Siesta Key is world-famous for its beautiful, quartz white sand. So it’s no surprise that our beach is a favorite of world-class and amateur sand sculptors. Just a walk along the beach in either direction from Gulf Haven, and you’re likely to see artists, young & old, at work…
And since 2010, Siesta Key public beach has been host to a master sand-sculpting competition. The Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival is held each year in November.
The competition is a favorite of professional sand sculptors, who have said that the special sand here makes them feel as though their works were “carved in marble.”
Each year, artists create a “community carve,” solo and team sculptures. On Saturday night, the sculptures are lit up with colored lights after sunset. There are “Quick Sand” speed competitions, and live music & refreshments being served up all day.
You don’t have to be an artist to check out the festival! In fact, attendees can get sand sculpting lessons and vote for a People’s Choice award. All winners are announced on Sunday afternoon of the festival. Get tickets and more information here.