Don't discard what appears to be a dark stone, it might be black sea glass! It's rarely black in fact, usually very dark green or blue glass. Keep an eye out for patches of pebbles because they often trap sea glass. If you find a large, deep patch of pebbles, have a seat, relax and start scraping away layer by layer.

Successful sea glass hunting in 2026 relies on understanding "the churn" and identifying the right coastal topography. You should primarily look for rocky or pebbly beaches rather than smooth, sandy ones, as the stones help trap the glass and provide the friction necessary to "frost" it. The best time to hunt is during low tide, particularly after a storm or high-wind event which uncovers fresh layers of debris. Look for "frosted" pieces with rounded, smooth edges; if the glass is shiny or sharp, it is "uncooked" and should be thrown back to continue its journey. Experienced collectors also look for rare colors like turquoise, red, or yellow, which often originate from vintage perfume bottles or tail lights. It is often helpful to walk with the sun at your back so the light catches the translucency of the glass amidst the opaque stones, and to look near the "wrack line" where seaweed and driftwood collect.