Circles in the Sand in Florence, Oregon
Experience Giant Beach Labyrinths on the Oregon Coast
CIRCLES IN THE SAND IN FLORENCE, OREGON
Every October, Heceta Beach becomes the largest art gallery in Oregon and admission is free.
The only catch? The Pacific Ocean erases it before the next tide.
Each fall, thousands of visitors gather in Florence, Oregon, to experience Circles in the Sand, a remarkable event featuring giant hand-drawn beach labyrinths and intricate sand art created during the season's lowest tides. Unlike traditional art exhibits, these masterpieces are meant to be explored from the inside, making visitors part of the artwork itself.
Whether you're planning an Oregon Coast getaway or searching for unique things to do in Florence this fall, Circles in the Sand is an unforgettable experience.
What is Circles in the Sand?
Created by internationally recognized beach artist Denny Dyke, Circles in the Sand transforms Heceta Beach into an enormous walkable work of art.
Using only simple tools, careful planning, and thousands of footsteps, Dyke and a team of volunteers create massive labyrinths stretching hundreds of feet across the sand.
Within hours, the tide returns, washing every design away.
That's part of what makes the experience so memorable as no two events are ever exactly alike.
Why People Love It
Circles in the Sand is more than beautiful artwork.
Visitors come to:
- Walk through giant beach labyrinths
- Watch live sand art come to life
- Enjoy Oregon Coast scenery
- Capture incredible photographs
- Spend time together outdoors
- Experience a tradition that exists for only a few hours
Plan Your Visit
Location
Heceta Beach near Driftwood Shores Resort & Conference Center
When
Typically held during October. Dates are announced annually based on the best tides.
Admission
Free.
Parking
Parking near the beach is limited. Shuttle service is often available from designated locations in Florence.
Accessibility
Circles in the Sand continues to become more accessible each year through Mobi-Mats and David's Chair, allowing more visitors to experience the artwork firsthand.
Bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Layers
- Camera
- Sunscreen
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Circles in the Sand?
Typically in October during the best low tides.
Where is it held?
Heceta Beach in Florence, Oregon.
Is it free?
Yes.
Is it family friendly?
Absolutely.
Is it accessible?
Yes. Mobi-Mats and David's Chair help make the event accessible for more visitors.
Make It a Florence Getaway
Many visitors come for Circles in the Sand and stay for the weekend.
While you're here, explore:
- Historic Old Town Florence
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
- Sea Lion Caves
- Heceta Head Lighthouse
- Sand Master Park
- Florence's restaurants, breweries and local shops
Autumn is one of Florence's best seasons, with fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures and spectacular sunsets. It's the perfect time to discover why Florence is known as Oregon's Coastal Playground.
