Sand Labyrinths Made Famous on National TV Return to Central Oregon Coast's Florence

Published 09/22/25 at 6:25 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Florence, Oregon) - Get ready for a unique central Oregon coast experience as Circles in the Sand returns to Florence on October 18 and 19. This free annual event transforms Heceta Beach into a canvas of walkable labyrinths and intricate sand art, created by beach artist Denny Dyke and his team of volunteers. The site is located next to Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center.

Dyke, whose elaborate work was previously featured on the CBS Evening News, begins drawing at 3:00 p.m. each day. Public walkthroughs start at 5:00 p.m., timed with a low tide at 3:13 p.m. and sunset around 6:30 p.m. Local artists will enhance the scene with arrangements of shells, driftwood, and other natural elements.

Dyke and his crew are behind the yearly sand labyrinths in Bandon.

New this year is a kite exhibition featuring Rod and Cindy Thrall, a husband-and-wife team known for their colorful and acrobatic kite displays. Lon Beale, also known as Dr. Dune and owner of Sand Master Sandboarding, said the addition will make this year’s event even more memorable. A vendor area at Driftwood Shores will offer sandboards, apparel, and local artwork.

"This is going to be spectacular,” said Beale.

Get ready to do the "Shuttle Shuffle," so to speak. To ease congestion near the beach, organizers have arranged a free shuttle service from Grocery Outlet at 2066 Highway 101. Shuttles will run from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Additional transportation is available through Link Lane, with affordable routes connecting Eugene, Yachats, and Florence. All shuttles drop off at Grocery Outlet for convenient access to the beach. Details are available at Link-Lane.org.

Bettina Hannigan, president and CEO of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, called the event inspiring and one-of-a-kind.

Courtesy Circles in the Sand

“People come from all over. It’s wildly artistic. Many find it spiritually uplifting. It is incredibly unique among beach events anywhere in the country,” Hannigan said.

See Florence Weather - Florence Oregon Virtual Tour, Map

Terry Hankins, marketing director at Driftwood Shores, described Circles in the Sand as an annual pilgrimage for both locals and visitors. FlorenceFun.com

Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Florence Oregon Virtual Tour, Map

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