Florida Beach Glass Guide

UPDATED: February 2024. I love sea glass and all the colors you can find in beach glass. I have been asked several times, where could one find the Best Beaches To Find Sea Glass In Florida so I thought it was time to do some research and find out.

If you’re a sea glass enthusiast looking for the best beaches in Florida to find these beautiful treasures, you’re in luck. I’ve done the research for you and below is a list of the top sea glass beaches in the Sunshine State.

Uncovering the Hidden Gems: The Best Beaches in Florida to Find Sea Glass

I love sea glass collecting so much, I even created a pair of Sea Glass leggings. Check them out in my Etsy shop here: Sea Glass Leggings Yes, I’m obsessed but I get so many compliments on them!

If you’re a beach lover with a penchant for treasures washed ashore like I am, then Florida’s hidden gems – sea glass beaches – are an absolute must-visit.

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These beautiful shards of glass, smoothed and weathered by the waves, create a kaleidoscope of colors that dazzle each time you move it.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the best beaches in Florida where you can find your sea glass treasures.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious explorer, these beaches offer a unique opportunity to not only connect with nature but discover the rare sea glass pieces.

From the serene shores of Sanibel Island to the secluded coves of Cape Canaveral, we’ll reveal the best spots for uncovering these gleaming treasures. I was lucky and able to find several pieces of sea glass in white, blue and green while in the Dry Tortugas.

You’ll learn about the history of sea glass, the best times to go, and the techniques for finding the most valuable pieces. Get ready to embark on a beachcomber’s dream adventure as we bring you the ultimate guide to Florida’s hidden sea glass gems.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, these beaches offer a great chance to find some unique and colorful pieces of sea glass.

There is sea glass or should I say pieces of sea glass on many Florida beaches but not all of them.

As I mentioned above, I was very shocked while snorkeling at Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas National Park, to find white, green and blue sea glass on the beach as those islands are 70 miles away from Key West.

Below are some of the best places where you may find that elusive shiny piece of glass. Don’t have time to read the whole article now? You can click any link below to jump to that section.

At the bottom of this article there are additional links to help you plan your Florida Vacation.

What Makes Florida Beaches a Great Place to Find Sea Glass

Florida’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches that provide the perfect conditions for sea glass to form. The combination of warm ocean currents, sandy shores, and a history of coastal settlements make these beaches a treasure trove for sea glass enthusiasts.

The abundance of sea glass in Florida can be attributed to its rich maritime history. Over the years, various ships and vessels have sailed along its coast, leaving behind fragments of glass that have been transformed into beautiful gems by the relentless action of the waves.

Additionally, the state’s proximity to the Gulf Stream, a powerful ocean current, ensures a steady supply of glass fragments from both local and distant sources.

The History and Origin of Sea Glass

Sea glass, also known as beach glass or mermaid’s tears, has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Initially, glass items discarded into the ocean, such as bottles, jars, and glassware, were broken down into fragments by the relentless motion of the waves.

Over time, as these fragments were tossed and tumbled by the sea, their sharp edges were smoothed, and their surfaces became frosted and polished.

The origin of sea glass can be traced back to various sources, including shipwrecks, coastal factories, and even historical events such as World War II. Each piece of sea glass tells a unique story, and its color and shape can provide clues about its origin.

From the vibrant greens and blues of soda bottles to the rare reds and oranges of vintage glassware, sea glass comes in a dazzling array of colors that captivates collectors from around the world.

How is Sea Glass Made?

If you have ever picked up a piece of sea glass, you will notice the rounded edges. Sea glass is created when pieces of glass from glass bottles or even a glass jar are naturally tumbled and weathered by sea waves, currents, and sand. 

This process of tumbling removes sharp edges from the glass and gives it a frosted, organic look. It’s believed that sea glass originates from discarded bottles, jars, and other artifacts that have been broken apart over time by sea elements. 

The sea glass is often found by beachcombers on beaches and usually comes in shades of sea green, white, brown, and yellow. 

