When you think of making castles in the sand, you likely think back to your childhood days and the poor attempts made with buckets and plastic shovels. Creating genuine works of art from sand is truly a remarkable talent, one that captivates dedicated artists who craft awe-inspiring works of art that must be witnessed to be truly appreciated.
If you haven’t had the chance to witness incredible sand sculptures, you’re in for a special treat. Fortunately, you can seize this opportunity by joining us at the 2023 Sanding Ovations sand art event in the beautiful City of Treasure Island, FL.
With this city being the proclaimed “Sand Sculpture Capital” of the state, it just makes sense for this exciting event to be held on this beach. This year marks the 15th Annual Sanding Ovations Treasure Island competition.
So, book your Treasure Island vacation rental for the weekend of November 16th – 19th, or the 25th and 26th, and be prepared to be wowed along with thousands of other visitors by some of the most stunning works of sand art to be found anywhere in the world.
Sanding Ovations
The Sanding Ovations sand sculpture competition has always been held in mid-November. For 2023, the Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup competition runs from Thursday, November 16th through Sunday, November 19th, with an encore performance the weekend of the 25th and 26th. So popular is this festival that encore weekends were added a few years ago.
In the picturesque coastal town of Treasure Island, Florida, November brings with it an annual celebration of creativity and craftsmanship: the Sanding Ovations Sandcastle Building event. Against the backdrop of sun-kissed shores and the soothing rhythm of the Gulf waves, skilled artisans and enthusiastic beachgoers alike converge to transform ordinary sand into extraordinary works of art. This cherished tradition, known for its vibrant community spirit, invites participants to let their imaginations run wild, crafting intricate castles, sculptures, and fantastical scenes that defy the ephemeral nature of their medium. As families and friends gather to witness these beachfront marvels, the event fosters a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for the boundless potential of sand as an artistic medium. With each passing wave, these ephemeral masterpieces serve as a testament to the fleeting beauty that can be found in the simplest of materials. Whether a seasoned sandcastle sculptor or a curious observer, the Treasure Island Sanding Ovations event promises a day of wonder, creativity, and seaside enchantment.
Plan Your Visit
Browse our entire inventory of rentals in Treasure Island and beyond to find your perfect accommodations!
About
Sanding Ovations can trace its roots all the way back to 1985 when the largest sand sculpture in the world was built on Treasure Island. One of the organizers of Sanding Ovations, who was a volunteer for the record-setting 1985 sculpture, went on to create a precursor to Sanding Ovations sometime after that. Following Governor Jeb Bush’s declaration that Treasure Island was the “Sand Sculpture Capital of Florida” in 2001, Sanding Ovations was born, with the first event held in 2008.
Today, the Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup draws sculptors and tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. Sculptors have hailed from, among other countries, Ireland, Canada, and France. In 2021, more than 40,000 visitors came to Treasure Island for this show.
In addition to the amazing sand art, visitors will find an arts and crafts market, food court, beer garden, fireworks, and performances by local and national bands. The Sanding Ovations sand sculpture competition is free to attend.
Stay with Sandcastle
After a long day viewing incredible sand sculptures, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your head at night. That’s where Sandcastle Realty comes in! We have a wide selection of Treasure Island vacation rentals and beyond to ensure that your stay is nothing short of relaxing and rejuvenating.
At Sandcastle Realty, we pride ourselves on finding the perfect rental to suit your specific needs. Our properties include pet-friendly Treasure Island rentals for when you’re traveling with a furry companion and beachfront Treasure Island rentals so you can wake up and drift off to sleep each night to the soothing sounds of the tide.
With our accommodations, you can expect spacious, full kitchens, king- and/or queen-sized beds, private balconies or decks, in-unit washer/dryer, flat-screen TVs, community pools, and convenient beach access. You might also enjoy a hot tub, gas fire pit, gas BBQ grill, fireplace, and garage parking.
So what are you waiting for? Contact us today to get started on the Treasure Island getaway of your dreams!
