This Thanksgiving weekend, Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Key West is hosting an International Sand Art Competition for the second consecutive year during the island’s six-day arts festival. From Nov. 25 through Nov. 28, six of the world’s best sand sculptors will compete on the resort’s private beach, the largest in Key West, to create their masterpieces made from just sand and water. Resort guests and visitors alike enjoy daily live viewing and events, including the chance to win an authentic Spanish coin from the bounty of famous American treasure hunter Mel Fisher.
On Wednesday, Nov. 25, the competition begins as the artists form their works of art in the sand with the sole use of masonry trowels, shovels and, most significantly, their hands. Over the next three and a half days, spectators can witness the live competition unfold from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. daily. The sculptures are lit in the evening for night viewing starting Friday, Nov. 27, until 9 p.m.
A highlight of the competition, treasure seekers can participate in a Mel Fisher Treasure Dig on Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m. in search of a certified silver coin from the 1966 wreck of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha near Key West. The coin is valued at $1,000. Additional prizes include gift certificates for water sport activities, local restaurants, galleries and more. On Saturday, the sculptors will put the final touches on their sculptures with judging taking place from 1 to 4 p.m.where visitors can take part by casting their vote for the “People’s Choice Award.” In addition on Saturday, the resort will boast live entertainment, food and drinks. The award ceremony starts at 5 p.m., followed by an encore presentation of the Key Lime Pirates.
The International Sand Art Competition is run by Sand-Isle, a professional sand sculpting business in Key West. Last year the first-ever event drew more than 12,000 attendees. Event organizer and owner, Marianne van den Broek, currently holds two and a half hour sand sculpting workshops at Casa Marina for guests.
Casa Marina participates in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest loyalty program where guests who book directly through www.waldorfastoria.com have access to benefits including digital check-in, choose your room, and free Wi-Fi at 25 Waldorf Astoria hotels worldwide.
Thanksgiving rates start from $369 per night based on availability. For more information about the International Sand Art Competition, please visit www.sandartkeywest.com. To learn more about or experience Casa Marina, please visit www.waldorfastoria.com/