If you’re anything like me, you love everything to do with the beach. The thing I love the most is beachcombing and collecting natural treasures that the ocean has unexpectedly swept onto the coast. From driftwood to shells, sea pottery to pebbles, messages in a bottle, and other tiny trinkets. Discover the world’s most fascinating beaches with me, where the sand and sea give way to one of their best treasures: sparkling sea glass.
In addition to the bountiful sea glass, which is nature’s very own restoration project, these beaches offer scenic beauty and a relaxing retreat. Although I haven’t visited all of these beaches, I have been to many. I live on the east coast of England, a three-minute walk from the beach, and I’m a true beachcomber. So, here’s my list of 15 sea glass beaches from across the world that you need to experience.
But before we start, please remember to respect these beaches and their ecosystems while collecting sea glass. Always follow local rules and regulations, and check local laws before you visit, as it is illegal in some jurisdictions to remove sea glass from the beach. Please avoid disturbing wildlife and damaging natural habitats. This ensures that the beach’s pristine condition is preserved for future generations of sea glass enthusiasts to enjoy.
Seaham Beach, England
Nestled on the coast of County Durham in the United Kingdom, not far from where I live, Seaham Beach is renowned for its multi-colored sea glass. Its abundance is thanks to a nearby Victorian-era glass factory that disposed of the waste glass of 20,000 bottles made daily into the sea. The Londonderry Bottle Company had six glasshouses at Seaham, the largest glass bottle works in the UK.
I’ve been to Seaham Beach, and I have a pot of sea glass waiting to be made into something special. This is where I’ve found the rarest colors: coral pinks, sunny yellows, and cobalt blues, but best of all, lots of multi-colored glass and marbles. The best way to get to the beach is to park at the “Seaham Parking” lot (satnav: SR7 7WE) and walk down the steps to the northern part of the beach.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider strolling along the Durham Coastal Path, which offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and opportunities for beautiful nature photography. History buffs should not miss Seaham Hall, an 18th-century Georgian mansion where Lord Byron, the famous poet, once lived. It’s now a luxurious spa hotel, perfect for unwinding. You can also go the budget-friendly approach while visiting this English beach, and just enjoy the beach for free!
Hanapepe Beach, Hawaii
Hanapepe Beach is a hidden gem for sea glass collectors. It is located on the island of Kauai, known as the “Garden Island” of Hawaii. This beach is not as well-known as other popular beaches like Poipu or Hanalei Bay. However, due to its location near an old sugar cane processing plant, it has a plethora of sea glass in various shades and sizes. Despite being off the beaten path, it’s worth the trip for the incredible views and unique treasures you can find.
When visiting Hanapepe Beach, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby town called Hanapepe. It’s known for its charming art galleries, local shops selling handmade goods, and the Swinging Bridge, built in the early 1900s. Hanapepe Valley Lookout is just a short drive away, offering a panoramic view of lush landscapes. It’s the perfect spot for taking in the essence of Kauai’s natural beauty.
Fort Bragg, California
Fort Bragg was once a disposal site for glass waste, and it has now transformed into a sparkling sea glass wonderland. One of the best beaches to visit in California, local regulations have been implemented to prevent the removal of sea glass and ensure future generations can enjoy the beach’s unique beauty.
The history of Fort Bragg and its transformation into a sea glass paradise is quite fascinating. The area once had several glass factories, which would dump their waste into the ocean. Over time, the tides and waves polished the broken pieces of glass, turning them into smooth, colorful gems.
Complete your visit at the famous sea glass beach, exploring the Point Cabrillo Light Station, where you can walk the scenic trails, tour the restored lighthouse, and even spot whales during migration seasons. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is a must-visit for those who appreciate breathtaking scenery. It offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean amidst vibrant flowers and native plants. A ride on the historic Skunk Train provides a nostalgic journey through the majestic redwoods, allowing visitors to soak in the scenic landscapes from vintage rail cars.
Davenport Beach, California
South of San Francisco, Davenport Beach’s cliffs and coves are ripe with sea glass, especially after a storm. The locals call this beach Shark’s Tooth Beach and Shark Fin Cove. Davenport Beach’s abundance of sea glass has a fascinating history. In the mid-20th century, the beach was used as a dumping ground for various types of waste, including glass bottles and other glass materials.
You will find unique sea glass recognizable for its multi-colored patterns, the remnants of a local art glass studio. Over time, the relentless waves and natural elements broke down the glass into smooth, colorful pieces that now adorn the shore.
