Santa Monica: Sun, Sand, and Maybe Sea Glass?

Santa Monica, California, is a quintessential Southern California beach destination. With its iconic pier, vibrant Third Street Promenade, and miles of golden sand, it's a place that draws visitors from all over the world. But beyond the famous landmarks, could there be another treasure waiting to be discovered along its shores? We're talking about sea glass, those frosted gems tumbled smooth by the ocean waves.

What to Do in Santa Monica:

• Santa Monica Pier: A must-visit! Enjoy amusement park rides, try your luck at arcade games, visit the aquarium, or simply take in the panoramic ocean views.
• Third Street Promenade: This pedestrian-only outdoor mall is perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying street performers.
• Santa Monica State Beach: Relax on the sand, take a swim, try surfing, or go for a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
• Palisades Park: Stroll along the bluffs overlooking the ocean and enjoy stunning sunsets.
• Heal the Bay Aquarium: Learn about the local marine life of Santa Monica Bay.

Sea Glass Hunting in Santa Monica:

While Santa Monica is known for its broad, sandy beaches, reports of finding significant amounts of sea glass here are not as prevalent as in some other coastal areas with more rocky or pebbly shores. The consistently raked and cleaned nature of the main Santa Monica beach also likely contributes to fewer finds.

However, that doesn't mean it's impossible to discover a piece of sea-worn treasure! Dedicated beachcombers sometimes report finding the occasional shard, especially after storms or during lower tides. Areas near the pier pilings or where the sand meets any rocky sections might be worth a closer look.

Tips for Finding Sea Glass:

• Go after a storm: Rough seas can churn up hidden treasures.
• Look at low tide: More beach area is exposed, potentially revealing previously hidden glass.
• Focus on the tideline: This is where debris, including sea glass, often washes up.
• Be patient: Finding sea glass takes time and persistence.
• Check areas with pebbles or small rocks: Sea glass often gets trapped in these areas.