater up to 10 feet.
- Versatile Coils: Includes both 17″ Smart Coil and 11″ DD Smart Coil.
- Comprehensive Bundle: Equipped with essential accessories for enhanced usability.
Cons:
- Weight: Heavier than some other models.
5. Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II Metal Detector
Equipped with an 8″ PROformance submersible search coil and submersible headphones, this detector is designed for underwater use up to 200 feet. The Sea Hunter Mark II features advanced pulse induction (PI) technology, which ensures superior depth and sensitivity, allowing users to detect treasures without interference from salt water and most ground minerals.
With adjustable audio threshold and user-adjustable discrimination, the Sea Hunter Mark II provides precise target identification and eliminates unwanted trash. Its discrete target elimination mode further enhances detection accuracy. The custom-designed, double o-ring sealed housing is both durable and lightweight, with individual, o-ring sealed battery and electronics compartments for hassle-free battery replacement.
This detector offers multiple configurations, including long stem with top stem mount, under cuff stem mount, hip mount, and short stem ScubaMate, providing versatility for various search environments such as beaches, lakes, and oceans. The included Pro Pointer AT adds pinpoint accuracy, making this bundle a comprehensive solution for all detecting needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Pulse Induction Technology: Superior depth and minimal interference.
- Versatile Configurations: Suitable for different environments and needs.
- Durable Design: Custom double o-ring sealed housing.
- User-Adjustable Discrimination: Precise target identification.
- Submersible: Functional up to 200 feet underwater.
Cons:
- Durability of Small Parts: Regular maintenance needed for o-rings and seals.
6. Minelab Excalibur II 1000 Metal Detector
The Minelab Excalibur II 1000 Waterproof Detector Bundle offers unparalleled versatility and performance, making it the ultimate choice for both underwater and land treasure hunting. Equipped with Minelab’s Broad Band Spectrum (BBS) technology, this detector operates on multiple frequencies ranging from 1.5 kHz to 25.5 kHz. This ensures superior sensitivity and depth detection, allowing users to uncover faint, deep targets while effectively cancelling ground noise and false signals, especially in saltwater environments.
Designed for use in various conditions, the Excalibur II transitions seamlessly from land, beach, and wet sand to underwater depths of up to 200 feet (66 meters). The high-visibility fluorescent bodywork and slimline 10″ Double-D submersible coil enhance ease of use and balance, while the included submersible headphones provide clear audio output even in challenging conditions.
The bundle includes a Minelab Pro Find 35 Pinpointer, a NiMH rechargeable battery pack with up to 19 hours of operation, a short shaft diving rod, and a comprehensive set of accessories, ensuring a complete and efficient detecting experience. Adjustable discrimination and sensitivity controls, along with automatic ground balance, allow for precise and customizable detection. With a weight of 5.1 lbs, the Excalibur II is robust yet manageable, designed for extended use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- BBS Technology: Multiple frequencies for superior sensitivity and depth.
- Versatility: Effective on land, beach, wet sand, and underwater up to 200 feet.
- Ground Cancelling: Eliminates false signals in saltwater.
- Long Battery Life: NiMH battery pack provides up to 19 hours of use.
- Comprehensive Bundle: Includes Pro Find 35 Pinpointer and essential accessories.
Cons:
- Weight: At 5.1 lbs, it may be heavy for prolonged use.
7. MINELAB Equinox 900 Metal Detector
Featuring the revolutionary Multi-IQ technology, it employs five frequencies simultaneously or allows users to choose from six single frequencies for targeted detection. This makes it highly versatile across all metal types and soil conditions.
Fully waterproof and submersible up to 16 feet (5 meters), the Equinox 900 is perfect for searching in wet environments, including beaches and shallow waters. It offers four distinct modes: Park for high-trash areas, Field for coins and artifacts, Beach for sandy environments, and Gold for gold prospecting. The built-in flashlight and handgrip vibration ensure usability in low-light conditions.
Accurate target identification is a standout feature, with a fast and precise 119 high-resolution Target ID system. The superior audio control, combined with low-latency wireless headphones, allows users to discern target size and depth with confidence. Lightweight at just 2.8 lbs (1.2 kg) and collapsible to 24 inches (61 cm), the Equinox 900 is highly portable and easy to pack for on-the-go treasure hunting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multi-IQ Technology: Simultaneous multi-frequency detection for all metals and soils.
- Fully Waterproof: Submersible up to 16 feet, ideal for wet environments.
- Accurate Target ID: Fast, precise identification with 119 high-resolution points.
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighs 2.8 lbs and collapses to 24 inches for easy transport.
