Alameda Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest

 Saturday, June  21, 2025, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Cost: Free! alamedaca.gov

Robert Crown Memorial State Beach -
Westline Drive & Otis Drive
Alameda, Calif.
ebparks.org

Building Sand Castles at the beach is a California tradition. Why? Some the state's great beaches have nearly perfect sand for building, according to professional sand sculpture experts. While big sandcastle festivals seem to come and go like the waves washing into shore, then fading back into the sea, Alameda's event is still going strong 57 years after it began.

Established in 1966, the Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest is an annual tradition that locals and visitors look forward to each year. The event is sponsored by Alameda Recreation and Park Department, East Bay Regional Park District and other groups.

Registration 9 - 11 a.m.
Viewing and judging at 12 Noon; Awards presented at 1 p.m.

Categories for Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture are:
Ages 12 and Under
Ages 13 and Over
Family

Here's the rules, subject to change:
Bring your shovel, bucket and creative ideas to build a unique work of art out of sand.
1. Sand Castles and Sand Sculptures must consist of sand only with the exception of wood, rocks, shells, etc., found on the beach the day of the contest and used as decorations only. No glass or live animals.
2. No superstructures or permanent forms of any kind shall be incorporated in your structure.
3. Sand forms (flower pots, milk cartons, buckets, etc.) may be used, but only as forms.
4. The use of shovels, hoes, spatulas is permitted.
5. The castle or sculpture must be confined within assigned space.
6. No collecting of live animals or egg cases from wet beach and mudflat areas.
7. Structures must be completed by the deadline time of 12:00 noon or upon the arrival of the first judge.

JUDGING:
Castles and Structures will be judged on the following basis:
DESIGN - 30 points (originality of subjects and design)
DETAIL - 30 points (originality of shape, lines and space)
NEATNESS - 20 points (sharp relief, balanced proportions overall)
TECHNIQUE - 20 points (use of forms, drip method, shaping of arches, etc.)

The Contest is co-sponsored by the Bayview Women's Club, East Bay Regional Park District, Alameda Youth Committee, and ARPD.

Other Alameda events you might enjoy include:
Earth Day Celebration

Egg Scramble, Bunny Breakfast

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.