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Sandcastles - California Sandcastle Contests
Sandcastles are easy to build at California
beaches. Professional sand sculptors say there
are some great beaches for building sand castles
with one of the favorites being Seal Beach
because of the characteristics of the sand--not
too coarse and not too smooth.
While the
big Seal Beach sandcastle event that was held
for over a decade has ended because of the huge
amount of effort required to orchestrate a large
endeavor, sandcastle building and contests are
going strong in places such as Imperial Beach
and Carmel. Simple sandcastle building is
a great vacation activity for kids. It can
occupy their time and provide tactile learning
experiences while they are having fun.
Tips to
building your castle include building your
sandcastle near the water, but not too close.
The waves will destroy your castle as the tides
rise. Dig a hole to the water table where
you'll find the sand is dark and moist. Scoop
wet sand onto the center of the area where
you're building your castle. Work fast so the
sand stays wet. Build towers by forming and
stacking sand patties about the size and shape
of thick pancakes. Place larger patties on the
bottom, and gently shake the patties from side
to side as you pile them so that the sand
settles. Seal your towers by gently pouring
water over them or spraying with a spray bottle
filled with water.
Wet
sand is easiest to work with. Straws are popular
for dusting your creation and a variety of tools
help refine shapes, while most beaches sell big
plastic sandcastle sets that work fine for
beginner.
The Premier Sandcastle event in California in
Imperial Beach is
The U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition.
Held each July, it
draws over 300,000 kids and adults. One of the
best events for children in California
throughout the year, Saturday's sandcastle
building includes a contest called Kids-N-Kastles
Competition. If you seek a family fun escape,
then by all means make a date to attend one of
California's sand castle contests. They are
great for ALL ages.
kids vacations
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