Sanderlings are probably the most widespread shorebird in the world. In North America, they are quite common along both coasts. These birds breed in the high arctic regions. They winter along most temperate and tropical beaches from British Columbia and Nova Scotia south to southern South America.
In Florida, Sanderlings are a common fall through spring visitor. They start arriving in late July-September and depart by March-May. Some non-breeding birds remain in Florida throughout the summer.