Finding Sea Glass In New Brunswick

New Brunswick is a great place to find sea glass, especially on Grand Manan Island. The island has numerous beaches to explore, such as Stanley Beach and Seal Cove Beach, which are known for their abundance of sea glass. The powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy ensure that there are two fresh batches of sea glass to explore every day. In addition to Grand Manan, Campobello Island is also a popular destination for sea glass hunters, as it is home to some of the dreamiest sea glass. The island has a rich history, including being a former summer resort destination for wealthy Americans and Canadians, increasing the likelihood of finding rare and historic pieces of sea glass.

Grand Manan Island

Stanley Beach is one of the best spots to hunt for sea glass on the island. As a rocky beach, Stanley Beach tends to catch sea glass in the rocks when the tide goes out, so you're likely to find at least 20 smooth pieces if you dig a little. You can find white, clear, lavender, green, and brown sea glass on this beach, and maybe even some blue.

Another good spot to find sea glass is behind the Surfside Inn, a basic and reasonably priced motel located right on the ocean. The beach behind the motel is also known as one of the most reliable sea glass beaches on the island.

For a sandy beach experience, Seal Cove Beach is a good option. While you won't find sea glass here, you can enjoy a beach picnic or go for a swim.

If you're looking for a challenge, Pettes Cove is a rocky beach where you can find some sea glass, but it's not as abundant as at Stanley Beach. This beach is also a good spot to see seals.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that there is only one gas station and one grocery store on the island, so it's recommended to always have a full tank of gas and plan your meals ahead.

Campobello Island

The island is accessible by two ferry rides: one free ferry from L'Étete to Deer Island, and one paid ferry from Deer Island to Campobello Island. The ferries are weather-dependent, so it is important to check their Facebook page for schedule and updates. The ferries cost $24-25 one-way for a vehicle and driver, then $5 for each additional adult. Children under 12 sail for free.

The island offers a range of activities for visitors, including sea glass hunting, exploring lighthouses, whale watching, and visiting the Roosevelt Campobello International Park. The park features historic buildings, trails, and the Prince Cafe, where visitors can enjoy a meal or participate in the "Tea with Eleanor" experience.

Some of the best beaches for sea glass hunting on Campobello Island include Pollock Cove, the Ferry Landing, and Friars Bay. These beaches offer the opportunity to find rare and colourful pieces of sea glass, such as blues, purples, and reds.

In addition to its natural attractions, Campobello Island also has a few restaurants with ocean views, although no bars. Visitors can also enjoy takeout while watching the water and whales from the wharf.

The island is also home to two villages, Welshpool and Wilson's Beach, and has a population of around 870 people. It was once a summer resort destination for wealthy Americans and Canadians, and was the summer home of President Franklin Roosevelt.

Seaglass Beach, Blacks Harbour

Nestled in the fishing village of Blacks Harbour, in Charlotte County, you will find the elusive Seaglass Beach. This "secret" beach is located at the ferry terminal to Grand Manan Island, where lucky island hoppers catch the ferry to their destination. Upon checking in for the ferry, which must be done 45 minutes prior to departure, you are directed to park in a designated lane. However, instead of waiting in your car, you can choose to explore the beauty of Blacks Harbour, including the hidden cove known as Seaglass Beach.

Seaglass Beach is a treasure trove for beachcombers and locals alike. It is important to note that while this beach may not yield perfectly tumbled and frosted pieces, it is still possible to find some rare gems with a bit of patience and persistence. Over the years, visitors have discovered various colours of seaglass, including red, deep purple, and perfectly tumbled pieces.

To reach Seaglass Beach, follow the directions to the Blacks Harbour ferry terminal. Once you arrive, make your way to the very back of the parking lot entrance, and there you will discover the hidden cove, sprinkled with seaglass. The beach is located approximately 50 minutes from Saint John and 2 hours and 20 minutes from Moncton, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking a seaglass adventure.

When visiting Seaglass Beach, it is important to keep in mind that the parking lot by the beach is designated for trucks and authorised vehicles. Be mindful not to block these vehicles and respect the space of those catching the ferry. Additionally, Blacks Harbour is home to several prominent seafood companies, so you can also indulge in a variety of fresh seafood delights during your visit.

St. Andrews

If you're looking to find sea glass in St. Andrews, head to a sandy beach with some washed-up junk on it. Walk along the gravel ridge just above the waterline, and you'll likely spot some sea glass, especially if you go in the morning and wear polarized glasses. While there might not be a lot, you can still expect to find a few pieces each day.

For the best sea glass hunting, look for beaches with a mix of sand and rocks or beaches that are entirely rocky. These beaches, especially those with coves, create the ideal conditions for tumbling and frosting glass. Additionally, consider areas with a rich history, like former trading shipping lanes, historical buildings, ports, or even shipwrecks. St. Andrews itself has a rich history, so exploring its beaches can be a great way to combine sea glass hunting with a sense of discovery.

If you're staying at the Algonquin Resort, a walk along the coast of the peninsula on which the town is built can be a great way to explore and search for sea glass. You can also take a day trip to explore the nearby islands of Passamaquoddy Bay, such as Grand Manan Island, which offers endless outdoor recreation and adventure.

Remember to be respectful of private property, plan your trips according to the tides, and consider going on overcast days to make spotting sea glass easier. Happy hunting!

Miscou

The island offers a peaceful and remote experience, from the Municipal Visitor Information Centre at the entrance of Miscou to the historic lighthouse facing the ocean at the tip of the island. Miscou Beach, in particular, is a gorgeous sandy beach hidden away on the island. While some visitors come to see the lighthouse, others opt to spend their afternoon on the beach. The beach is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, as Miscou Island is known for its diverse bird population.

The region of New Brunswick, where Miscou is located, is known for its natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. In addition to exploring Miscou Island, visitors can discover the numerous natural parks, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages that make the region so charming.

For boating enthusiasts, Miscou Harbour Marina is an ideal destination. It provides easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and offers a variety of docking options for both experienced sailors and novices. The marina is nestled in a picturesque setting, allowing boaters to enjoy magnificent ocean views while relaxing in a pristine natural environment. The peaceful and friendly atmosphere of the marina makes it a prime location for those seeking tranquility on their voyage.

Overall, Miscou Island and the surrounding areas of New Brunswick offer a wealth of natural beauty, from pristine beaches to captivating wildlife experiences. Whether you're a boating enthusiast or a nature lover, the region has something to offer for everyone seeking adventure or relaxation.

Frequently asked questions