Glass Beach

Glass Beach which includes rugged coastline
Glass Beach showing a pebble beach
Glass Beach featuring a pebble beach
North Coast California
Glass Beach featuring rocky coastline and general coastal views


Comb the beach for sea glass gems and artificial rubies in this former trash site that has become a bay of colours.

Glass Beach is a fascinating site that has been naturally transformed from a century-old trash site into a multicolored treasure chest. Over the years, the sea’s waves churning against the sands have smoothed the edges of car batteries, bottles and cans, turning them into a rainbow of translucent colours. Capture photos of this extraordinary beach on the Pacific Ocean.

Choose your favourite colours among the ruby reds and bright blues. Inspect these fascinating gems, before leaving them on the beach for others to discover. Consider the origins of the various stones. Sapphire gems come from apothecary bottles, while the ruby reds are likely from pre-1967 tail lights.

Glass Beach consists of three individual bays that were all used as trash sites for decades. Climb to the top of the cliffs around the northernmost beach and enjoy a picnic with your family. Appreciate the panoramic views of the ocean, with its many rocks and tiny islands that rise above the foamy water.

Stroll along this multicolored beach with your family and friends. Feel the cool sensation of the waves on your feet on a warm day. Spot the small yellow endangered Menzies’ wallflower that grows here.

Note that the three dump sites operated from 1906 until 1967. Over the years, programmes were put in place to undo the environmental damage and much of the metal and other non-biodegradable items were sold as scrap. The force of the waves broke down the remaining pottery and glass into small jewels.

Glass Beach overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the northwestern corner of Fort Bragg. It is just south of Pudding Creek and stands at the end of the Glass Beach Trail that runs from the town centre. Leave your car in the parking lot at the intersection between the trail and the nearest road. The beach is open at all times and is free to enter.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.

Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.

2 out of 5
763 N Main St, Fort Bragg, CA
Studio 9 Fort Bragg, LLC.
Harbor Lite Lodge

Harbor Lite Lodge

2.5 out of 5
120 N Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg, CA
Harbor Lite Lodge
Seabird Lodge

Seabird Lodge

3.5 out of 5
191 South Street, Fort Bragg, CA
Seabird Lodge
The Beach House Inn

The Beach House Inn

2.5 out of 5
100 Pudding Creek Rd, Fort Bragg, CA
The Beach House Inn
Beachcomber Motel Fort Bragg

Beachcomber Motel Fort Bragg

2.5 out of 5
1111 N. Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA
Beachcomber Motel Fort Bragg
Oceanside Inn & Suites, a Days Inn by Wyndham

Oceanside Inn & Suites, a Days Inn by Wyndham

2.5 out of 5
820 N Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA
Oceanside Inn & Suites, a Days Inn by Wyndham
Surf & Sand Lodge

Surf & Sand Lodge

2.5 out of 5
1131 N Main St, Fort Bragg, CA
Surf & Sand Lodge
Best Western Vista Manor Lodge

Best Western Vista Manor Lodge

2.5 out of 5
1100 N Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA
Best Western Vista Manor Lodge
Super 8 by Wyndham Fort Bragg

Super 8 by Wyndham Fort Bragg

2 out of 5
888 S Main St, Fort Bragg, CA
Super 8 by Wyndham Fort Bragg
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Glass Beach

At Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and partake in exciting activities like whale watching. This unique beach, known for its colourful sea glass, offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and exploration. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of the area while taking in the breathtaking coastal views.

Shopping

In Fort Bragg, explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Mendocino Village, around 6.2km away, where charming boutiques and artisan shops await, offering everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies.

Recreation

The C.V. Starr Community Center, a mile from Glass Beach, offers a variety of wellness and relaxation activities in a welcoming environment. For a tranquil outdoor experience, the Mendocino Woodlands Outdoor Center, located 6.8km away, provides beautiful settings for rejuvenation. Enjoy soothing treatments at Mendocino Coast Massage, 14.3km distant.

Adventure

At Glass Beach, explore the vibrant shoreline adorned with colourful sea glass. Enjoy kayaking along the rugged coastline or embark on a guided tide pooling adventure to discover marine life. Capture stunning sunsets while beachcombing for unique treasures along the scenic landscape.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Glass Beach is enchanting, with stunning ocean views. Enjoy a laid-back evening at the nearby North Coast Brewing Company for craft beers, or indulge in fresh seafood at the Harbour View Restaurant. For a lively atmosphere, visit the local pubs where live music often fills the air.

Find the best attractions near Glass Beach

Glass Beach in Fort Bragg offers an array of attractions, including its renowned beach, historic rail, and a charming botanical garden. Visitors seeking outdoor activities, family fun, and cultural experiences will find plenty to explore. Don't miss the famous glass beach, located just a short distance away, and be sure to visit the intriguing sea glass museum nearby for a unique experience.

  • Skunk Train: Experience a nostalgic journey aboard the Skunk Train, a historic rail that offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. The scenic ride through ancient redwoods and along the rugged coastline immerses you in the area's vibrant culture.
  • MacKerricher State Park: An outdoor adventurer's paradise, MacKerricher State Park boasts stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife watching. Enjoy a day of exploration amidst beautiful scenery and invigorating fresh air.
  • Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the enchanting Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, where vibrant flora blooms in a romantic setting. This family-friendly destination provides a peaceful escape while showcasing the beauty of California's coastal plants.

Best time to go to Glass Beach

The best time to visit Glass Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Glass Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Glass Beach falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
April51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
May54.9°F (12.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.2°F (15.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July61.3°F (16.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High
August61.9°F (16.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
October58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainSunnyLowAverage
November53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Glass Beach

To save money on your visit to Glass Beach, plan your trip between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Consider staying on a Tuesday for the best rates, and avoid Saturdays which are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to set your budget and sort results from lowest to highest. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings, and explore options like cheap hotel deals and fort bragg hotel deals to maximise your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Glass Beach are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Glass Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Glass Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your choices by setting your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Glass Beach with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.