Sea glass collectors have also found much more rare colors such as cobalt blue, deep sea green, amber-black, and even mulberry red. These unique colors are often sought after by sea glass collectors as they are much harder to find.

How to Identify Different Types of Sea Glass

As an aspiring sea glass collector, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types of sea glass and their characteristics. By understanding the various colors, shapes, and rarity of sea glass, you can enhance your beachcombing experience and increase your chances of finding valuable pieces.

Sea glass is typically classified into three categories based on its color: common, uncommon, and rare. Common sea glass includes shades of white, brown, and green, and it’s the most frequently found type.

Uncommon sea glass encompasses colors such as blue, aqua, and lavender, which are less common but still relatively abundant. Rare sea glass, on the other hand, includes colors like red, orange, and yellow, which are considered exceptionally rare and highly sought-after by collectors.

Is It Legal to Take Sea Glass from The Beach?

On the beach, sea glass is okay to pick up and take home. Sea Glass in the water or in State Parks, however, may not be legal. Be sure to check prior.

Sea glass is a beautiful reminder of our connection with the sea and can be collected to use for jewelry or other decorative pieces. A beautiful symbol of nature’s beauty, strength, and power. These traits we all strive for.

​Do You Need Special Equipment To Search For Sea Glass?

No, but you can bring along a small rake or even a cat box shovel that allows the sand to fall through while holding the larger items in the scoop to check for sea glass. Walk slowly as you search while enjoying the view. 

Best Places to find sea glass? Best time To Find Sea Glass?

The best time to search for sea glass is roughly an hour before or after low tide versus high tide. A great place to find genuine sea glass is either Fort Bragg Beach in California or Glass Beach in Kauai, Hawaii.

Glass Beach at MacKerricher State Park in California is one of three beaches in Fort Bragg that were official dumpsites in the 1940s. Basically, the beach is made up of sea glass, not sand.

Some colors of sea glass are rarer than others. You may easily find green or white but sea glass that is orange, turquoise, red, and yellow are not so easy to find. If you find one of these colors, you truly have found treasure.

But what about Florida? Can sea glass be found on Florida’s beaches? Yes, you can.

Which Florida Beach Has Sea Glass? Can sea glass be found in Florida?

Absolutely! Sea glass is often found on Florida’s beaches from the Florida Keys to the Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico.

There are almost 2,000 miles of coastline and over 650 beaches in Florida to explore. Some of the best beaches for sea glass collectors are right here in the Sunshine State.

You will want to skip the soft, white sandy beaches and choose beaches that have more pebbles and rocks. Low tide is the best time to search and be sure to look where the waves break.

When choosing which beach to start your sea glass search, consider how close they are to very populated areas/cities. Something you probably have not been told very often is to look for landfills near beaches.

Also, be aware that you cannot take sea glass from any Florida State Park or US National Parks. Be sure to also stay off the sand dunes while you are searching.

The sand dunes protect the local ecosystems in times of storm surges and high waves. I cannot count how many times I have seen people on sand dunes where there are clearly marked signs advising stay off.

These beaches are where you will have the most luck finding these rare finds are below. I have separated them by East Coast and West Coast.

Best Beaches in Florida for Finding Sea Glass

The top 3 beaches to find Sea Glass in Florida are:

1. Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach, nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This idyllic beach is also a hidden gem for sea glass enthusiasts.

With its gentle waves and peaceful ambiance, Siesta Key Beach offers the perfect conditions for sea glass to wash ashore. Spend a relaxing day beachcombing along the shoreline, and you’re likely to stumble upon a treasure trove of sea glass in various colors and sizes.

2. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, located off the southwest coast of Florida, is a paradise for nature lovers and collectors alike. This barrier island is famous for its abundance of seashells, and it’s also home to some of the best sea glass beaches in the state.

