Beloved ‘Sandcastle Man’ Bill Pavlacka Ends Nearly 20-Year Run at Hotel del Coronado
CORONADO, Calif. — For nearly two decades, Bill Pavlacka, affectionately known as the “Sandcastle Man,” transformed the sandy shores outside the historic Hotel del Coronado into a whimsical gallery of towering sand sculptures that drew crowds from across Southern California and beyond. Families posed for photos beside his intricate creations, couples chose his masterpieces as backdrops for engagements, and holiday visitors eagerly anticipated his next imaginative build. But on February 5, 2026, the hotel confirmed it had parted ways with Pavlacka, ending his nearly 20-year tenure on Coronado Beach.
In a statement provided to Fox News Digital, a Hotel del Coronado spokesperson said, “We can confirm that Hotel del Coronado and The Sandcastle Man have parted ways effective February 5. We wish The Sandcastle Man continued success.” The reasons behind the split have not been publicly detailed, but the decision marks the end of an era for the beloved artist and the community that cherished his work.
Pavlacka’s departure has sparked an outpouring of support on social media, where fans have expressed disappointment and encouragement for the artist’s next chapter. Despite the setback, Pavlacka has vowed to continue building sand sculptures elsewhere, promising to bring his unique artistry to new locations along California’s coastline.
The Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark managed by the National Park Service, has long been a centerpiece of Coronado’s tourism and cultural identity. Pavlacka’s sandcastles became an unofficial symbol of the beachfront’s charm, complementing the hotel’s Victorian architecture and scenic views. His departure leaves a void not only for visitors but also for local businesses that benefited from the increased foot traffic drawn to his creations.
Coronado Beach itself is part of a protected coastal ecosystem overseen by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which works to balance public enjoyment with environmental preservation. Pavlacka’s art, crafted from natural sand and water, had long been celebrated as an environmentally friendly attraction that enhanced the beach experience without harming the habitat.
Local officials and tourism advocates are now exploring ways to maintain the cultural vibrancy that Pavlacka helped cultivate. The California Department of Parks and Recreation highlights the importance of public art and community engagement in coastal areas, emphasizing that creative endeavors like Pavlacka’s contribute to the state’s rich coastal heritage.
Meanwhile, Pavlacka’s fans can follow his journey and upcoming projects through his social media channels and community events. His commitment to continuing his craft reflects a resilience that has defined his career, one built on passion, creativity, and a deep connection to the beach and its visitors.
As the sands shift beneath his feet, Bill Pavlacka’s legacy as the “Sandcastle Man” remains firmly etched in the hearts of those who have marveled at his ephemeral masterpieces along Coronado’s shores.
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