9 photos of spectacular sand sculptures in Coney Island this weekend

Turtles, SpongeBob, Barbie and even a hot dog served as muses for the savvy sand sculptors at this weekend's annual Coney Island Sand Sculpting Competition. Artists and amateurs of all ages vied for cash prizes at the 31st annual contest this Saturday on the beach. 

In case you missed it, here are nine photos of the stunning sand art that you'll have to see to believe. Plus, if you haven't made it to Coney Island yet this summer, we've got a guide for your visit. 

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1. This Barbie loves Coney Island 

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

2. A classic sand castle

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

3. Turtley awesome 

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

4. The artist at work 

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

5. SpongeBob SandPants

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

6. A work in progress

Photograph: Courtesy of Alliance for Coney Island

7. This mermaid makes a splash

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A post shared by Jim McDonnell (@coneyislandjim)

8. This octopus is tentacool 

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A post shared by Rita Margarita (@rashashon)

9. View from the beach

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A post shared by Coney Island (@coneyislandfun)