Only Two More Special Glass Float Drops on Central Oregon Coast (Aside from Daily Finds)

Published 08/31/2026 at 8:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Lincoln City, Oregon) – Now encroaching on its 27th year, there's only two of the special glass float drops left in 2026. Granted, every day there are floats dropped. EVERY day (unless there's inclement tidal conditions). But those special glass float drops in Lincoln City create quite the buzz.

The central Oregon coast burgh started a big thing back in 2000, one that got the ball rolling on various towns around the coastline doing similar treasure hunts (such as Gold Beach and Bandon).

Now, however, there's one more coming up fast in September. Ten extra floats will be dropped in honor of the Lincoln City Fall Kite Festival on September 25 – 27.

Then, come Halloween, 50 more glass orbs get set onto the sands October 30 - November 1.

See the website

“It’s no trick: if you find one, it’s yours to keep,” said Explore Lincoln City.

So how to find one of these daily glass floats on the central Oregon coast? And what happens when you find one?

Explore Lincoln City released guidance on how and where to search for the hand-crafted treasures.

The floats, placed daily along Lincoln City’s seven-mile shoreline, are typically found above the high-tide line and below the beach embankment. They are never placed in beach grass and are only dropped during daylight hours.

Explore Lincoln City emphasize that floats are “hidden” throughout the day rather than at a single scheduled time. But they use that word rather loosely, they said. These gems are not exactly hidden, but more like hiding in plain sight.

Searches should begin at public beach access points, and there is no designated drop site; even city staff do not know where or when floats will be placed. Each float carries a registration number on or near the button on its underside.

While the hunt continues in all weather, officials note that rare unsafe ocean conditions may prompt temporary cancellations announced on the city’s website and social media channels. The city also reminds visitors to tread lightly and respect the coastal environment.

Important: only one float may be claimed per household each year.

Those who find a float can register it by calling 541-996-1274 or by visiting the city’s online registration page. A Certificate of Authenticity and artist information are provided upon registration. In-person registration is available at the Lincoln City Visitor Information Center, located on the fourth floor of 801 SW Hwy 101, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Finders are encouraged to share photos on Facebook or Instagram and tag Explore Lincoln City.

Alongside daily placements, the city conducts special float drops for holidays and major events. Details on upcoming drops are available through Explore Lincoln City.

If you don't find one of these treasures, monthly drawings also offer additional chances to receive a float.

There is yet another way to get one nobody seems to talk about.

Participants in the Trash for Treasures program can enter by collecting a bag of beach litter between Roads End and Siletz Bay, photographing the full bag, and submitting the image with their contact information online or at the Welcome Center. Individuals with physical disabilities who cannot beachcomb may enter the drawing in person at the Welcome Center, also located inside City Hall at 801 SW Hwy 101, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The city currently mails prizes only to U.S. addresses.

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