California is known for its countless beaches. While some are certainly a little more beautiful than others, one of the most stunning (and most unique!) beaches in America is found right here in Northern California and surprisingly, not along the Oregon coast!
Glass Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Northern California. You will find this remarkable beach in MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg.
Peter Unger/Stone Via Getty Images
When you visit this beach, you’ll quickly understand where it receives its name. Years ago, this area was actually a trash dump following the 1906 earthquake. When the beach was cleaned up in the 1960s, broken glass was left behind, transforming the sand into a glistening and colorful treasure.
Peter Unger/Stone Via Getty Images However, more creative stories have circulated of how the sea glass came to be. One story tells of a mermaid who fell in love with a sailor who she saved in the sea. The mermaid was banished to the ocean and her tears would surface on the beach as sea glass.
You may be surprised to know that it actually takes years for the glass to turn into the gems that we find today. During the transformation process, the lime and soda used to make glass is removed, helping to create a soft and round object.
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
When visiting Glass Beach today, you likely won’t find as much sea glass as you would years ago. However, when you do find some of these remarkable creations, don’t take them home with you. It is illegal to remove anything from a state park.
Images by John ‘K’/Flickr
After you have spent time searching for sea glass at this beautiful beach in Northern California, go for a walk and enjoy the views around you.
Images by John ‘K’/Flickr
There are even multiple trails in the area that take you all around Glass Beach and MacKerricher State Park.
Keppet/Flickr
It really is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon or an entire day!
Doug Ogden / Design Pics Via Getty Images
Glass Beach may not be the sandy beach you are used to, but it is definitely beautiful.
Peter Unger/Stone Via Getty Images
You can easily get to this beach by parking in the free area on Glass Beach Drive, which is only a few blocks from Highway 1. If you want to learn more about Glass Beach and MacKerricher State Park, visit the California State Parks website.
Peter Unger/Stone Via Getty Images
However, more creative stories have circulated of how the sea glass came to be. One story tells of a mermaid who fell in love with a sailor who she saved in the sea. The mermaid was banished to the ocean and her tears would surface on the beach as sea glass.
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Images by John ‘K’/Flickr
Keppet/Flickr
Doug Ogden / Design Pics Via Getty Images
If you love visiting some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, how about a road trip? Check out this road trip in Northern California to some of the best hidden beaches around.
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Address: Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA
