South County’s Sand Sculptures Tease the Return of Atlantis RIsing

A summer drive through South County already comes with its fair share of roadside distractions: beach traffic, ferry lines, seafood signs, and the sudden urge to pull over for something fried. This year, visitors have two new reasons to stop and stare. A giant squid in Galilee and a great white shark at Misquamicut Beach have surfaced along the coast, giving beachgoers a playful preview of the Atlantis RIsing International Sand Sculpture Competition, which returns June 25–27, 2027, at Ninigret Park in Charlestown.

The sculptures, commissioned by the South County Tourism Council, mark the countdown to the event’s return after a one-year hiatus. During the break, the Council focused on beautification and site improvements at Ninigret Park, setting the stage for a bigger experience when master sand sculptors arrive next summer.

Across from the Block Island Ferry terminal in Galilee, a giant squid sculpture brings a little deep-sea drama to the waterfront. Internationally recognized sand sculptor Justin Gordon created the piece, blending fine art, design, and large-scale storytelling into a creature that feels right at home near the boats, gulls, and salty pre-ferry shuffle.

At Misquamicut Beach, across from the Windjammer, a great white shark sculpture adds a toothy little thrill to a classic beach day. John Gowdy, a world-renowned sand sculptor with more than three decades of international experience, created the piece. A retired Atlantic City Fire Department captain, Gowdy has sculpted around the world, including at the Vatican for Pope Francis and on the beaches of Normandy for commemorative D-Day works.

“These sculptures are our way of reminding people that Atlantis RIsing is coming back bigger and better than ever,” says South County Tourism Council President Louise Bishop. “We took a year to invest in making Ninigret Park even more beautiful, and we’re excited to welcome some of the world’s best sand sculptors back to South County next June.”

The 2027 competition will bring artists from around the world to transform ordinary sand into intricate works of art, with live sculpting demonstrations, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and plenty of chances to watch the process unfold. For now, the squid and shark are already waiting along the coast, making them easy add-ons to a ferry trip, beach day, or South County wander. For more information and the latest updates, visit southcountyri.com.