The unique shape of the island creates a natural gathering point for sea glass, making it a prime spot for collectors to find an array of colors and shapes. Don’t forget to explore the secluded beaches on the island’s eastern side, where you’ll discover hidden coves filled with sea glass treasures.

3. Captiva Island

Connected to Sanibel Island by a bridge, Captiva Island offers another opportunity to uncover sea glass treasures. This small, laid-back island boasts pristine beaches that are less crowded than its neighboring counterparts.

Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, and you’ll be rewarded with an assortment of sea glass pieces, from delicate pastels to vibrant jewel tones. Captiva Island’s tranquil atmosphere and abundant sea glass make it a must-visit destination for any collector.

There are a few more beaches that you may find sea glass on. They are:

Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach is located on the Panhandle in the northwest coast of Florida. It is also very well known for its sea-glass abundance.

The reason the area is famous for its sea glass jetties is because of huge collections of sea glass that have accumulated here over time from the waves and strong currents. 

Sea glass hunters come to Navarre Beach in search of vibrant-colored sea glass including brownish-green, orange, yellow, and red pieces. 

Navarre Beach is one of the best Florida beaches to search for sea glass due to the high wave activity from high winds. 

Navarre Beach is also known for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters, occasionally sea foam green or turquoise, perfect for beach vacations.

Best beach hotels in Navarre Beach: Navarre Beach Hotels

Sarasota

Nokomis Beach and Casey Key, which is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach are popular spots for beach combing and especially sea glass. Mainly found is brown glass, most likely from beer bottles, but you can get lucky and find aqua blue, green, and clear sea glass.

Caspersen Beach also in Sarasota Couty is another great option for searching for sea glass. This is a less crowded beach so your chances of finding sea glass as well as sea shells and sharks teeth are greater.

Best beach hotels in Sarasota: Sarasota Beach Hotels

Venice Beach

Located on the west coast of Florida near Sarasota, is Venice Beach. One of the great beaches on the west coast, this is also another great sea-glass hunting spot.

The beach’s white sand and waves attract sea glass hunters from around the world. Sea glass colors here range from blues, forest greens, browns, and purples among other colors. 

Beautiful shells as well as sea glass are often found on this beach after a weather event such as the significant impact of a hurricane. 

A great time to search is after a storm, or strong winds that churn up the surf. This brings the sea glass to the surface making it easier to find. 

Best beachfront hotels: Venice Beach Florida Hotels

Fort De Sota Beach

Fort De Soto Beach is probably the best seaglass beach in Florida with its miles of coastline. Located on the Gulf Coast, this beach is known for its large concentration of sea glass and its clear, calm waters.

Collectors report a variety of colors of sea glass including pink, green, blue, and brown. Due to its popularity among sea-glass collectors, Fort De Soto Beach also offers special events such as sea-glass treasure hunts and beach glass workshops to learn about identifying sea-glass finds and other sea gems.

Vacation Rentals On The Beach: Fort De Soto Beach Vacation Rentals

Bowman’s Beach

Bowman’s Beach is located on Sanibel Island and is one of the best sea-glass hunting spots in Florida. This beach did take a direct hit from Hurricane Ian.

It is known for its abundance of sea glass, seashells, and sand dollars. Bowman’s Beach is also a great spot for sea-glass art lovers and jewelry designers to collect pieces to create beautiful home decor or jewelry pieces. 

Best hotels near Bowman’s Beach: Bowman’s Beach Hotels

Jacksonville Beach

One of the most famous Florida beaches for shark teeth is Jacksonville Beach. But did you know these beaches are also fantastic for finding blue, white, and green sea glass?

Several of the beaches in this area as well as nearby beaches of St. Augustine are good places to search. I know this from personal experience but you need to really search. 

Blue or green sea glass pieces are beautiful, and you can find those colors here but like I mentioned, you need to be patient and look. Hanna Park also in Jacksonville is another area beach where you may find sea glass on a good day. 

