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Unearthing Coastal Treasures: The Best Sea Glass Beaches in North Carolina

Explore the Hidden Gems and Glistening Shores for Unforgettable Family Adventures

There’s something captivating about the gentle rhythm of the waves, the salt-kissed breeze, and the feeling of sand between your toes. For families seeking a unique coastal experience, North Carolina’s beaches offer more than just sun and surf – they unveil the secret world of sea glass, waiting to be discovered by curious beachcombers of all ages.

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From the Outer Banks to the Crystal Coast, each beach in North Carolina brings something new and exciting to explore. When we lived in Jacksonville, North Carolina, some of our favorite family outings were to visit coastal areas across the state in search of sea shells and sea glass.

Here I wanted to share popular places to find sea glass in North Carolina, what is it, and tips on how to find it.

What is Sea Glass?

Sea glass, often referred to as “mermaid tears,” is the ocean’s treasure born from years of tumbling waves and the sands of time. What begins as discarded glass bottles, jars, and trinkets find its way into the sea, where the natural processes of erosion and weathering transform them into beautifully smooth, frosted gems.

Each piece of glass is a testament to Mother Nature’s artistry, carrying with it the history of its origins and the stories of voyages long past. Exploring the shores in search of these gems can be a fun and rewarding outdoor activity for families, allowing them to slow down and take in the beauty of their environment.

Hand holding sea glass found on Outer Banks Beaches
sea glass found on Outer Banks Beaches – Courtesy Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

The Allure of Sea Glass

When it comes to sea glass, also called beach glass, not all colors are created equal. From the vibrant hues of turquoise and cobalt blue to the delicate shades of pastel pink and soft green glass, each piece tells its own tale. The rarity and origins of sea glass colors can be intriguing to uncover.

What is Sea Glass Made of?

White sea glass, for instance, is often derived from clear glass bottles, while the more elusive colors like red (incredible rare finds), orange, and black originate from antique glassware and decorative items. Sea glass collectors enjoy the challenge of collecting different colors, sizes and shapes to add to their collections.

Sea Glass on North Carolina Beaches

What is it about North Carolina beaches that makes them so ideal for discovering these oceanic gems? Sea glass can be found on most beaches, but the two elements that make North Carolina’s coast particularly advantageous are the strong tidal patterns from the Atlantic Ocean and the vast array of beach activities.

The state’s long-standing fishing industry has been supplying NC’s shores with glass objects since colonial days. In addition, the ships sunk off the coast contribute to the sea glass that washes ashore.

sea glass, shells, and driftwood

Where Can I Find Sea Glass in North Carolina?

There are some beaches that are particularly rich spots for finding sea glass treasures. Whether you’re a beginner

The tide brings in more sea glass which is then scattered along the shore, while a wide variety of recreational activities – like fishing and kayaking – bring in more glass from offshore sources.

As a side note, the best beaches in North Carolina for beach glass are also the most popular for finding seashells and other general beach activities, like swimming and sunbathing.

Where to Find Sea Glass in North Carolina?

A trip to any of North Carolina’s sandy beaches is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. But for those looking to find their own unique sea glass treasures, here are some of the best sea glass beaches in North Carolina listed north to south.

Aerial view of Holden Island
Aerial view of Holden Beach

Holden Beach

Located in Brunswick County, Holden Beach is a prime spot for finding sea glass of all shapes and sizes. Tucked away on the coast, Holden Beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s the largest of the three islands known as the South Brunswick Islands.

Offering an abundance of shells and sea glass along the low-tide line, the shoreline of Holden Beach is a great place for sea-glass hunters to search for surf-tumbled gems. It is a popular place to find blue, green, brown, and white sea glass

Visit early in the morning and look for areas with rocks or pebbles – these are ideal spots for sea glass.

A small stretch of beach along Bay St in Southport will give you wonderful treasures, not only sea glass, it will sprinkle Indian pottery, colonial pottery, civil war artifacts and sea gifts along the shore and the rip rap. It is where the mouth of the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic meet.

In the early 1900’s not only did ships come thru but also the town dumped their garbage in the river. Years later the river gives us these lovely treasures! We grew up a block from there and the river beach never disappointed us when we walked it. It is worth checking out when in the Southport Southern Brunswick Island area.

The little stretch of beach can be viewed on The State Port Pilot web cam. I think the camera is located at the top of the Pilot House where the riverboat pilots watched for the ships coming in at the mouth of the Cape Fear River. Bald Head Island, Fort Caswell, and the Intracoastal Waterway can also be seen from the cam. 

Karen Rouse

Coquina Beach - Cape Hatteras National Seashore-
Coquina Beach – Cape Hatteras National Seashore- Courtesy of Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Nags Head

Located in Dare County along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Nags Head is well-known for its secluded beaches, classic beachfront homes, and plenty of natural beauty. The area’s unique geography and wave energy produce great sea glass and shell beds.

