Beads by the Bay — Local services in Morro Bay

Wow — what an absolute gem (no pun intended) of a shop!

I stopped into Beads by the Bay today, and all I can say is wow. The visual experience alone is worth the visit — vibrant colors everywhere, unique pieces and beads displayed beautifully, sunlight streaming through the shop, and even a sweet little garden in the back.

I’m thrilled with the necklace I purchased: a stunning, one-of-a-kind piece made from old Roman glass from Afghanistan. Where else can you find something so unique, ethically made, and clearly crafted with intention? Susan’s pieces are the kind you buy to treasure and wear for a lifetime — not fast fashion.

I can’t wait to come back for the African waist beads next time! Susan, the owner, was so kind and knowledgeable — you can feel her passion for what she does. I loved when she told me, “I would never carry anything you could find at Michael’s here” — and you can tell she means it.

Seriously: shop small, support this incredible local gem, and find something...

If you're able, you should check this place out and buy from them FIRST before thinking about going to Michael's or Amazon! Support small businesses that bring joy! They can only stick around if we are here to help

Beads by the bay is a really lovely little shop. Sadly the customer experience there was really awful. The lady at the cash register was talking loudly with a friend on speaker and completely ignored my questions and prioritized her gossip on the phone. Even during check out she didn’t tell her friend to wait one minute. When I asked her some questions she didn’t answer and then passive aggressively responded because I was interrupting her call. I feel bad for the owner that let this lady cover some shifts.. I don’t think I will come in again when I see this lady at...