Glass Beach - A Hidden Gem of History and Nature!
Glass Beach in Sidney is an absolute must-visit, but timing is everything! Check the tide pool chart before going—this beach is best accessed at low tide when you can reach the glass and explore the rocky shoreline.
The beach is not only unique for its smooth, colourful pieces of sea glass scattered across the shore but also for its fascinating history. Decades ago, this area served as a dumping ground for residents. Over time, the ocean's waves worked magic, transforming broken glass into beautiful, rounded treasures. These remnants from the past have become little gems to discover, creating a beach experience unlike any other.
Wildlife lovers will be delighted to spot crabs, small fish, and shorebirds around the tide pools. This serene spot is where nature and history blend beautifully.
Parking is available nearby, and it's just a short walk down to the beach. The overall experience is peaceful and visually stunning, making it worth a visit for anyone who appreciates history, nature, and the beauty of sea glass.
Keep in mind that while it’s tempting to take some glass home as a souvenir, leaving it behind helps preserve its charm for...
Read moreA nice spot next to the Sidney pier, easily accessible from downtown Victoria. The beach itself is very small with steps down from Beacon Street nearby.
Parking can be challenging so recommend using transit from downtown Victoria or Swartz Bay terminal for a visit if you are a tourist. (BC Transit, $5 for a day pass, has stop at Beacon Avenue and Fifth Street, an 8-block walk).
Sidney is a wonderful visit 35-minutes by car (~1 hour by transit) and 10-minutes from the BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay.
It is possible to visit Sidney from Vancouver on a day-trip.
I would recommend exploring beyond Vancouver on your...
Read moreA lovely place to sit in contemplation or scavenge for odd bits of glass, shells, or other treasure that may wash up on the beach. Popular with residents and visitors, there are life jackets available for children to keep them safe while they wander by the every moving ocean waters. Glass Beach is part of the active Sidney Waterfront Walkway with fascinating ocean vistas and many restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and most important, ice cream vendors. The full walk is approximately 5 km. Bikes may not be ridden on the walkway making it a perfect place for a leisurely family walk or...
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