- Versatile Modes: Four detection modes for various environments and targets.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Advanced features may require time to master.
8. Fisher CZ-21 Metal Detector
The Fisher CZ-21 Metal Detector with a 10″ coil is a premium underwater detection device, renowned for its durability and performance in challenging environments. This detector operates effectively on both dry land and underwater, capable of submersion up to 250 feet (76 meters). Utilizing dual frequency Fourier Domain Signal Analysis at 5 and 15 kHz, it provides superior detection capabilities in saltwater and freshwater conditions.
One of its standout features is the touch-button VCO no-motion pinpointing, which ensures precise target location without the need for constant movement. The CZ-21 offers an easy manual ground balance, making it highly effective in mineralized soils. Additionally, its All-Metal Auto-Tune mode and 3-tone audio target ID enhance target identification and discrimination, while the large target alert and faint target audio boost ensure no treasure is missed.
Designed with user convenience in mind, the removable control housing allows for belt mounting, reducing fatigue during extended use. Despite its analog operation, the CZ-21 remains highly effective and reliable, showcasing Fisher’s commitment to quality and performance. This detector is recommended for beach hunting, shallow water, lake and surf searches, and diving.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Submersion Depth: Operates effectively up to 250 feet underwater.
- Dual Frequency: Offers enhanced detection with 5 and 15 kHz frequencies.
- Audio Boost: Amplifies faint target signals, improving detection depth.
- Durable Build: Robust construction ensures longevity and reliability.
- Manual Ground Balance: Effective in mineralized soils for accurate detection.
Cons:
- Analog Operation: Lacks modern digital features and conveniences.
9. Garrett AT PRO Metal Detector
The Garrett AT Pro with PROformance DD Submersible Coil is an all-terrain metal detector designed for serious treasure hunters. This versatile detector operates at a 15 kHz frequency, providing enhanced detection depth and sensitivity. The included 8.5″ x 11″ PROformance DD submersible search coil significantly reduces the negative effects of heavily mineralized ground and saltwater interference, making it ideal for various environments.
With its Pro Mode Audio, the AT Pro delivers proportional audio response, enabling users to hear subtle changes in target response and accurately gauge target size and depth. The high-resolution iron discrimination feature allows for precise target identification, while the digital target ID and fast recovery speed enhance detection accuracy and efficiency. The detector also includes a continuous coin depth indicator and a graphic target analyzer for comprehensive target analysis.
The Garrett AT Pro is waterproof up to 10 feet, making it perfect for hunting in shallow water, beaches, and wet environments. The package includes the Master Sound 2 headphones, coil cover, search coil hardware kit, and four AA batteries, ensuring you are ready to start detecting immediately. With a two-year warranty, this detector offers reliability and peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- All-Terrain Versatility: Effective on land and underwater up to 10 feet.
- Pro Mode Audio: Provides proportional audio response for accurate target identification.
- High-Res Iron Discrimination: Enables precise discrimination of iron targets.
- Fast Recovery Speed: Enhances efficiency by quickly identifying multiple targets.
- Complete Package: Includes headphones, coil cover, and batteries for immediate use.
Cons:
- Waterproof Depth Limit: Limited to shallow water hunting up to 10 feet.
10. Nokta Simplex Lite Metal Detector
The Nokta Simplex Lite Metal Detector is a versatile and advanced tool for treasure hunting, offering top-tier features at an entry-level price. With a 9.5” waterproof DD search coil, this detector excels in various environments, including beaches and underwater settings, with a submersion capability of up to 16 feet (5 meters). Weighing just 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), it is lightweight and well-balanced, making it ideal for extended use without causing fatigue.
The Simplex Lite features a user-friendly design with a single menu interface, ensuring ease of operation for both beginners and experienced users. Its advanced lighting system includes an LCD backlight, keypad backlight, and an LED flashlight, allowing for effective use in low visibility conditions, both underwater and at night. The retractable shaft adjusts from 25 to 52 inches, enhancing portability and storage convenience.
A notable feature is the vibration mode, which alerts users to detected targets, making it perfect for underwater detection and for users with hearing impairments. The detector also supports online firmware updates via USB, ensuring that users can keep their device up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fully Waterproof: Submersible up to 16 feet, ideal for underwater detecting.
- Lightweight: Weighs only 2.6 lbs, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
- User-Friendly: Simple menu design for easy operation.
- Advanced Lighting: LCD backlight, keypad backlight, and LED flashlight for low visibility conditions.
- Vibration Alerts: Ideal for underwater detection and hearing-impaired users.
Cons:
- Limited Depth: Submersion capability is capped at 16 feet.
