In case you haven’t noticed on my Instagram, I’m just WILD about seaglass.
I’ve been beachcombing and collecting seaglass, whozits and whatzits galore since I could walk; but this past year, I’ve come to realize that many of you get just as excited about seaglass as I do!
Some of you admitted that having never beachcombed a day in your life—this summer you gave hunting for seaglass a try and now you’re hooked.
Which makes me so 👏🏻flipping 👏🏻excited 👏🏻
To celebrate the first-ever seaglass festival on Campobello Island this September and to answer many of the questions you have about seaglass, I felt it was time to share a few tips and tricks, as well as etiquette for proper seaglass hunting!
Grab your bucket!
WHERE TO FIND SEAGLASS
OK, let’s start with the most common question I get asked: where do I find seaglass? And does every beach have seaglass?
While there is no real rhyme or reason to what beaches are the best for seaglass—I found three pieces of red on a sandy beach NOT known for seaglass once—there are some common characteristics to look for when choosing which beaches to explore.
Rocky beachesare one of the BEST spots to find seaglass, especially in coves where tides can cause rocks and seaglass to get caught up. Because rocks help tumble the glass, you’re more likely to find frosted, perfectly tumbled pieces on rocky beaches.
Sandy beachesmay not always have tumbled glass, but you can still find beautifully weathered pieces. And don’t forget, tumbled glass from rocky beaches can totally end up on sandy beaches too. The ocean is pretty magical like that.
Etiquette Tip: While you may be tempted to ask a fellow seaglass hunter or beachcomber where they found their prized seaglass pieces, tread lightly.
Most seaglass lovers won’t reveal their top-secret beaches (especially if pieces are limited and rare at these beaches) but they’ll most likely be happy to share more popular seaglass beaches with you.
Instead of asking: “Where do get all of your seaglass?” or “Where did you find that rare piece of red seaglass?” try asking “Do you recommend any beaches for someone interested in seaglass?”
PLAN AROUND THE TIDES
While you can find seaglass regardless of whether it’s high or low tide, some beaches are only walkable at low tide. It also happens to be when the beach is most exposed, meaning more opportunity to spot some precious pieces.
Pro seaglass hunters know the best times to hit the beach is right at low tide, before anyone else has had a chance to walk the beach OR early in the morning before the beach gets crowded.
Etiquette Tip:While you might be tempted to closely follow someone who is seemingly having a lucky day, no one likes a creeper. There is plenty of seaglass for everyone, so keep a friendly distance from fellow beachcombers.
While it’s OK to be friendly, try not to strike up a long conversation with someone clearly on the hunt.
For me, looking for seaglass is my equivalent of meditation. While I’m happy to say hello, I’m the happiest keeping to myself with my head down to spot treasures.
DON’T TRESPASS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
I hate to say it, but some of the best seaglass locations are only accessible by private property.
While you may be tempted to try and access the beach through someone else’s property, be mindful that trespassing is just not cool.
Don’t be THAT person. You don’t want to upset the seaglass karma Gods, now do you?
Etiquette Tip:The same goes for blocking driveways or parking on private property to access beaches for beachcombing.
If you can’t find a place to park, reconsider your seaglass route.
DRESS FOR BEACHCOMBING
Walking beaches looking for seaglass can be a real workout. There’s a lot of bending and squatting involved and believe me when I say, your body will feel it the next day.
Make your experience more enjoyable by wearing clothing you’re comfortable in whether that be a pair of yoga pants or shorts with pockets for those extra special pieces of glass.
Remember that the sun will be on your back and neck at some point, so make sure to apply sunscreen or wear a hat or coverup to protect you from UV rays.
Lastly, remember that a coastal breeze may make a beach feel cooler than in-land, so having a hoodie or jacket on hand is never a bad idea.
Bonus Tip:A good fanny pack makes a great accessory for beachcombing and will keep your phone, keys, and precious pieces safe.
PLAN YOUR FOOTWEAR APPROPRIATELY
You may think walking on a beach means barefoot and sandy toes. Sometimes, that is the case, but for the best seaglass beaches, you’re probably going to be walking on rocky beaches or slippery stones.
Extra rocky beaches are a recipe for disaster and twisted ankles if you’re attempting to walk them barefoot or in flimsy flip flops!
I will always have a pair of slip-on sneakers and my Birkenstocks or flip flops in my SUV for impromptu seaglass trips. That way, I can make a game-time decision based on the beach terrain.
DON’T LEAVE TRASH BEHIND
I know, I know. You’re excited to find seaglass, but be a good mermaid and pick up some trash along the way. Especially any plastic rubber lobster bands or tags that sea creatures could potentially eat or choke on.
Also, keep the beaches safe for little beachcombers—pick up aluminum cans or rusty debris that could be stepped on. Did you find a piece of seaglass that needs a little more baking? If it’s sharp or could be dangerous, it’s better to just collect it as trash.
In addition to whatever you’re putting your seaglass in, bring along a bag or bucket for trash too! Cleaning our beaches is just good karma and those seaglass karma Gods I mentioned? They’ve got your back 😉
I LOVE hearing about your seaglass treasures! Tag me in your photos and videos as you hunt for seaglass or post your own #seaglasskisses selfie photo! 💙
To learn more about the 1st Campobello Island Seaglass Festival, click here.
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