The nearby Año Nuevo State Park is a must-see. It is famous for its elephant seal rookery, which provides a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Meanwhile, the Davenport Roadhouse Restaurant and Inn are perfect for those looking to savor local cuisine while soaking in coastal views. As the sun sets, the breathtaking vistas from Davenport Cliffs make for an ideal spot to witness nature’s evening display in all its glory.
Grant Park Beach, Wisconsin
Overlooking Lake Michigan, this lesser-known beach offers various hues of sea glass shaped by the freshwater tides. Collectors are encouraged to adhere to the “collect but conserve” guideline, a testament to the community’s respect for nature. Take a pitstop at the Grant Park Beach Pavilion. This historic pavilion offers a cozy space to relax, enjoy a meal, or marvel at the lake’s serene beauty.
Explore the scenic Oak Leaf or Seven Bridges Trail, which meanders through the park and offers picturesque views of Lake Michigan. The nearby South Milwaukee Yacht Club also offers sailing lessons and boat rentals. For history buffs, Mill Pond Village is a fascinating history museum showcasing life in a 19th-century Wisconsin settlement.
Ireland Island Beach, Bermuda
This exotic location is known for its pink sand beaches and wealth of sea glass, colored by a history of shipwrecks and discarded bottles. Bermuda imposes strict environmental laws to ensure the beach remains a sustainable treasure trove. The beach is relatively small, but the crystal-clear waters and rock formations make it a must-visit for any sea glass enthusiast.
Take a break from searching for sea glass by exploring one of Bermuda’s many hiking trails, such as the Bermuda Railway Trail, which follows an abandoned rail line and offers breathtaking ocean views. Rent a bike and ride through Somerset Village, where you can also find local shops selling handmade sea glass jewelry.
For those seeking adventure, take a dip in Horseshoe Bay, one of Bermuda’s most iconic beaches, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or swimming. End your day with a delectable seafood dinner at The Swizzle Inn, a popular spot known for its famous rum swizzle cocktail.
Steklyashka Beach, Russia
Located on Ussuri Bay, this beach is made up of millions of colorful glass pebbles. They are the remnants of an old Soviet glass factory that dumped their waste into the ocean decades ago. Today, the sea glass has been smoothed by the waves and mixed with colorful shells, creating a one-of-a-kind mosaic beach.
Aside from collecting these vibrant treasures, visitors can also enjoy swimming in the calm waters or taking a boat tour to explore nearby caves and rock formations. For history lovers, take a trip to Vladivostok, just a short drive away, known for its rich naval history and delicious seafood cuisine.
Aside from searching for sea glass, Steklyashka Beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching and has over 170 bird species in the area. Take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and spot unique wildlife like seals and dolphins. Try local delicacies such as borsch (beet soup) and pelmeni (dumplings) before heading back to the beach for another day of sea glass hunting.
Headlands Beach, Mentor, Ohio
Headlands Beach in Mentor, Ohio, is an expansive stretch of Lake Erie shoreline providing ample opportunities to discover beautiful, naturally tumbled glass treasures. As you stroll along the sandy beach, keep your eyes peeled for glimmers of blue, green, and amber glass nestled among the pebbles and shells. The tranquil ambiance of the lake, combined with the thrill of finding unique sea glass pieces, makes this one of my top beaches in the entire United States. This is where the largest piece of sea glass on record was discovered. Maybe you’ll find the next record-breaker!
Take a break from your beachcombing to enjoy a picnic with stunning waterfront views, or venture into the adjacent state park for a leisurely hike through scenic trails. Rent a kayak or canoe from one of the many local outfitters and spend the day exploring hidden coves and serene inlets. Lake Erie offers a memorable and engaging experience for all ages.
Bar Harbor Beach, Maine
Famed for its rugged coastlines and lighthouses, Bar Harbor also hosts hidden pockets of sea glass beaches. Head to Sand Beach in Acadia National Park for a scenic view of the pink granite cliffs and a chance to find unique pieces of sea glass. The beach is also known for its large boulders that create natural tide pools, perfect for spotting small marine life.
After a day at the beach, explore the charming town of Bar Harbor with its quaint shops, delicious seafood restaurants, and historic bed and breakfasts. Don’t forget to try local lobster rolls or clam chowder made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding waters. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided sea kayak tour around the nearby islands and get an up-close look at the beautiful coastline.
Glass Beach, Okinawa, Japan
Shimmering like gemstones, Okinawa’s Glass Beach is a stunning spectacle. Take a peaceful walk along the shore and marvel at the colorful array of sea glass pebbles formed over decades from broken bottles and pottery. This beach is famous for “bonfire sea glass,” where two colors have been fused during a bonfire on the beach or unused glass fused at the source.
