The Incredible Gulf Coast Experience In Alabama Where You’ll Learn To Build Next-Level Sand Castles

It's turning out that the best water experience in Gulf Shores, Alabama, may just be one that you can have all year long. Sand Castle University instructors can teach you how to build spectacular sand castles and sculptures, no matter whether the water is warm or chilly. All you need besides water is sand, tools, and instruction.

While it's naturally a top spot for warm weather, Gulf Shores is a personal favorite during the cooler months when it's a bit less crowded. These sand castle classes are now on my bucket list - pun intended. Read on for why a visit to Sand Castle University in Gulf Shores, Alabama, should make your list, too.

People around Gulf Shores have grown accustomed to seeing spectacular sculptures emerge from their sparkling white sands, thanks to the custom sculpture work of Sand Castle University. Their team dubbed this one "King of the Gulf."

Gulf Shores native and Professional Sand Sculptor Janel Hawkins is the creative mind behind Sand Castle University. Hawkins trained in sand sculpting with another company before moving back to her hometown to launch her business.

People can book group and individual classes with Sand Castle University, whose team arrives at the location of your choice and sets up the site with everything you'll need.

Besides the buckets and shovels you'd expect, sand sculpting involves all kinds of brushes and smaller tools to shape the finer details.

Groups often create a cluster of castles for a more dramatic effect. If your crew is competitive, consider a contest.

These traditional castle structures are taught in the beginner 101 class for private groups of people of every age. More advanced 201 classes are offered to private groups of people age eight and older.

With enough training and practice, newbie sand sculptors can aspire to create their own next-level structures and creatures.

When was the last time you built a sand castle? Tell us about it! Better yet, let us know how you polished your skills with a class through Sand Castle University.

As interest grows, the team continues adding programs and classes, like seasonal pumpkin sculpting using biodegradable colored sand and a specialized sea creatures sculpting class. Visit Sand Castle University in Gulf Shores, Alabama, for booking information and Sand Castle University on Facebook for the latest news and pics of their team's creations. Unless you're lucky enough to live nearby, the beauty of the beach merits at least one overnighter. Consider one of the area's newest oceanfront options, The Lodge at Gulf State Park.