
Seaham Beach
World-famous for its abundant sea glass, Seaham Beach offers a unique coastal treasure hunt amidst stunning Durham scenery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sea glass hunting

Seaham Beach
Best Time
Best for sea glass hunting

Highlights
Must-see attractions
World-famous for its abundant sea glass, Seaham Beach offers a unique coastal treasure hunt amidst stunning Durham scenery.
"Seaham is such a beautiful seaside spot! The atmosphere is calm and refreshing, with a lovely pebble beach."

🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Low tide is crucial for finding the best sea glass. Plan your visit accordingly!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The beach is pebbly, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for beachcombing.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Sea Glass Beach
Seaham Beach
Hunt for colorful, smoothed glass fragments washed ashore from old bottle works. A true treasure trove!

Seaham Harbour
Adjacent to the beach
A picturesque harbor offering scenic views and a glimpse into the town's maritime heritage.

Coastal Walks
Along the Durham Heritage Coast
Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh sea air on well-maintained coastal paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tide for Sea Glass Treasures
Plan Your Visit Around the Tides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Low tide is crucial for finding the best sea glass. Plan your visit accordingly!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The beach is pebbly, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for beachcombing.
🛍️ Bring a Bag for Finds
You'll want something sturdy to collect your sea glass treasures.
☀️ Sunny Days are Best
Good light makes spotting those colorful sea glass pieces much easier.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Low tide is crucial for finding the best sea glass. Plan your visit accordingly!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The beach is pebbly, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for beachcombing.
🛍️ Bring a Bag for Finds
You'll want something sturdy to collect your sea glass treasures.
☀️ Sunny Days are Best
Good light makes spotting those colorful sea glass pieces much easier.
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, including space for motorhomes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seaham Beach is celebrated for its unique sea glass treasures and calming seaside atmosphere, making it a worthwhile visit for both collectors and casual visitors. While some find the pebble beach challenging and may not always find glass, the overall experience is often described as beautiful and refreshing, with good accessibility and family-friendly activities.
"Seaham is such a beautiful seaside spot! The atmosphere is calm and refreshing, with a lovely pebble beach that’s perfect for photos or just relaxing by the water. It’s easy to get to and not far from the city center — definitely worth a visit!"
little girl
"We went here to find Glass beach, we found it, but I think looking back on it, the tide was in too far and getting to it, is not for the faint of heart..... It was cool as we were the only people on this beach, but we didn't find any glass 😮💨 the beach further up looked really nice and was easier to access but we didn't go there 😔"
Alex wayman
"Wot a great little town,lots of parking and near the harbour opposite the main shopping mall there is free parking and overnight stays in camper van or motorhome,we stayed 1 night on route home from a little tour round the Scottish Borders and Lothian and Midlothian area.Good clean beaches too."
Steven Procter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seaham Beach is easily accessible from Durham. You can drive, which takes about 30 minutes, or take a bus. Several bus routes connect Durham to Seaham, offering a convenient option for those without a car.
Yes, Seaham Beach is generally easy to reach. There are parking facilities nearby, and it's a short walk to the seafront.
Absolutely! Seaham Beach is a popular destination for day-trippers from Newcastle and Sunderland. It's a short drive or bus journey away.
Driving is often the most convenient for sea glass hunting, allowing you to carry your finds easily. However, public transport is also viable.
Consider checking local bus schedules if relying on public transport, as services can vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Seaham Beach is a public beach and entry is free. You don't need any tickets to access the beach itself.
Seaham Beach is open 24/7, as it's a natural public space. However, facilities like cafes may have specific operating hours.
There is no entrance fee for the glass beach at Seaham. The sea glass is naturally occurring and free to collect.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of the environment and avoid taking excessive amounts. Check local guidelines if unsure.
Yes, there are several parking areas near Seaham Beach, including options for motorhomes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best time to find sea glass is during low tide, especially after a storm or strong winds, as these conditions tend to bring more glass ashore. Daytime offers better visibility for spotting the glass.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like wellington boots or walking shoes as the beach is covered in pebbles. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly.
Seaham Beach is famous for its wide variety of sea glass colors, including rare blues, purples, and reds, due to its history with glass bottle works. You can find fragments of bottles, marbles, and other glass items.
Yes, there are facilities available near Seaham Beach, including cafes and restrooms, particularly around the harbour and seafront area.
Yes, Seaham Beach is great for families. Children often enjoy exploring the pebbles, looking for sea glass, and even spotting small marine life in rock pools.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants near Seaham Beach, offering a range of options from casual bites to more substantial meals.
You can find typical seaside fare like fish and chips, as well as other options in the town's eateries.
While specific recommendations vary, the cafes and restaurants along the seafront generally receive positive mentions for their convenience and offerings.
Yes, picnicking on the beach is a popular option, especially on a nice day. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Many cafes and restaurants in Seaham offer vegetarian and vegan options, though it's always best to check menus or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Seaham Beach offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with its unique sea glass. Sunrises and sunsets over the water are also stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and coastline. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of sea glass.
The harbour area, the beach itself with its pebbles and glass, and the coastal paths offer diverse photographic subjects.
Yes, photographing sea glass can be very rewarding. Experiment with natural light and different backgrounds to make the colors pop.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide beautiful, soft light. Midday can be harsh, but good for spotting glass.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond glass collecting, the beach itself offers opportunities for play. While it's a pebble beach, kids can still enjoy building temporary structures, exploring the shoreline, and perhaps even spotting small crabs or fish in the rock pools at low tide. The nearby harbour also provides a pleasant area for a stroll. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the pebbles.
💎 Dedicated Sea Glass Collectors
To maximize your chances, timing is everything. Always check the tide charts and aim for low tide. Some collectors swear by visiting after a storm, believing it unearths more treasures. Be prepared to spend several hours combing the beach, and don't forget a good bag for your haul. Many collectors also enjoy the community aspect, sharing tips and finds with fellow enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Newcastle/Sunderland
Focus your visit on sea glass hunting during low tide, enjoy a walk along the harbour, and perhaps grab some fish and chips. It's a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to experience a different side of the North East coast without a long journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Seaham's Sea Glass
Visitors flock to Seaham Beach specifically for sea glass hunting. The best time to find these treasures is during low tide, as the receding waters reveal more of the pebble-strewn shoreline. The variety of colors can be astonishing, ranging from common greens and browns to rarer blues, purples, and even reds. Many collectors find pieces of old bottles, marbles, and even intricate patterns.
Pro Tip: While any time at low tide can yield finds, some beachcombers report better luck after rough weather, as storms can churn up more glass from the seabed. Remember to bring a sturdy bag to carry your finds and wear appropriate footwear for navigating the pebbles.
Exploring Seaham's Coastal Charm
The Durham Heritage Coastline, of which Seaham Beach is a part, offers stunning coastal walks. These paths provide panoramic views of the North Sea and the rugged coastline. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer hike, the scenic beauty is undeniable.
For families, the beach is a fantastic place for exploration. Children can enjoy building sandcastles (though it's mostly pebbles!), searching for small marine creatures in rock pools during low tide, and of course, the thrill of finding their own sea glass treasures.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit