Can you take seashells and corals out of Thailand? What happens if you try to take them from the beach, and how can you legally bring a souvenir?

Exporting seashells and corals from Thailand is strictly prohibited by law. Moreover, the ban applies not only to export itself, but also to collecting these items on beaches and reefs. If you simply pick up a beautiful shell on the shore and put it in your suitcase, customs may regard this as a violation.

If you really want to bring a shell home as a souvenir, buy it in a souvenir shop — be sure to keep the receipt, which states 'Souvenir shell, not endangered species'. Such shops are available in all tourist areas and at the airport. A legally purchased shell with documents will not raise questions at customs. The same applies to coral products — buy them only from certified points of sale.

Please note that the ban applies to all natural shells and corals, even dead ones. Don't risk it: the amount of the fine and the prospect of criminal prosecution are not worth a pretty trinket.

You can learn more about all Thai customs rules in our reliable and honest guide in the article Thailand Customs 2026 for Tourists: A Complete Guide to Import, Export, and VAT Refund — there we analyze all the nuances in detail, including the bans on exporting shells, corals, and other natural souvenirs.