Collecting beach glass in Southwest Michigan

Like collecting stones, fossils, and driftwood, searching Lake Michigan’s shoreline for beach glass is a relaxing hobby that beachgoers of any age can enjoy. Over time, you might pick up the occasional piece of beach glass and display it in a dish. But as your collection grows, you’ll notice the variety of shapes and colors in the pieces you’ve gathered and want to find creative ways to showcase your jewel-like treasures. 

Here is everything you need to know about collecting beach glass in Southwest Michigan and some keepsake projects you can do with your finds.

What Makes Beach Glass?

Beach glass is created from broken shards of glass that have been smoothed by years of tumbling and rubbing against rocks and sand in freshwater. It is similar to sea glass, which is formed in saltwater. In the past, and to a lesser extent today, discarded glass bottles, jars, and construction materials were dumped into Lake Michigan and its waterways. Over the years, these sharp pieces were smoothed by the lake’s natural “rock tumbler,” becoming the frosted treasures beachcombers find today.

What Colors Are Beach Glass?

The most common beach glass colors found along Lake Michigan’s shoreline are shades of white, brown, and light blue. These colors often come from old bottles and jars. Less commonly, you may find green, dark blue, purple, and even, on rare occasions, red or orange. 

In Southwest Michigan, beach glass hunting often yields pieces with distinct textures and markings, such as logos or letters, offering hints at their origins. White beach glass typically comes from clear glass bottles and brown and green pieces are often remnants of beer or soda bottles. Rarer colors like red, purple, and cobalt blue could have originated from decorative glass items, which were not as commonly produced. Discovering these rarer colors is a thrill!

Best Time to Find Beach Glass on Lake Michigan

Spring and fall reveal more glass along the shore after winter and late-summer storms reshape the shoreline. The movement of the waves can uncover new treasures.

For the best success, head out early in the morning or later in the evening. Facing away from the sun allows the light to highlight the glass, making it easier to spot among the stones. At times the glass seems to glow or sparkle in contrast to its duller surroundings.

Where to Hunt

Although you can occasionally find beach glass on Southwest Michigan's more popular beaches, these areas are regularly groomed by machinery, and the higher number of beachcombers reduces your chances of success. Instead, head for less-frequented beaches. Some top choices include less-crowded areas around Warren Dunes State Park, Grand Mere State Park, Van Buren State Park, and Rocky Gap County Park. 

A good beach glass hunting strategy is to look where small stones gather on the shore. The glass often blends with these stones, so you may need to train your eyes to distinguish between the two. The location of these stony patches will shift with the waves, so a productive spot one day may disappear the next. White beach glass is often the easiest to spot because it contrasts with the darker-colored stones. Brown or green glass can be more challenging but rewarding to discover.

Always dispose of sharp or dangerous glass properly to ensure the beach remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Beginners

For those new to beach glass hunting, here are a few tips:

• Wear polarized sunglasses: They can help reduce glare on the water and sand, making it easier to spot glass.
• Bring a mesh bag: This will allow you to collect glass without taking home sand or water.
• Bring a Small Shovel: Use a shovel to gently sift through small pebbles and stones where beach glass may be hiding.
• Look Near the Waterline: Beach glass tends to accumulate where small stones and debris gather.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Finding beach glass takes time, so patience is key. The more you search, the sharper your eye will become at spotting hidden treasure.

What to Do With Your Beach Glass

Once you've collected your beach glass, the possibilities for using it are endless! Fill decorative jars or bowls with colorful pieces and add to your home decor. Or fashion unique beach glass jewelry — rings, earrings, and pendants can be made from your finds. You can also craft mosaics, transform the glass into refrigerator magnets, design wind chimes, sun catchers, and holiday ornaments, or embellish coasters and picture frames. Scattering the glass in your flower beds or planters can evoke a whimsical, coastal vibe. Or, capture your collection through photography to create eye-catching wall art or personalized cards.

Where to Find Beach Glass-Inspired Art in Southwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan has several local artisans who use beach glass in jewelry, home decor, and art pieces. Many local shops, galleries, and art fairs in our beach towns feature their handmade items. By supporting local artists, you not only take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir but also celebrate the creativity inspired by the shores of Lake Michigan.

Things to Keep in Mind

Relax and enjoy every moment while combing our beaches. This is the perfect way to unwind after a busy week. Consider bringing a small waste bag or trash bag to collect any sharp glass or garbage you may find along the way. Let’s all do our part to leave the beach cleaner than we found it.

Besides beach glass, you can find other shoreline treasures like crinoids, ceramic fragments, driftwood, Petoskey stones, and geodes. Occasionally, you might discover coins or fossils, too. For hunting tips, check out our Rock & Fossil Hunting blog to double the fun and treasures in your collection!

Best of luck on your next beach glass hunt!

Extend Your Hunt To Enjoy Greater Success

While you can hunt for beach glass on a day trip, staying over one or more nights gives you more time to search and discover all that Southwest Michigan offers. Lodgings with the amenities and rates you want are within minutes of the best hunting beaches. Make it a refreshing getaway and return home rested with newfound treasures and memories. 

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