Nags Head is best known for its wide variety of sea glass colors, from brilliant greens and blues to amber and pink. The beach is a great spot for beachcombing any time of year, but summer months bring in more glass due to increased recreation activities offshore.

I asked Aaron Tuell at the Outer Banks Visitor Bureau for his recommendation on the best Outer Banks beach for sea glass. He recommends, “Coquina Beach, just a couple miles south of Nags Head, NC. This beach is often less visited during the less-than-peak tourism season, so the early bird can comb to their hearts’ desire to find the colorful gems in the cooler months.”

Sea Glass hunting - nags head
Sea Glass found in Nags Head – Courtesy of Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Kitty Hawk

Known for its historical significance in flight, Kitty Hawk’s beaches also hold secrets of sea glass. Spend your mornings exploring the sand dunes and your afternoons discovering hidden gems along the shore.

Located in Dare County, the area’s shorelines are especially rich in sea glass due to their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The salty surf and tidal patterns bring in a variety of colorful treasures that can be found scattered along the low-tide line.

Related: Make the Most of Your Family Trip With These 20 Things to Do in the Outer Banks

Child on boardwalk at Pea Island
Boardwalk at Pea Island

Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island is one of the best Outer Banks’ barrier islands for finding shells and sea glass. The island’s Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge beaches offer miles of wide beaches that are plentiful with shells, sea glass, and sharks teeth. The waves along this stretch of shoreline are some of the most powerful on the East Coast, creating an ideal environment for tumbling glass into smooth gems.

Along the shoreline, visitors can find a variety of colors – from deep blues and greens to light browns and pinks. Beachcombers will also find whole seashells as well as an array of sharks’ teeth and whelks.

I’ve found the best variety here after a storm. The wind and waves bring in lots of sea glass that might have been missed during calmer conditions. Just make sure to check the weather and come prepared for strong winds and cooler temperatures.

Related: Find fun-filled summer vacation ideas for families near me

sea glass in hand
sea glass we found

Ocracoke Island

Tucked away on the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a haven for sea glass enthusiasts. Its remote location makes it a prime spot for finding unique pieces, especially after storms. Here you’ll find all sorts of colors, shapes, and sizes that can be used to create a wide variety of art pieces.

The island has been home to pirates, adventurers, and shipwrecked sailors — adding to its abundance of treasures. So if you’re looking for unique artifacts, history, and beach glass, Ocracoke Island is the place to go and explore.

Taking a day trip to Ocracoke or spending the night on the island is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure for beachcombers, so make sure you don’t miss out!

If you are looking for hotels and lodging near these locations in Outer Banks, see this map below with current rates. All the areas mentioned above are highlighted on the map.

Cape Lookout Lighthouse Aerial Sunrise
Cape Lookout Aerial View at Sunrise – Courtesy Crystal Coast Tourism Authority

Cape Lookout

A true gem of the Crystal Coast, Cape Lookout is not only a picturesque beach destination but also a prime location for unearthing glass treasures. It’s one of the best spots on the East Coast for collecting beach glass as well as shells and other treasures.

On this barrier island, beachcombers will find both the rarest and most common colors of sea glass along these shores. Nearby Harkers Island is also a good option.

Located at the southern tip of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, the area’s strong wave currents make it a great spot for beachcombing. Its gentle sloping shoreline is the perfect place to search for sea glass and other treasures.

Cedar Island

Cedar Island, located just south of the Outer Banks, is a remote island home to some of the most stunning beaches in North Carolina. The area’s sandy shoreline offers an abundance of beach glass that can be found glistening among the sand and shells. The beach is especially rich with pieces after a storm.

The area’s shallow waters are full of colorful shells and sea glass. From deep blues to light pinks, you’ll find an array of colors that can be added to any collection or craft project.

Emerald Isle - Beach with Birds
Emerald Isle – Beach with Birds – Courtesy Crystal Coast Tourism Authority

The Point in Emerald Isle

Located in Carteret County, Emerald Isle is a popular spot for beachcombers and families alike. This enchanting beach destination lives up to its name with its emerald, crystal-clear waters and potential for sea glass finds.

The Point is the best spot on Emerald Isle for glass collectors. Here you’ll find all sorts of colors and sizes of sea glass as well as shells, starfish, and other beach treasures. The area’s mild surf and gentle tides make it a great place for finding sea glass washed up on shore. The vast array of beach activities from fishing to surfing also bring in glass from offshore sources. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran collector, Emerald Isle is the perfect spot for treasure hunting!

Atlantic Beach shoreline
Atlantic Beach shoreline – Courtesy Crystal Coast Tourism Authority

Fort Macon Beach in Atlantic Beach

Located in Carteret County, Atlantic Beach is a popular area for beachcombers and glass hunters. Fort Macon is a great spot for finding glass and shells along the shoreline. The area’s powerful waves bring in sea glass from offshore sources, which makes it easy to find pieces of all colors and sizes.

