Big Corona beach awash in sand, water and creativity during annual sandcastle contest

The People's Choice Award-Best Creation and Commodores Award-Best Creation went to "Sea Lion Castle" by B.C. & Friends.

Oct. 2, 2024 4:43 PM PT

Cruisin’ the Coast was the theme this year for the 62nd annual Newport Beach Sandcastle Contest presented Sunday by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, where 19 teams vied for awards and bragging rights.

The event at Big Corona beach also attracted hundreds of spectators and included amplified music, hot dogs and snacks.

The award for Best Display of Theme went to Doggie Walk Bags, which was also the T-shirt sponsor this year as part of the participant T-shirt giveaway.

Best Display of Theme went to Doggie Walk Bags' team, "Crusin' Canines," led by Chris Crosson.

“Our take on ‘Cruisin’ the Coast’ was ‘Cruisin’ Canines,’ with dogs driving a classic VW bug and another skateboarding,” said Sand Castle Kit creator Chris Crosson, whose effort this year was a family affair. “The good news is everyone had a good time and we are all still talking to each other.”

The South Coast Educational Primadonnas took home Most Humorous award for the second time.

The Most Humorous award in the sandcastle contest went to the "Tom Cruisin' the Coast" fighter jet.

“This is our 38th year entering the Sandcastle Contest, making us the longest running [participant]. We just keep coming back,” said Mark Borgeson. “We’re mostly teachers from South Orange County along with friends, family and neighbors, and [if] anyone stands around too long we’re putting them to work.”

B.C. & Friends took home two awards, the People’s Choice-Best Creation, and Commodores Club-Best Creation for their intricate “Sea Lion Castle,” surrounded by sea lions.