One of the wonders of the Oregon Coast is the bounty of vibrant sea life you can spy on beach walks. But in Lincoln City, you’ll find other sea- inspired treasures to seek out on coastal treks. Every year over 3,000 handblown glass floats — all made by regional artists — are hidden by volunteers, known as Float Fairies, along a 7-mile (11-km) stretch of Lincoln City’s sandy beaches from Roads End to Siletz Bay. Finders Keepers, a program of Explore Lincoln City, is an annual treasure hunt that started 25 years ago as a way to ring in the new millennium. The project was inspired by the antique Japanese glass fishing floats that would wash up on Oregon’s shores and were coveted by local beachcombers for generations. Most modern-day fishing floats are made of plastic or aluminum, but regional artists — commissioned by Explore Lincoln City — revived the tradition of creating beautiful glass floats and allowing visitors to find them on the beach. The floats are dropped 365 days a year, unless extreme weather gets in the way. Each one is a singular marvel, handcrafted and signed by a coastal artist with distinct colors and textures — ranging from a metallic finish to multicolored designs that evoke seascapes and sunsets. To find one, head to Lincoln City’s 7 miles (11 km) of public beach, rain or shine, and keep your eyes peeled. If they elude you there, similar glass floats are available in several galleries and shops around town. Even better, you can sign up to make your own with experienced glassblowers at the Lincoln City Glass Center. Finders Keepers Celebrates 25 Years of Glass Treasures Register your float If you find a float, register your treasure and you’ll be mailed a certificate of authenticity and information about the artist who made it. The registration number is located on or near the “button” on the underside. One float per household per year. Visit ExploreLincolnCity.com/Glass-Floats to learn more. NATHAN HOLSTEDT 8 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
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