Holiday Sandcastle Village or Holiday Sand Sculpture Village is our favorite Christmas event on South Padre Island, Texas. The event features incredible holiday-themed sand castles and is beloved by visitors of all ages. We have seen the Holiday sand Castle Village during our Thanksgiving trip to South Padre Island and fallen in love with the massive sand sculptures. Here’s how to visit this unique attraction on the Texas Coast!
Also Read: Texan’s Guide to visiting South Padre Island
History of Holiday Sandcastle Village
Holiday Sandcastle Village is the brainchild of South Padre Island’s most famous sculptor Lucinda “Sandy feet” Wierenga. She has been creating sand sculptures since 1987 and is one of the best sand sculptors in the world.
The first Holiday Sandcastle Village was planned and conceptualized in October 2019. The sculptures were created by Lucinda as well as other renowned international sand sculptors who were visiting South Padre Island for the 32nd Annual Sandcastle Days Competition. South Padre Island CVB as well as local businesses funded the event.
The Holiday Village featured popular themes celebrating the Holiday season and was attended by over 30,000 visitors. That first year, the Village was open to viewing from Thanksgiving to New Years Day in early January. Due to the popular response, the sandcastle Village was converted into a year round event with the sculptures receiving seasonal updates for Valentines Day and Spring Break.
Couples, especially love the hearts and love themed sculptures, making it one of the most romantic attractions on South Padre Island. But come October and the sculptors get busy again – creating a Christmassy and beachy Holiday Sandcastle Village that will wow visitors!
Why visit the Holiday Sandcastle Village?
So why should you visit the Holiday Sandcastle Village when there are so many amazing attractions on South Padre Island? The Holiday Sand Castle Village is a must-visit stop on the Sandcastle Trail on South Padre Island for several amazing reasons.
This beautiful Christmas themed sand sculpture gallery features big and small sandcastles that are updated every holiday season. The spring and summer themed castles are taken down and out of that mayhem a new beautiful holiday sand sculpture is created. That means, every time you visit you will see something new on display – and isn’t that a wonderful treat!
10 of the largest sand castles at the Holiday Village feature themes like Sand Snowman, Santa (Sand-ta) Claus and his sled, Christmas tree, as well as a large sand throne – on which you can actually sit and take a selfie! All the sandcastles have names of artists and their information.
The year we saw it, there was also a sculpture of Ila Fox Loetscher – Turtle Lady of South Padre Island and a rescued sea turtle named Merry Christmas. You can see Merry Christmas along with other sea turtles at Sea Turtle Inc, a rescue and conservation center founded by Loetscher.
On a visit, you can see these beautiful works of art and admire their intricate details. You may also see the sand sculptors at work creating something new. You can also admire the musical light show that lights up the whole tent.
The sand sculptures are just stunning and you can’t help but admire the sheer talent of the artists who created these sculptures. Kids as well as adults love seeing the beautiful sculptures, making it a favorite attraction.
Where is the Holiday Sandcastle Village of South Padre Island?
The Holiday Sand Castle Village takes place every year adjacent to the Gravity Park amusement park. A large 60’ by 30‘ tent is set up under the Ferris Wheel to house the amazing sandcastles. This is the central Entertainment district of South Padre Island and close to all major hotels and restaurants.
You can reach the location either via the free Island Metro shuttle or golf carts if you do not wish to drive your car. Louie’s Backyard is located close to the Sandcastle Village and is a great spot to grab food after your visit.
The address is 106 W Marlin St. South Padre Island, Texas, USA, 78597
Holiday Sandcastle Village – Fees and timings
The Holiday Sand castle Village is free to visit for all visitors. However, they accept donations and we recommend this as it helps support the amazing artists in the community. The Village is open from noon to 9 am daily and is a must-visit attraction on the island.
Christmas on South Padre Island
Sandy beach fun, epic Christmas themed sandcastles, boat parades, fireworks… holiday season on South Padre Island promises Texas-sized celebrations! If you’re looking for more events to celebrate Christmas the South Padre Island way, then check out our guide on 10 Best Things to do for Christmas on South Padre Island.
Visit Holiday Sandcastle Village and you’ll understand why South Padre Island is the Sandcastle Capital of the World. Walk further on the Sandcastle Trail to see more mind-blowing sculptures. Take a sandcastle lesson or two and discover the secrets of building a sand castle yourself. This is a great family fun activity on South Padre Island and a great way to end your visit after marveling at Holiday Sandcastle Village.