My boyfriend is a sea glass KING and he’s always taking me out to adventure along the coastline! We’ve spent hours wandering all the coves in Laguna Beach. We have a humongous glass fishbowl FILLED with sea glass over the years and it makes quite the conversation piece. I figured we have enough that we can share some tips for others!
TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR OWN SEA GLASS:
Check the tides. Although you can explore any time, you’ll have better luck beach combing during low tide. Before heading out, check TidesChart.com.
Wear sunscreen. You might plan on a quick outing but I’ll tell you from experience, you can get carried away and end up outside longer than you think! And being in close proximity to water means the rays are amplified. Just put on the sunscreen!
Wear a hat. I find that sunglasses actually impede my ability to spot sea glass among other pebbles and sand. Wearing a hat is a great option to protect your eyes but still be able to see clearly.
Bring a fanny pack. You’ll want something to keep your finds safe while you wander around. A fanny pack or small back pack will also keep your hands free.
Bring a trash bag. Sadly, you will find trash while exploring. It doesn’t take much extra effort to carry a trash bag and pick up the trash you encounter. No pointing fingers, no blaming. Just be a nice human and do it for Mother Nature’s sake.
Find a rocky or pebbly beach. Rather than a smooth and sandy beach, sea glass tends to collect at the rocky and pebbly areas! Sometimes I like to rake my hand or foot through the pebbles. Other times I just watch closely as the waves go out. Be ready to snatch quickly!
Have patience. We have never come home empty handed when we go out sea glass hunting. You WILL find something as long as you’re patient and keep at it!
Know when to throw it back. If the glass has any sharp or rough edges, it’s not ready and you can toss it into the water for it to continue tumbling. Good sea glass will be nicely frosted and smooth all around.
Be respectful. Laguna Beach is a Marine Protected Area which means you are not allowed to take shells, rocks, or any living creatures.
Watch my Instagram reel below for some of our cool finds!
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