Stick Your Toes in the Sand for Sandfest 2026 in Port Aransas
Picture this: You. The beach. Maybe a drink in your hand. And thousands of beach-goers from around the globe hanging around at Texas Sandfest 2026, watching some of the best sandsculptors in the world create works of art under the Texas sun. For three days, you can enjoy the sun, the surf and the sand art competition on the beaches of Texas’ own Port Aransas. What began as a local beach festival in the 90s has blossomed into the modern-day Sandfest that beach enthusiasts from around the globe look forward to each year. But you don’t need to be a sun bum to enjoy everything that Texas Sandfest offers. From vendors to sand sculptures and live music to local bites, Texas Sandfest is truly a time to enjoy the beach, the gulf and the sunshine. Get ready for Texas Sandfest 2026!
When is Texas Sandfest? And how much does it cost?
Texas Sandfest takes place Friday- Sunday, April 17-19, 2026. Pre-festival activities will begin on Tuesday, April 14, and include merchandise sales, wristband sales and flag raising ceremony before the big event takes place.
Wristbands are $30 plus fees for adults and $5 for kids 6-12 plus fees when purchased online. Wristbands are good for all three days of the festival. One-day wristbands are not available.
What is there to do at Sandfest?
Besides see some of the top sand sculptors work their magic on the beaches of Port A, Sandfest offers a ton of fun the whole family can enjoy. Guests can shop and nosh on fair food. Kids will enjoy the kids corner, where they can hula hoop, get their faces painted and more. Plus kids can take sand-sculpting lessons and learn some of the tricks of the trade. There will also be some great photo ops throughout the festival and great live music, although this year’s line up has not yet been announced.
Where should I park when I attend Sandfest? And can I bring my pets?
There are plenty of spots to park at Sandfest, so where you want to park is up to you! There is a general Sandfest parking lot, plus there is plenty of beach parking if you have a beach-parking permit. There are also off-site lots with shuttles to take you back and forth from your car to the festival. Find more information about parking here.
Unfortunately, no pets are allowed at Sandfest, with the exception of service animals. Read the full policy here.
Port Aransas area lodging
If you are headed to Port A to enjoy Sandfest 2026 (or headed there any time of you simply to enjoy Port A!), be sure to make a reservation at Pioneer Beach RV Resort. Located in Port Aransas, Pioneer Beach features loads of top-notch amenities for you to enjoy your time soaking up the Texas sun. Rent golf carts on site, enjoy fantastic fishing, walk the beach or enjoy the pool and hot tub at Pioneer Beach RV Resort. Enjoy the laidback beach vibes at this cozy coastal RV park. Cheers!