Sand Castle University Merges Beach Fun with Artistic Expression

R. Ken Cooper • June 29, 2023

Sand Castle University Unleashes Creativity on the Beach

Janel Hawkins, Sand Castle University Unleashes Creativity on the Beach

Gulf Shores, Ala. - (OBA) - Janel Hawkins, a local artist known for her stunning sand sculptures, has become a beloved figure in her community. Her work, which can be found on the beaches of Flora-Bama, Gulf Place, and Fort Morgan, has been captivating locals and tourists alike for years. Her creations, ranging from intricate sand castles to custom sculptures for special events, are a testament to her talent and creativity.


Hawkins owns Sand Castle University (SCU), a unique institution that has been a source of joy for both locals and regular visitors.  She started Sand Castle University in 2017. The SCU team, known for their spontaneous appearances, often leaves behind sand sculptures that become the talk of the town. They also offer classes for children and adults, teaching them how to express their artistic side using nothing but sand, water, and a bit of imagination.


Recently, Sand Castle University has expanded its staff to cater to more visitors and host more group events. They now offer custom sculptures for a variety of occasions, including weddings, local events, and birthday parties. Hawkins' work has garnered media attention, with multiple features on TV shows and local news.


For those seeking a unique and memorable beach experience, Sand Castle University encourages people to follow them on
Facebook. Their website, https://sandcastleu.com/, offers a gallery showcasing some of Hawkins and the SCU team's remarkable creations.

Jamel Hawkins Sand Castle University Gulf Shores

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