Aside from its unique beach, Okinawa offers a rich cultural experience with its mix of Japanese and indigenous Ryukyuan traditions. Visit historic sites like Shuri Castle or participate in traditional ceremonies like tea ceremonies or karate demonstrations. And don’t forget to try local delicacies like goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon) or soki soba (pork rib noodles) while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.
Spectacle Island Beach, Boston Harbor
Once a dumping ground, Spectacle Island has been rehabilitated into a recreational space with hidden sea glass treasures along its shores. Famed for its spectacle shape, it was once a city landfill. But after a significant cleanup effort, it now boasts beautiful beaches and stunning views of Boston’s skyline. Now, you can find loads of pretty polished glass. Locals say the best place for sea glass is the section next to the visitor’s center.
Aside from its natural beauty, Spectacle Island also offers educational opportunities. Its visitor center teaches about the island’s history and restoration efforts. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some rare wildlife, such as peregrine falcons or harbor seals, during your visit.
Deadman’s Bay, British Virgin Islands
The clear turquoise waters of Deadman’s Bay are located on Peter Island in the British Virgin Islands, and this secluded beach offers a peaceful retreat for sea glass collectors. But don’t let the name fool you. There’s nothing eerie about this paradise. The beach got its name from an old pirate legend that claims a group of pirates were stranded and left to die on the island, giving it its morbid moniker. However, visitors can now enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing while looking for colorful sea glass treasures.
Aside from collecting sea glass, Deadman’s Bay is known for its luxurious resorts and restaurants offering delicious Caribbean cuisine. A must-visit spot is The Willy T, a floating bar and restaurant in The Bight off Norman Island, just a short boat ride away. Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious seafood, it’s a perfect place to relax and soak in the Caribbean vibes.
Another nearby treasure is The Baths on Virgin Gorda, a geological wonder featuring massive granite boulders that create picturesque tidal pools, tunnels, and caves. This natural labyrinth is perfect for a day of exploration, swimming, and snorkeling.
Glass Beach, Port Townsend, Washington
With a history of glass disposal that dates back decades, this beach offers a colorful array of sea glass. Although the Glass Beach begins at McCurdy Point, the only public access is from North Beach Park. From there, it’s a three-mile hike. Although it’s a simple trek, you must know the tide times. The beach stretches 1.5 miles along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and it’s the perfect spot for a beachcombing adventure with friends or family. The abundance of sea glass is the result of garbage trucks backing up on the cliff’s edge and dumping their trash.
Beyond its famous sea glass beach, you can immerse yourself in the rich maritime history at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the Northwest Maritime Center. If you’re a fan of Victorian architecture, a stroll through the historic downtown area is a must, with beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fort Worden State Park provides breathtaking hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and scenic picnic spots.
ABC Islands, Caribbean
The ABC Islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao- offer a unique blend of Caribbean charm and Dutch influence. Each island boasts its own character and attractions, and each one is fantastic for sea glass hunting. The constant trade winds carry debris from the ocean and deposit it on the shores, and in some places, there is more sea glass than pebbles and rock!
Captain Ky, The Sea Glass Guy, dedicates his life to traveling the world and discovering new sea glass beaches. If you love sea glass, you have to follow him. I’ve spent countless hours watching his videos, and he auctions some of his best finds.
Aruba is known for its vibrant nightlife, world-renowned beaches, and the famous Divi-Divi trees that bend toward the trade winds. Bonaire is a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with its crystal clear waters that teem with marine life. And Curacao is home to colorful pastel houses lining the streets of Willemstad’s historic downtown area.
Cleethorpes, England
Cleethorpes, a charming seaside town in Lincolnshire, England, is an unexpected gem for sea glass enthusiasts. And it happens to be my hometown, so I might be slightly biased. The beaches, shaped by the gentle tides of the Humber Estuary, often hide beautiful pieces of sea glass within their sands. Over the years, I’ve spent countless serene mornings combing the shoreline and have found some incredible pieces of sea glass. The thrill of discovering a smooth, colorful shard never fades, and each piece holds a mystery of its own.
There’s so much to do in this underrated coastal town. Cleethorpes’ Coast Light Railway is a charming miniature railway that is a joy for all ages. It runs along the coastline, offering stunning views as it steams through the town. Head to Cleethorpes Pier and find the world’s largest fish and chips restaurant, Papas, and enjoy delicious afternoon tea while gazing out at the sea. Sea View Street is lined with independent shops, boutiques, and eateries, and you can always find beautiful local sea glass jewelry on sale.
