10 Best Beach Metal Detectors 2026 in the United States

The Minelab Manticore stands out with its Multi-IQ+ technology, delivering strong 12 kHz operating frequency across multiple simultaneous frequencies, which helps detect a wide variety of metals with improved accuracy. This makes it particularly good for beach detecting where different metals and minerals might be mixed in. The detector features advanced ground balance and discrimination settings that allow you to filter out trash and focus on valuable finds, a big help when searching sandy or mineral-rich beach environments. It’s waterproof up to 16 feet (IP68 rating), so it’s well-suited for use in surf zones and shallow water, expanding where you can hunt for treasure.

The included 11-inch double-D coil balances good coverage with maneuverability, though larger coils might cover more area faster in open spaces. Weighing just 2.9 pounds and designed to fold compactly, it’s comfortable to carry and use for extended sessions without tiring your arm. Additional helpful features include customizable audio signals, a built-in flashlight, and backlit display, which make identifying targets easier even in low light or challenging conditions.

The advanced features are excellent for serious hobbyists, but beginners might find the number of modes and settings a bit overwhelming initially. Also, the price point reflects its professional-level tech, so it’s an investment best suited for those committed to regular treasure hunting rather than casual use. The Minelab Manticore provides a powerful, versatile, and durable solution for beach metal detecting, blending strong performance with user-friendly design, ideal for those wanting to explore both land and water with confidence.

The Minelab EQUINOX 800 bundle, including the EQX 6 coil, is a solid choice for beach metal detecting enthusiasts. It uses advanced multi-frequency technology that runs five frequencies at once, helping you find various types of metals more effectively in different soil and beach conditions. This means it can detect everything from small gold pieces to coins and jewelry with good precision. The 6-inch double-D coil is designed to be sensitive to small targets and works well even in trashy or challenging terrain, which is common on busy beaches.

Both the detector and coil are fully waterproof up to 10 feet, so you can comfortably search in shallow water, wet sand, or riverbeds without worry. Weighing just under 3 pounds, it’s light enough for long hours of use without causing too much fatigue, and it has an adjustable length to fit users of different heights. Its discrimination feature helps filter out unwanted metals, making your hunt more productive by focusing on valuable finds. One point to note is the operating frequency listed at 5 kHz, which is a bit low for tiny gold nuggets but is balanced by the multi-frequency design as a whole.

The price might be on the higher side compared to basic models, but the professional features and waterproof design justify this for serious beach treasure hunters. If you want a versatile, durable detector that performs well in wet environments and varied soil types, this bundle is a dependable choice.

The MINELAB X-Terra PRO is a strong contender in the beach metal detector category, designed for both casual and serious treasure hunters. One of its standout features is the Pro-Switch technology, allowing users to switch frequencies, which enhances its ability to detect targets at greater depths under varying conditions. This makes it particularly useful for beachgoers who want to search for treasures in both sand and water. Plus, it's fully waterproof up to 16 feet, so you can explore underwater locations without worry.

The detector offers three modes—Park, Field, and Beach—tailored to different environments, which means you can easily switch based on where you're searching. The audio control is another highlight, enabling users to differentiate between trash and treasure, which is crucial for effective hunting.

On the ergonomic side, the X-Terra PRO weighs just 2.9 lbs, making it lightweight and comfortable for extended use. The compact design allows for easy transport, fitting into most backpacks, which is a bonus for those planning day trips to the beach. There are some drawbacks to consider. While the various detection modes are beneficial, some users might find the learning curve steep when first starting out. Additionally, while the battery life is decent, prolonged use may require having extra batteries on hand, especially during long outings.