With a concept formulated in 1991, the 1st Annual East Hampton Sand Castle Contest, took place on August 26, 1992 at the Atlantic Avenue Beach in Amagansett, NY. The mission of The Clamshell Foundation is to enrich the lives of the people of the East End by fostering education in health, cultural, and environmental fields of endeavor. The money raised is allocated to year round residents for scholarships, food banks and assistance to those in need.

Initially there weren’t any rules, but over the years it became clear that a few were needed. Such as only indigenous materials may be used in the final sand sculptor, no power tools are allowed and you can’t build in front of the Lifeguard stands or go into the dunes.

Groups were established so children weren’t competing against adults. The size of each group was limited to 6 so there wasn’t one person competing against a group of 20. From the very beginning $10 was charged for each group and it remains that way today with no charge for the spectators. It is one of our favorite days of the year and we hope to see you at the contest this year!