The best place to look in Jacksonville is the stretch from Jacksonville to Cinnamon Beach. Unfortunately, this is a private beach but I understand from a fellow beachcomber that there is public access near the resort. I am working to verify that myself and will update this article. 

The good news? If this is in fact a mainly private beach that you can access, you may have great luck finding sea glass. 

Tip: Try to book a vacation home right on the beach. This way you can walk out right after low tide and start your search. Check here: Jacksonville Beach Vacation Rental Homes

This area of the Florida coastline is known for many different types of sea glass including the easy-to-find colors of white, blue, and green. 

When you are in this area, be sure to stop at Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. In addition to shark teeth near Fort Clinch, keep your eyes scanning for multicolored pieces of glass.

St. Augustine

South of Jacksonville, St. Augustine is the perfect place for history buffs and beach lovers alike. This beach is a popular location for many reasons.

The public beaches are gorgeous, but you will need to search high and low for that beautiful lime green sea glass or washed-up glass from a Coca-Cola bottle. If you are truly looking for a beach where you can find sea glass, the west coast beaches above would probably be better options.

Be sure to take time to explore the historical site of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument as well as the many other attractions you will only find in St. Augustine.

This is a great location for a vacation. The top 10 vacation rentals are here: St. Augustine best vacation rentals.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach may be known for the race track but some of my best finds have been on the beach including the rare piece of sea glass.

Honestly? You’ll have better chances at finding sea glass treasure at one of the other East Coast beaches but don’t let that stop you from looking in Daytona or New Smyrna Beaches.

Check here for current availability and pricing: Daytona Beach Hotels

Indian River Lagoon

Indian River Lagoon is a shallow-water estuary, located on the Space Coast of Florida. It covers about 156 miles from Ponce de Leon Inlet (near New Smyrna Beach) to Jupiter Inlet.

This is a fantastic area to enjoy bioluminescent kayaking that occurs during the months between June to September. After a night of kayaking, it’s time to explore the area.

Indian River Lagoon itself is shallow and brackish water. Brackish water is a mix of salt and fresh water.

Folks combing the beaches in this area have found blue sea glass but it is not as common as it used to be. This is good though because it means this area has been cleaned up over the years.

Check here for current availability and pricing: Best Indian River Lagoon Vacation Rentals

Jupiter Island

Jupiter Island, a barrier island located on the east coast of South Florida, features miles of shoreline with strong surf and plenty of sand. These things make it the perfect environment for sea glass collecting.

Blowing Rocks Preserve is a fantastic place to stop to explore especially at high tide when the waves blow through the rocks. At this stop, you cannot take anything off the beach including the shells and sand dollars. Also be sure you are not picking up live shells, sand dollars, or any other marine life.

Located near Jupiter, Coral Cove Park in the town of Tequesta, is another beach to stop at when in this area. It is also one you can search for sea glass. 

Collectors love this beach because it generally has more colored sea glass than other areas in the state. It is an excellent location to search as it is near a former waste disposal site. 

Or to put it bluntly, garbage dumps. The wide variety of colors makes Jupiter Island one of the most popular sea glass collecting spots in the state including blue and forest green colors.

Top hotels to stay in to collect sea glass on Jupiter Island: Jupiter Island Hotels

Hutchinson Island

Hutchinson Island is a sea-glass hotspot in Florida and know by serious collectors. 

This island is located on the east coast of South Florida, off the coast of St. Lucie County.

Collectors love this beach for different colors of sea glass. When sea glass hunting, you may find green, orange, and even yellow sea glass on this pretty beach. Top hotels on the beach: Hutchinson Island Beach Hotels

Jensen Beach

Jensen Beach is also a sea-glass hunting hot spot in Florida. The sea glass found here is mostly green, white, and brown sea glass, but you may find other colors such as red and orange.

Sea glass hunters come from all over the world to look for sea glass at this beach for many reasons. The main two reasons though are you can usually find a lot of sea glass on this beach as well as rare as well as most common colors.