You’ll often find beautiful blues and greens here — as well as rarer pieces like pink and ambers. The area is secluded enough to provide a peaceful beachcombing experience without the crowds of other popular destinations in the Outer Banks.

Fort Macon also offers plenty of activities such as fishing, surfing, kayaking, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the area’s historic Civil War fort and enjoy the nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Note: While you are in this area, also plan a trip to Sanddollar Island – a hidden gem for finding sand dollars and other seashells.

Topsail Island

Topsail Island is renowned for its unspoiled beaches and vast array of recreational activities. This coastal gem between Jacksonville and Wilmington offers stunning views, crystal clear waters, and an ideal environment for beachcombing.

Topsail’s quiet beaches are perfect for treasure hunting, with its mix of sand dunes and tidal pools providing the perfect backdrop for uncovering sea glass and shark teeth. Green, brown, and white glass are popular here.

The area’s strong surf and waves also make it a great spot to scour the sand for gems. With its family-friendly atmosphere and long stretch of beaches, Topsail is a top spot for finding sea glass in North Carolina!

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach offers the perfect combination of relaxation and recreation. This coastal retreat along North Carolina’s southeastern coast is an excellent spot for uncovering shells and glass.

The beach’s shallow water makes it a great spot for beachcombing, with all sorts of colors washing up on the shore. It’s also one of the best places to find rare ambers and pinks — as well as chunks of wine glass or bottle glass that can be tumbled into gems.

Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination among beachgoers and families, with plenty of activities including fishing, surfing, paddleboarding, and boating. So whether you’re an experienced glass collector or a curious beachcomber, this is the place to go!

If you are looking for hotels and lodging near these locations along or near the Crystal Coast, see this map below with current rates. All the areas mentioned above are highlighted on the map.

Tips for Beach Glass Hunting

When you finally set foot on a beach in search of treasures from the sea, here are a few tips to help make your experience even more memorable:

  • The best time to search for sea glass is usually early mornings or later in the day, at low tide and there’s less foot traffic on the beach.
  • Look for areas along the shoreline with rocks or pebbles as they are great places for the waves to deposit and trap sea glass.
  • After a storm is a great time to search for sea glass as the waves churn up new treasures from deeper in the ocean.
  • Keep an eye out for any brightly colored pieces that stand out among the sand and shells.
  • Look for debris like seaweed or driftwood washed up on shore. Pieces of pottery or glass often get lodged in this debris.
  • Don’t forget to check the tidal pools and rock formations along the shore as these are great spots for finding sea glass.
  • When you’re done beachcombing, make sure to clean up any litter or debris that you find on the beach. This helps keep our beaches clean and safe for future beachgoers
  • Use a mesh bag to carry your finds so that air can flow through it and dry off any wet pieces.
  • Wear polarized sunglasses to help spot more glass among the sand and surf.
  • Pick up pieces of glass one at a time to avoid damaging any potential gems.
  • Don’t forget to leave some pieces behind so others can enjoy the same experience you did!
  • Look out for small details like colors, patterns, and shapes.
best sea glass beaches in north carolina

Crafting Memories from Sea Glass

Now that you know the best places to find sea glass in North Carolina, let’s talk about how you can make those memories last forever.

The joy of sea glass hunting doesn’t end when you’ve collected your treasures. Engage your creative spirit and turn your finds into keepsakes that will forever remind your family of your North Carolina adventure.

  • Sea Glass Jewelry: Transform your sea glass gems into stunning jewelry pieces. Create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that capture the essence of the coast and make for thoughtful gifts or cherished heirlooms.
  • Home Décor: Incorporate sea glass into your home décor by crafting candle holders, picture frames, or mosaic artworks. These pieces will not only add a touch of coastal charm but also carry the memories of your beachcombing escapades.
  • Wishing Stones: Use your sea glass finds to create unique wishing stones. Paint or write your wishes on the glass, then scatter them around your garden or home for a touch of whimsy and positivity.

Make a Day of It!

Exploring the beaches of North Carolina in search of sea glass is a great way for the whole family to bond and create lasting memories while reconnecting with nature. So why not make a day of it and visit some of the best beach spots in the state?

The shores of North Carolina offer more than just breathtaking views – they hold the promise of discovery, bonding, and creativity for families with older children and teens. Embrace the rhythm of the tides, feel the sand beneath your feet, and let the joy of sea glass hunting become a cherished chapter in your family’s travel story.

Whether you’re looking to experience one of North Carolina’s most iconic destinations or just looking for a peaceful escape, beach lovers will find the perfect getaway.

And who knows what gems you’ll find? You may just stumble upon a piece of sea glass that will be passed down through generations as a reminder of your time together on the beach. What could be more valuable than that?

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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