11. Teknetics EuroTek PRO Metal Detector
The Teknetics EuroTek PRO Metal Detector with an 8-inch concentric coil offers advanced features for efficient treasure hunting. Equipped with an iron target indicator and motion discrimination mode, this detector ensures precise target identification. Its Fe Tone variable iron discrimination allows users to adjust the audio volume for ferrous and non-ferrous targets, enhancing clarity on desirable finds.
With its turn-on-and-go functionality and lightweight design, the EuroTek PRO is easy to use and well-balanced, making it suitable for extended detecting sessions. It boasts a fast recovery speed and excellent target separation, excelling even in iron-infested sites where other detectors may struggle.
The detector’s Iron ID indicator illuminates when passing over iron targets, providing valuable feedback regardless of discrimination settings. Additionally, the no-motion pinpoint mode aids in target recovery, enhancing the overall detecting experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fe Tone Adjustable Iron Audio: Enhances clarity on desirable targets.
- Iron ID Indicator: Provides feedback on iron targets for improved discrimination.
- Turn-On-And-Go Design: Easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike.
- Fast Recovery Speed: Ensures efficient target detection, especially in iron-rich areas.
- Lightweight and Well-Balanced: Suitable for extended detecting sessions without causing fatigue.
Cons:
- Limited Coil Size: The 8-inch coil may not cover as much ground as larger coils.
What Makes a Good Beach Metal Detector?
When it comes to metal detecting on the beach, having the right equipment is crucial. A good beach metal detector needs to be able to handle the unique challenges that come with hunting in a saltwater environment. The combination of wet sand, salt water, and various types of mineralization can wreak havoc on lesser detectors, leading to false signals and missed targets.
One of the most important features to look for in a beach metal detector is waterproof construction. Even if you don’t plan on submerging your detector, the splashes and inevitable dunks that come with beach hunting demand a fully waterproof design. Many beach detectors are rated for full submersion up to a certain depth, giving you the freedom to hunt in shallow water without worry.
Another key factor is ground balance and discrimination capabilities. Beaches often contain high concentrations of salt mineralization, known as the “salt halo” effect, which can cause detectors to overload with false signals. The best beach detectors use advanced ground balancing technology to account for these mineralized areas, allowing you to separate good targets from unwanted signals. Adjustable discrimination is also essential for ignoring common beach trash like bottle caps and pull tabs while zeroing in on potential treasures.
Finally, a quality beach metal detector should be sensitive enough to pick up deeper targets while still having the ability to find smaller items close to the surface. Many experienced detectorists prefer models with multiple frequency options, as lower frequencies can penetrate deeper while higher frequencies excel at finding smaller jewelry and coins. Choosing the right frequency for the conditions and desired targets is key to successful beach hunting.
How to Choose the Best Metal Detectors for Beach?
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of swinging a metal detector over the warm sand, chasing those magical audio tones that could lead you to long-lost coins, jewelery, or other treasures from the deep. However, not just any old metal detector will do for this challenging but rewarding environment. With my years of experience beach hunting up and down coastal towns, I’ve learned what really separates the wheat from the chaff when it comes to picking the right metal detector for sandy shores.
Waterproof
Let’s start with the obvious – any decent beach metal detector absolutely must be waterproof. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve taken an unexpected dunking while wading out for that perfect shot. A quality beach detector, like the beloved Minelab Excalibur II, can shrug off full submersion up to 10 feet. Trust me, that kind of waterproofing can be a life (or should I say, machine) saver.
Next-Level Ground Balance Capabilities
One of the biggest challenges beach hunters face is the dreaded “salt mineralization” that can cover up good targets with a wall of distracting EMI chatter. That’s why top beach detectors like the Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II use advanced ground balancing technology to account for mineral variations and cut through that salty halo like a hot knife through butter.
Discrimination Prowess
Of course, no beach outing would be complete without digging up gobs of aluminum trash cans, bottle caps, and pull tabs. The best beach detectors allow you to precisely discriminate between those nuisance items and the good stuff like gold rings, silver coins, and relics from days gone by. Models with iron audio and multi-tone ID are your friends here.
Does Size Matter? You Bet
From a practical perspective, the overall size and weight of the metal detector can make a huge difference when you’re lugging it around for hours on the beach. Lightweight stem constructions and easy-griparms will pay major dividends after a day of swinging and digging. Plus, let’s be honest – a little style never hurts when you’re making the scene at your favorite honey holes.
Wrapping Up – Finding Your Perfect Beach Mate
At the end of the day, the “perfect” beach metal detector is really about finding the model that checks all the right boxes for your unique needs and budget. Are you a weekend warrior looking for an basic but reliable beach hunter? The Garrett Ace 400 could be your best bet. But if you’ve got deeper pockets and bigger dreams of cashing in on the mother lode, you’d be wise to look at heavy-hitters like the Minelab CTX 3030 or Nokta FORS CoRe.
What Are Some Tips for Successful Beach Metal Detecting?
While having a quality beach metal detector is crucial, there are several tips and techniques that can vastly improve your chances of finding good targets on the beach. One of the most important is to pay close attention to beach topography and target the right areas.
Look for low-lying areas, holes, and depressions in the sand where objects are more likely to accumulate and get trapped over time. The area where the beach meets the water’s edge is also a prime hunting spot, as this is where many people enter and exit the water, losing jewelry, coins, and other valuables.
Timing is also important when beach hunting. Going after a busy beach day or during low tide can greatly increase your odds of finding recently dropped items. However, being the first one out after storms can also pay off, as the shifting sands may have uncovered previously buried treasures.
Once you’ve identified a promising area, it’s important to be methodical and overlapping in your search pattern. Use your metal detector’s discrimination settings to ignore bottlecaps and pull-tabs, but be careful not to filter out good targets. Go slowly, overlapping your sweeps, and pay close attention to the audio and visual target indicators.
When you get a solid signal, pinpoint the target area by making tighter concentric sweeps. Once you’ve isolated it, carefully remove any surface layer of sand or debris and cut a neat plug to recover the target cleanly. Be sure to carry tools like digging scoops and probes, as well as a sturdy pouch or diggers’ apron to store your finds.
Persistence and patience are key virtues for successful beach hunters. The beach is constantly renewing itself as tides shift and new visitors arrive, so even well-hunted areas can eventually replenish with new targets to find. With the right techniques and a bit of luck, you’ll be pulling rings, coins, and other treasures from the sand in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Metal Detectors for Beach
What makes a good metal detector for beach use?
A good beach metal detector needs to be waterproof or water-resistant to withstand saltwater exposure. It should also have adjustable ground balance to account for mineralization in beach sand. Discrimination features are important for ignoring junk targets like bottle caps. Multi-frequency or pulse induction modes help with sensitivity in salt environments. Finally, lightweight and balanced designs make them more comfortable to use for extended periods.
What is the difference between beach and land metal detectors?
Beach detectors are designed specifically for use in mineralized salt environments like ocean beaches and saltwater areas. They have specialized ground balance systems that prevent excessive falsing from wet sand. Land detectors are not built with these adjustments in mind, so they will struggle with stability and accuracy at salt beaches.
What are the top beach metal detector brands?
Some of the best metal detector brands for beach and saltwater use include Minelab, Garrett, Nokta/Makro, Teknetics, XP and Fisher. These manufacturers produce machines engineered for mineral and salt water conditions with submersible, waterproof designs.
What frequency is best for beach detecting?
There is no single best frequency, as different targets respond better to different frequencies. For general beach use, multi-frequency models or those with both high and low operating frequencies perform best. Low frequencies around 5-15 kHz provide better ground penetrating depth. Higher frequencies like 15-70 kHz are more sensitive to smaller objects like jewelry and coins.
Can regular detectors be used on the beach?
Entry-level VLF detectors without ground tracking can technically be used on the beach, but their performance will be severely hampered by ground mineralization and saltwater exposure. These machines are not weatherproof and not designed to handle harsh beach conditions. Using a dedicated beach or underwater model is highly recommended.
How deep can beach detectors detect targets?
Depth penetration depends on several factors like frequency, coil size, soil conditions, and the size/material of the target itself. As a general rule, most quality beach detectors can sense large objects like trash over 2 feet down and small jewelry/coins down to 6-12 inches in optimal mineralized sand.
What key features should I look for in a beach metal detector?
The most important features are waterproof construction, automated ground balance or tracking, multi-frequency or pulse operation modes, adjustable discrimination controls, and headphone ports. Ergonomic designs with arm rests and good weight balancing are also ideal for all-day saltwater use.
Final Thoughts
As any seasoned beach hunter will tell you, there’s no greater feeling than extracting a gleaming gold ring, ancient relic, or handful of coins and shells from underneath that inviting sandy surface. With the right metal detector by your side, those experiences can be yours over and over again.
While there’s no such thing as a true “best” model for every situation, the detectors highlighted in this guide all excel at the key criteria for productive beach hunting: waterproof construction, ground balancing technology, solid detection depth, target separation abilities, and ergonomic ease-of-use.
Enjoyed this guide of the Best Metal Detectors for Beach? Then be sure to check out our other metal detector guides.