Top Vacation Rentals On The Beach: Jensen Beach Vacation Rentals

Tips for Finding Sea Glass on Florida Beaches

While finding sea glass can be an exhilarating experience, it’s essential to approach beachcombing with patience and respect for the environment. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your sea glass hunting adventures:

1. Timing is Key

The best time to search for sea glass is during low tide or after a storm. During these times, the waves retreat, revealing a larger expanse of the beach and exposing more sea glass. Additionally, storms can churn up the ocean, bringing new treasures ashore.

2. Look in the Right Places

Focus your search in areas where the waves break close to the shoreline. Sea glass tends to accumulate in these areas, as the waves deposit it while pulling back into the ocean. Also, keep an eye out for natural barriers, such as rocks or jetties, which can trap and concentrate sea glass.

3. Bring the Right Tools

A sturdy pair of gloves is essential when handling sea glass, as some pieces may still have sharp edges. A mesh bag or a bucket can be used to collect your finds, allowing sand and water to drain away.

A small magnifying glass can also come in handy for examining the finer details of your sea glass treasures.

Beachcombing Etiquette and Responsible Collecting Practices

As sea glass becomes increasingly popular, it’s crucial to practice responsible collecting to ensure the preservation of these precious treasures. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Leave No Trace

When beachcombing, take only photographs and leave only footprints. Avoid removing large quantities of sea glass from the beach, as this disrupts the natural ecosystem and diminishes the experience for future collectors.

2. Respect Wildlife and Marine Life

Be mindful of nesting birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife that may call the beach home. Avoid disturbing their habitats and be cautious when walking near dunes or vegetation.

3. Educate Others

Share your knowledge and passion for sea glass with others. By raising awareness about responsible collecting practices, you can help preserve these natural treasures for generations to come.

The fun activity of collecting sea glass as well as finding plenty of shells on the coast is something the whole family will enjoy. 

DIY Crafts and Projects Using Sea Glass

Once you’ve collected an assortment of sea glass, the creative possibilities are endless. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, here are some DIY projects to showcase your sea glass treasures:

1. Sea Glass Jewelry

Transform your sea glass finds into stunning jewelry pieces. From necklaces and bracelets to earrings and rings, sea glass can add a touch of coastal elegance to any accessory. Simply drill a hole in the sea glass, attach it to a chain or wire, and let your creativity shine.

2. Mosaic Art

Create a unique mosaic masterpiece using sea glass as your medium. Whether you’re decorating a picture frame, a mirror, or a tabletop, the vibrant colors and textures of sea glass will add a whimsical touch to your artwork.

3. Wind Chimes

Craft a soothing wind chime using sea glass and driftwood. String the sea glass pieces onto fishing line or sturdy thread, and attach them to the driftwood using small hooks or loops. Hang your wind chime in a sunny spot, and let the gentle breeze create a melodic symphony of sea glass.

A great idea is to use the larger pieces you find in your home as decor. Or make sea glass jewelry to wear.

Sea Glass Festivals and Events in Florida

For sea glass enthusiasts looking to connect with like-minded individuals and expand their collections, attending a sea glass festival or event is a must.

These gatherings offer a unique opportunity to learn from experts, buy and sell sea glass, and immerse yourself in the vibrant sea glass community. In Florida, several festivals and events celebrate the beauty of sea glass, including:

1. The Florida Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival

Hosted annually in Sarasota, this festival showcases the work of talented artists who incorporate sea glass into their creations. From jewelry and home decor to fine art and photography, this event is a mecca for sea glass enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

2. The Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival

Taking place in Melbourne, this festival brings together artists, collectors, and vendors from across the country. Browse through a wide selection of sea glass jewelry, artwork, and crafts, and discover new treasures to add to your collection.

In addition to the state of Florida, visit the states of New Jersey, Hawaii and California specifically Northern California when you are ready to expand your search beyond the miles of beach here in Florida. 

Be sure to let me know what you find. Happy Hunting! The links below will help you plan your Florida beach getaway: