The Northern California Beach That Is Unlike Any Other In The World
By Jill S.|Published June 06, 2017
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Jill S.
Author
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.
Let’s be honest, Northern California has some pretty spectacular beaches. From interesting geological features to dramatic cliffs to white sand that exfoliates your toes, there are so many different and beautiful places to explore. There’s only one beach in the world like the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, though, and we’re lucky to have it right here in Northern California.
One of the most iconic destinations in Northern California, Glass Beach has dazzled generations of visitors and locals alike.
The site was closed as a dump in 1967 after decades of trash began piling up. Metal and other scraps were removed, but glass was one particle that remained.
Photographers from near and far come to capture the sparkling glass stones, which glisten in the sunlight and decorate the beach in a rainbow of colors.
You may be tempted to take a few pieces of glass with you, but it is actually illegal. Glass Beach is a reminder to take only pictures and leave only footprints.
Future generations should be able to visit Glass Beach for years to come. It's also a great reminder about the power of nature to heal itself and to make sure we treat it with respect.
In addition to the world famous glass beach, the park also features a variety of habitats that include other beaches, bluffs, headlands, dunes, forests and wetland.
It's popular for a range of activities, including: Picnicking, Fishing,
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling,
Nature & Wildlife Viewing,
Windsurfing/Surfing,
Geocaching, and Tide Pool Exploring.
Whether you come to snap a quick picture or to spend the whole day here, the journey will be well worth the spectacular sight of Glass Beach. It's something all Northern Californians should see at least once!
