Thousands of people turned out on Saturday to enjoy a fun and sun-filled day on Bettystown beach as the 22^nd annual National Sandcastle Competition transformed the coastline into a vibrant celebration of sand art.

Participants of all ages built everything from grand castles to playful sea creatures, drawing admiration from spectators and judges alike.

Organisers hailed the day a resounding success. “The talent was incredible, the sun was shining, and the atmosphere was great” a spokesperson said.

“A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors: The Cottages Ireland, Gilna’s Cottage Inn, Meath County Council, BIM-FLAG, Drogheda Credit Union – East Meath Branch, Aldi, The Beach Wardens, Cllr Sharon Tolan & Maria White, and Pats Supermarket Laytown.

2025 Winners

Under 5 Category:
Liam Brady – Octopus Castles (Mornington)
Quinn, Minnie, Callie – Porcupine (Bettystown)
Lea Conway – Whale (Mornington)

Under 8 Category:
Robyn O'Reagon & Julie Strong – Team Work (Laytown & Bellewstown)
Emma McCourt – Castle (Bettystown)
Sean McDonagh – SpongeBob (Bettystown)

Under 13 Category:
Thomas Keating – Car (Mornington)
Emma McLoughlin – Turtle (Trim)
Liam & David Wilkanson – Tara Brooch (Bettystown)

Family Category:
Ivan, Maria, Victoria – Ireland’s Marine World (Ukraine)
The Keatings – 4-Tiered Castle (Mornington)
The Mooneys – Hogwarts (Dublin)

Junior Sculpture Category:
Ollie Ofmanis – Patrick Star (Drogheda)
Daisy, Joy, Kathleen, Amy, Helena – SpongeBob House (Laytown)
Sean & Adam – Lost Pyramid (Bettystown)

Senior Sculpture Category:
Shauna & Rachel – Whale (Donnycarney)
Ieve Ofmane – Kitten in Bucket (Drogheda)
Rebecca & Robyn Wogan – Bettystown Temple (London)