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What you need to know about California’s Glass Beach before you go
California’s Glass Beach may not seem like a great place to walk barefoot, but it’s a one-of-a-kind beach you can’t experience anywhere else.
However, there are a few things you need to know if you want to get the most out of your trip to this amazing coastline.
Where is Glass Beach?
Glass Beach is located along the Northern California coast. The closest city is Fort Bragg, California.
The beach borders MacKerricher State Park. However, in 2002, the beach was incorporated into the park. It is one of the most famous glass beaches in the world.
About MacKerricher State Park
MacKerricher State Park is 2,299 acres and was formerly part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation and the site of a slash and haul operation.
The state opened the park in 1952 and continued to add land along Ten Mile Beach until 1977.
You’ll find a variety of habitats in the park, including beaches, dunes, headlands, bays, wetlands, tide pools, forests, and even a freshwater lake.
The park is a popular place for hiking and whale watching. At Lake Cleone you will find camping and fishing. You can easily enjoy the outdoors on the many trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
Read more: Glass Beach tops the list, but there are so many more surprisingly unique things to do in Fort Bragg!
Origin of Glass Beach in California
California’s Glass Beach gets its pristine shorelines from years of littering the shoreline.
Residents dumped their trash off the cliffs and into the ocean. This included glass, appliances, and even vehicles.
At the beginning of the 20th century, most people were not fully aware of the negative impact this would have on the environment.
The crashing waves would crush the glass and it would start to wash up on the shore. The California State Water Resources Control Board finally closed the spillway in 1967.
What you need to know before you go
If you’re planning a trip to Glass Beach, there are a few important things to know.
These things can ensure that you have a smooth trip and stay out of trouble while enjoying the beach.
Does it cost anything to visit Glass Beach?
There is no cost to visit California’s Glass Beach. However, the parking lot built in front of the park in 2017 is very small.
It only has two dozen parking spaces for guests to park in this popular tourist destination. So not only is it a fantastic place to visit, but it’s also very affordable.
When is the best time to look for sea glass?
For the best chance of seeing sea glass, go about an hour before or after low tide.
Also, you are more likely to see sea glass after a storm . Wait for the sun to catch the reflections of light from the glass.
Can I bring glass from Glass Beach in California?
Unfortunately, since Glass Beach is in the state park, it is illegal to bring glass home. Over the years thousands of visitors have walked the beaches and grabbed as much sea glass as possible.
As a result, the amount of sea glass on the beach has decreased considerably. Visitors are encouraged to take photos, but are not allowed to remove glass stones from the beach.
Are dogs allowed at Glass Beach?
Glass Beach is one of the most popular dog beaches in Fort Bragg.
However, dogs must be on a leash. Also, if you keep your dog on a leash, you can take it with you on the trails in the area.
Camping sites near Glass Beach in California
Bringing your RV and looking for a place to stay near Glass Beach, California?
We have some great suggestions :
Harbor Trailer Park
Address: 1021 S Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Rating: 4.3/5
Nightly Rate: $37 to $42
Distance from Glass Beach: 2.3 miles
This year-round RV park started in 1960 and has grown over the years and has undergone several major renovations. The park has 19 spaces with full connection and 11 with water and electricity.
While not all 30 locations have full hookups, you can enjoy beautiful ocean views from any of the locations. Anglers will enjoy the on-site fish cleaning station and boat trailer parking area.
All guests will enjoy free Wi-Fi, cable TV and outgoing mail service. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the best dining, shopping, and entertainment Fort Bragg has to offer.
Sportsman trailer park
Address: 32094 N Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Rating: 4.5/5
Nightly Rate: From $65
Distance from Glass Beach: 2.7 miles
Sportsman Trailer Park is located on the Noyo River in Fort Bragg, just 2.7 miles from Glass Beach in California.
Its location makes it easy to enjoy the sights and sounds of the harbor in a charming and intimate setting. The campground offers quick and easy access to fishing, crabbing, and beachcombing.
If you enjoy good food, you are within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in the city. Some of the guest-favorite amenities include hot showers in the bathhouse and free Wi-Fi throughout the park. And the park and nearby beach are pet friendly.
Dolphin Isle Marina and RV Park
Address: 32399 Cuenca St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Rating: 4.3/5
Nightly Rate: From $45-$50
Distance from Glass Beach: 4 miles
Dolphin Isle Marina and RV Park has 25 RV sites year-round and over 50 seasonally. Seasonal plots are available from March 1 to November 1. All their plots are fully connected to water, sewage and electricity.
In addition, the park offers basic cable TV and free Wi-Fi. And you can use the laundromat, coin-operated toilets and showers. Stay here for a short drive to Glass Beach.
Stop at California’s Unique Glass Beach
If you’re traveling through Northern California, a stop at this unique beach can make for a great day out. While you can’t take any of the glass home with you, you can take plenty of photos to appreciate it and show it off to your friends and family.
Glass Beach was created because humans have had a huge impact on the ecosystem. But we’re glad officials are doing everything they can to limit further environmental damage.
Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy this impressive beach!
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