Many of us have memories of buidling sandcastles at the beach when we were kids. But some people take this childhood pastime to extraordinary levels, going way beyond a few buckets of wet sand and a simple turret or two, crafting elaborate, towering structures that defy imagination. These sand sculptors create intricate castles, detailed sculptures of animals, people, and even entire scenes from stories. Their creations, often crafted with nothing more than sand and water, showcase incredible skill and creativity, transforming the beach into a temporary gallery of sandy masterpieces.

But these contests aren’t just about gazing at awe-inspiring sculptures; they often come along with great food and drink options, live music, and more. You get to relax under the sun, enjoy some great beachy views, and watch some of the world’s best sand sculptors at work. Each beach and competition also has its own style, depending on the destination you’re visiting. With so many sandcastle building events across the U.S., you’re bound to find a competition that adds an extra splash of excitement to your summer vacation.

So before you plan your next beach day, check out these standout destinations around the U.S. that host sand-sational sandcastle competitions. Best of luck!

Revere Beach holds the distinction of being the nation’s first public beach. This makes it a fitting destination for the Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival every July. This event is a magnet for talented sculptors from around the globe, each vying for a coveted cash prize. As you stroll along the beach, marvel at the intricate creations crafted from humble grains of sand. Don’t forget to cast your vote in the People’s Choice contest to help decide which sculpture takes the crown.

You’ll also find a smorgasbord of activities and attractions that make for an unforgettable weekend. From carnival rides and arts and crafts vendors to the mouthwatering variety of seafood offered by food trucks. You’ll also enjoy live music performances that set the perfect summer soundtrack. The Saturday night fireworks display is a dazzling highlight that lights up the sky and caps off the festivities in style. Whether you’re there to appreciate the artistry, indulge in delicious food, or simply soak up the festive vibe, this must-visit Massachusetts event truly encapsulates the spirit of summer in New England.

For a sand sculpting experience earlier in the year, head to Port Aransas, Texas, for the Texas SandFest, typically held in the spring. Known as the largest sand sculpting contest in the U.S., SandFest attracts both amateur and professional sculptors, showcasing a wide range of impressive sand art. Watch the artists in action as they meticulously carve their creations.

Beyond the competition, SandFest is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for all ages. For the little ones, Lesson Mountain provides hands-on instruction in sand sculpting, allowing them to get creative and build their own masterpieces. The Kids Corner provides plenty of excitement with games, face painting, hula hoop contests, and more. When you get hungry after all that sandcastle-building, treat yourselves to some funnel cakes, corn dogs, and lemonade.

The sugar-white sands of Siesta Key, Florida set the stage for the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival. Since its inception in 2010, this event has become a favorite among professional sand sculptors, drawing nearly 40,000 visitors annually. The festival’s allure lies not only in the quality of the sculptures but also in the thrilling atmosphere as artists race against the clock. Be sure to catch the Quick Sand competition, which challenges sculptors to create their designs in just 30 minutes.

The festival isn’t limited to professionals; there’s also an amateur division that welcomes sand sculptors of all ages and skill levels. So if you’re just dipping your toe in the water, you’ll also get to try your hand at creating beautiful sand art, while your kids can participate in the youth division. As you wander through the festival, enjoy live music, food vendors, and the relaxed, beachy vibe that Siesta Key is known for.

For a quintessential New England summer experience, the Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic in New Hampshire is a must-visit. This renowned competition brings together some of the world’s best sand sculptors, who are invited to showcase their skills over several days. You can can enjoy the sculptures even after the contest concludes, as they’re beautifully illuminated each evening for a few weeks. The competition has grown to be known as the largest Masters competition in the northeastern corner of the U.S. with awards worth up to $25,000.

The competition area is also filled with local artists selling their work, live music, and tons of food options, of course. A highlight of the weekend is the fireworks display that lights up the sky, adding a touch of magic to your beach day.

On the stunning Oregon coastline, the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest offers a charming setting for sand sculpting. Held annually in June, this event is the oldest sand sculpture contest in the Pacific Northwest and serves as a beloved kickoff to the summer season. The iconic Haystack Rock provides dramatic views as participants of all ages and skill levels create sandy masterpieces. At this competition, everyone’s encouraged to participate, making it a perfect opportunity for a family-friendly adventure. You can also sign up for a castle-building demonstration with a Master Builder.

The event includes a concert, bonfire (s’mores included!), the Singing Sands 5k Fun Run and Walk, and more. The town of Cannon Beach itself is a quaint and lovely town, known for its upscale restaurants, art galleries, and stunning natural beauty. There are tons of hotel options near the beach, so you can stay awhile and fully enjoy the local culture and scenery. The Ocean Lodge is a cozy, beachfront hotel with stunning ocean views and easy access to the town’s shops and restaurants. Or, the Surfsand Resort is a great family-friendly option that offers cabana service.

Drakes Beach in Northern California hosts the Point Reyes National Sand Sculpture Contest, a beloved community event typically held over Labor Day weekend. This contest is a fantastic introduction to amateur sand sculpting, offering categories for adults, families, and children under 14. Participants are encouraged to use only natural materials found on the beach, adding an eco-friendly touch. The relaxed, supportive atmosphere makes this event perfect for those new to sand sculpting, as well as for seasoned artists looking to enjoy a laid-back competition.

The nearby Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center offers historical exhibits, along with coffee and snacks. Or, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic with the family. The scenic setting, complete with the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, offers plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you’re looking to build a sand sculpture, cheer on the participants, or simply soak up the stunning views, Drakes Beach is a great place to start your sandcastle-building career.

A summer trip to the Jersey Shore isn’t complete without attending the Belmar Sandcastle Contest. This annual event, located on the bustling New Jersey coastline, offers a mix of healthy competition and beachside fun. The contest is divided into various categories based on age, allowing participants of all ages to showcase their creativity. Judges evaluate the castles for creativity, originality, and the clever use of natural accessories. The best part? Admission is free, making this a fantastic, accessible event for everyone.

Beyond the sandcastle contest, Belmar offers a classic Jersey Shore experience. Go parasailing and take a tiki boat ride, or explore local shops and cafes. Try MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos or grab some sweet treats at Sweet! Belmar. Nicholas Markets is great for gourmet groceries and snacks. If you need a caffeine fix, Turnstile Coffee Roasters serves quality craft coffee. Either way, you can’t go wrong.