The Top 5 Beaches for Sea Glass in Cumberland, Nova Scotia

The Cumberland Region is a beachcomber’s paradise! Whether you’re searching for smooth, wave-tumbled sea glass or simply enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, our shoreline is packed with treasures. With dramatic tides, rugged cliffs, and fascinating maritime history, each beach tells a story. Here are five must-visit beaches where you can hunt for beautiful sea glass.

“X” marks the spot! Follow Route 209 to access the beaches below on your sea glass treasure hunt. The distance from Parrsboro to Joggins via route 209 is 106 km, and was recently voted one of the most scenic drives in Canada!

1. Spencer’s Island – Sea Glass & Hidden Gems

If sea glass is your passion, Spencer’s Island Beach is a treasure trove of smooth, colorful pieces shaped by decades of tumbling in the ocean. The area was once a hub for shipbuilding, which means you may even come across historic glass from old bottles or shipwrecks!

Beachcombing Tip: The best time to find sea glass is at low tide or after a storm when fresh pieces are deposited onto the shore. Greens, browns, and clear glass are common, but if you’re lucky, you might find rarer colors like cobalt blue or red!

Safety Note: Wear sturdy footwear, as some areas have sharp rocks and broken glass.

2. Parrsboro’s East Bay Beach – Maritime Glass Haven

Parrsboro’s East Bay Beach is a fantastic spot to find sea glass while enjoying stunning views of the Bay of Fundy. The powerful tides and rich maritime history make it an excellent place for discovering well-worn pieces of glass and other coastal treasures.

Beachcombing Tip: Scan the sandy areas and pebbled sections of the beach, as glass often gets caught among the rocks.

Safety Note: Stay clear of unstable cliffs, especially after heavy rain, and always check tide times before venturing too far.

3. Joggins Beach – Historic Finds Along the Shore

Joggins beach, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage fossil cliffs, also offers great opportunities for finding sea glass. The tides constantly shape the shoreline, washing in new treasures with each cycle. While fossil collecting is not permitted, beachcombers can still enjoy searching for sea glass along the water’s edge.

Beachcombing Tip: Focus on the areas near the tidal pools and along the rocky sections for the best finds.

Safety Note: Be mindful of rapidly rising tides and avoid climbing on or disturbing the protected cliffs.

4. Advocate Harbour – Rugged Beauty & Sea Glass Discoveries

Advocate Harbour’s rocky beaches and tidal flats provide an excellent setting for beachcombing. The currents along this stretch of the Bay of Fundy help bring in new sea glass with each changing tide.

Beachcombing Tip: Check tide pools and areas with smaller rocks at low tide for well-rounded pieces of sea glass.

Safety Note: Advocate Harbour has strong tides and slippery rocks, so wear proper footwear and always be mindful of the water level.

5. Cape Chignecto – A Coastal Treasure Hunt

While best known for its dramatic cliffs and hiking trails, Cape Chignecto’s shoreline also offers opportunities to find sea glass. The remoteness of the area means fewer visitors, increasing your chances of discovering unique pieces.

Beachcombing Tip: Explore rocky and sandy sections at low tide for hidden gems among the natural debris.

Safety Note: The terrain here can be challenging, and Fundy tides rise quickly. Always plan your visit around low tide and wear sturdy footwear.

Beachcombing Rules & Best Practices

Before heading out, it’s important to follow Nova Scotia’s coastal guidelines:

Respect the land – Avoid damaging cliffs or sensitive ecosystems. Fossil collecting is not permitted.

Tide Awareness – Always check tide schedules before exploring, as Fundy tides rise rapidly.

Leave No Trace – Take only what you need and leave the beach as beautiful as you found it.

No Digging – Stick to surface collecting and avoid disturbing natural formations.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual beachcomber, the Cumberland Region shores offer endless treasures. From shimmering sea glass to breathtaking coastal views, every visit holds the promise of a new discovery. So grab your best walking shoes, a collection bag, and a sense of adventure—it’s time to go treasure hunting along Nova Scotia’s stunning coastline!