Giant Sand Sculptures and Inflatable Octopuses Are Taking Over the Gold Coast

Spotting strange sights is all part of a trip to the Gold Coast — however, giant sand versions of beloved animated figures and over-sized, inflatable octopuses aren't normally within view. But this month, they are. In fact, they're two of the highlights of the tourist hotspot's latest event: Sand Safari.

As the name suggests, the free three-week celebration sings the praises of the one substance (well, other than sun and surf) that the Gold Coast has plenty of. Expect more sand sculptures than you can shake a shovel at, and a different take on street art as well.

Those keen on the former will find 22 mini sculptures scattered across the coast — but that's not all. The main drawcard is the 2016 Australian Sand Sculpting Championships, which will take place from February 12 to 14. Over the course of three days, ten talented folk will carve ten tonnes of sand into giant creations. And because everything has to have a theme, they're not just fashioning any old over-sized sand statuettes — they're making granular versions of DreamWorks' beloved animated characters.

Other than large amounts of tiny grains, the event also boasts the latest in giant inflatable street art and urban interventions from international artists Filthy Luker & Pedro Estrellas. If you remember the hefty blow-up squid that appeared at Currumbin back in 2014, then you're familiar with their work. Prepare for more massive sea monsters in the Cavill Avenue Mall and at both the Islander and the Soul Hotels. And remember: they don't call their pieces "art attacks" for no reason.

Sand Safari runs until February 28, with the 2016 Australian Sand Sculpting Championships taking place from February 12 to 14. For more information, visit the event website.

Image: Filthy Luker.