California Travel Tips
Sand Sculpting Comes to California
Published on: July 09, 2017
California sand sculpting season is in full swing this week with the Imperial Beach Sun & Sea Festival (pictured) and San Clemente’s Ocean Festival Sand Sculpting Contest. According to sand sculpting experts, California’s beaches aren’t always the best spot for sandcastle sculptures and contests. Don’t tell that to the crowds–thousands attend these popular events.
Building Better Sand Sculptures
- In general, beach sand is not suitable for sand sculpting because its grains are rounded due to tidal wash and wind, and it contains no silt and clay.
- Professionals prefer sand originating from fluvial deposits (river sand) that has angular grains mixed with a fraction of silt and clay. These characteristics enable the sand to bond better.
- If a beach is situated near estuaries, the sand can be suitable for sculpting.
- The lifespan of a sand sculpture depends on the quality of the sand, local weather conditions and climate. A sculpture can last 4 to 6 months with the right type of sand.
Sand Sculpture & Castle Festivals in California
- Imperial Beach July 14-15, 2017
- San Clemente July 16
- San Pedro Cabrillo Beach July 22
- Balboa Island Ruby Beach August 5
- Manhattan Beach August 6
- Point Reyes Drakes Beach August 27
- San Diego September 1-4
- Carmel Beach September 16
- Oceanside September 16-17
- Pacifica September 23-24
- Corona del Mar October 1
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