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 Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector is a solid choice if you’re looking for a versatile and user-friendly detector suitable for beach hunting and general treasure seeking. It operates at 10 KHz, which is a good middle ground frequency, offering decent depth detection for various types of metals, although it’s not specialized for deep saltwater use. Its IP54 rating means it’s resistant to water splashes and dust, but it’s not fully waterproof, so it’s better suited for wet sand or shoreline use rather than underwater searching.

One of its strengths is the Digital Target ID, which uses a clear 0-99 scale to help identify metal types and improve your chances of digging up something valuable instead of junk. The Iron Audio feature is useful too, as it lets you hear iron targets like bottle caps before you dig, saving you time. Adjustable frequency helps reduce interference if you’re in crowded areas with other detectors or electrical noise. Weighing about 5.5 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side, but it offers adjustable length for comfort, making it manageable for longer sessions. The inclusion of headphones and protective covers is a nice bonus, so you’re ready to go right out of the box.

Battery life at around 5 hours is decent for a day at the beach, but keep spare batteries handy for extended outings. The ACE 400 handles most beach conditions well, but if you plan to dive or search in deeper water, you might want to consider a fully waterproof model. It is a dependable, beginner-friendly detector with helpful features that make beach metal detecting rewarding and less frustrating.

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.