Heritage Vacation Homes Blog
At Heritage Vacation Homes, we believe the best trips start with a beautiful place to stay and local knowledge to guide the way. Our luxury homes in Cannon Beach and Arch Cape are designed to bring people together along one of the most stunning stretches of the Oregon Coast. Through this blog, we share our favorite beaches, seasonal traditions, and hidden coastal gems. Think of it as your insider guide to exploring the coast beyond the typical travel lists. We hope it helps you discover new places— and create lasting memories along the shore.
Family Fun at the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest: A Tradition You Can Join!
The Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest isn’t just any event — it’s the oldest sandcastle contest west of the Mississippi and one of Cannon Beach’s most beloved traditions.
And guess what? Families with children are invited to join the fun!
A Piece of Cannon Beach History
First held in 1964 as a way to bring visitors back after a major storm, the Sandcastle Contest quickly grew into an annual celebration. Now, it’s a joyful day where locals and visitors of all ages gather to create, compete, and admire incredible works of sandy art. While master builders craft intricate designs, there are special family and kids categories just for your family!
Everyone can build
You don’t have to be a professional sculptor to compete. Families are encouraged to team up, grab their buckets and shovels, and create whatever they can dream up — castles, sea creatures, mermaids, even a sandy Haystack Rock! The focus in the family category is all about fun, creativity, and teamwork.
Even first-timers are welcome and celebrated — every contestant gets an official sand castle contest T-shirt. It’s the perfect chance for kids to show off their imagination and for parents to join in the laughter.
Tips for Family Teams:
- Register here for a family team or a “sand fleas” team of only kiddos
Pack buckets, plastic shovels, and kitchen tools like spatulas and spoons for detailed work.
Plan a simple idea (sea animals, fairy tale castles, or beach scenes are popular and fun).
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and beach snacks to keep your team energized.
Arrive early for the best spot and to soak in the festive atmosphere!
Make it a Family Tradition
Many families who enter once find themselves returning year after year, making the Sandcastle Contest part of their own family’s summer traditions. It’s the kind of memory your kids will treasure — a day spent building, laughing, and marveling at what a little teamwork and a lot of sand can create.
Make a Weekend of It
The Sandcastle Contest is the perfect excuse to turn a day of fun into a full family getaway. Book one of our vacation rentals, explore Cannon Beach’s charming shops and restaurants, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views. Many families return year after year, making the Sandcastle Contest a tradition that kids look forward to as much as summer itself.
Ready to Dig In?
Registration for the family division is easy: simply sign up online here. Keep an eye on the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce website for dates, times, and helpful guidelines.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your shovels, and head to Cannon Beach — the sand is waiting for your masterpiece!
Heritage Vacation Homes is a boutique collection of luxury vacation rentals along the Oregon Coast and on Maui, thoughtfully designed for families and multi-generational gatherings.
With local insight, elevated amenities, and carefully curated homes, we create beautiful spaces where meaningful memories are made.