Spectacle Island

About Spectacle Island

Spectacle Island in Boston Harbor served as the city's rubbish tip for decades before it was capped and landscaped into a park. The sheltered harbour waters now wash a steady stream of old glass and ceramics out of the island's fill and onto its beaches. It is reached by a seasonal ferry from Long Wharf.

Sea glass at Spectacle Island

Plentiful glass, including pale green Depression-era pieces, along with willow-pattern china and cup handles. Many pieces are only lightly frosted because the harbour is calm.

Visiting Spectacle Island

Getting there

Ticketed ferry from Long Wharf, Boston, running roughly May to October.

Safety

Check the tide times before you go and head out on a falling tide, so you're never cut off. Keep away from the bottom of cliffs, wear sturdy shoes on rocks, and follow the collecting rules above.