Come see the beach transformed into an outdoor gallery at the 2026 Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup in Treasure Island, November 19–22, with an encore weekend November 27–29. Master sand sculptors from around the world turn sand and water into towering, intricate works of art. Alongside their creations, discover sponsor sculptures by Treasure Island’s own professional sand sculptors and event organizers, Dan and Meredith Doubleday.
Make a day of this free, all-ages waterfront celebration. Explore the sculptures, browse the arts and crafts marketplace, and enjoy food vendors, a beer garden and live music featuring local, regional and national touring bands.
Look skyward for the Kite Flyers Showcase, featuring colorful displays, skilled kite flyers and opportunities to join free lessons and open-fly sessions. Nighttime kite flying keeps the spectacle going after sunset, while fireworks light up the sky on Saturday, November 21, starting at 10 p.m.
Little ones can try their hand at free kids’ sand sculpting and kite flying lessons on Saturday, November 21, and Sunday, November 22, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meet at the merchandise tent; sand buckets and tools are provided while supplies last.
Want to meet the artists before the festival begins? Attend the Meet the Masters kickoff event on Wednesday, November 18, from 6–8 p.m., at Waves Beach Bar at Bilmar Beach Resort. Admission to this separate event is $25 and includes hors d’oeuvres and sponsor beers.
This event is free and open to the public and all ages are welcome.
Things to Know Before You Go
Transportation & Parking Options
Sanding Ovations is a very popular event, so be sure to make a plan ahead of time.
Free Bus Shuttles
Free shuttle pickup locations include:
Treasure Bay: 10315 Paradise Boulevard.
Paradise Lutheran Church: 10255 Paradise Boulevard; weekends only, with the lot opening at 1 p.m. on Sundays.
The Club at Treasure Island: 400 Treasure Island Causeway. Park only in the green areas on The Club parking map.
Shuttle Hours:
Friday, November 20: 4–11 p.m., from Treasure Bay and The Club only.
Saturday, November 21: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Sunday, November 22, and Saturday–Sunday, November 28–29: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Shuttles run approximately every 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Waits may be longer at Madeira Beach Fundamental.
Sunset Beach Neighborhood Shuttles:
Shuttles operate during the same Saturday and Sunday hours listed above. Pickup locations are near the Beach Pavilion at Bay Shore Drive and 75th Avenue, and along West Gulf Boulevard at 77th–80th Terrace and 81st Avenue.
Ride the Beach Trolley
If you are staying at a hotel on one of our beaches, you can ride the Suncoast Beach Trolley to Treasure Island where the event will be held. The closest Suncoast Beach Trolley stops to Sanding Ovations are #7650 northbound and #7651 southbound.
If You Decide to Use Uber or Lyft
Drop-off and pick-up location is at City Hall (10451 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island).
Parking Within Walking Distance of Sanding Ovations
- Treasure Island Community Center (metered parking)
- Treasure Island Park ($30 event parking)
- St. Petersburg Municipal Beach (metered parking)
- Treasure Island City Hall (metered parking)
- Some privately owned lots will also be available nearby, all priced individually
Additional metered parking is available at Sunset Vista Lot, at 120th Avenue and Gulf Boulevard, and at 126th Avenue. Visitors parking there can request transportation through Free Beach Ride.
