About this Event
Sand Sculpture Contest - Capitola Beach Festival
Get ready to unleash your creativity at the Sand Sculpture Contest during the Capitola Beach Festival! Join us in person on the sunny shores as artists of all ages shape amazing sand masterpieces. Whether you're a pro or just wanna have some fun, this is the place to be. Bring your shovels, buckets, and your best ideas for a day full of fun, sun, and sandy art! Don't miss out on this awesome beach bash.
The annual Sand Sculpture Contest, a Capitola tradition since 1971, takes place on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Judging starts before 2:00 p.m. and awards announced after 2:30. This year’s festival theme “Toy Takeover’ promises to inspire creativity and imagination in sculptors of all ages.
Whether you’re a seasoned sand artist or just looking to have some fun with family and friends, there are multiple categories to compete in, including divisions for children (ages 8 and under and 9-14), small groups, large groups, and adult-child teams.
Capitola provides the perfect backdrop for a day of creativity and community spirit. With its picturesque wooden wharf, scenic waterfront walkway, vibrant downtown shops, amazing restaurants and, of course, its stunning beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, all within walking distance.
Participants are encouraged to bring their shovels, buckets, sand sculpting tools, and beach chairs to fully embrace the fun. Build close to the surf. But watch out for high tide!
Event venue & nearby stays
Capitola Beach, 141 Esplanade, Capitola, United States
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