Sand Castle Lesson FAQ
What is a sand castle lesson?
Of course, there's no 'wrong' way to make a sand castle, it is after all about having fun! What we do is teach the methods that professional sand sculptors use, and most people find it quite eye opening. I'll take you step by step through a process that will help you make a professional looking sand castle. You won't be a pro after a single lesson! But you'll have the knowledge you need to get started. Some people enjoy lessons as a one time, or once in a while, experience. For others, it's the beginning of a new hobby or passion that they pursue on their own. Though most of the time we will be making castles, the techniques we cover will translate to any subject matter you want to pursue.
How do I book a lesson? How far in advance should I book?
To book a lesson, please give Emerson a call or text at (269) 267-6903, or send him an email with the dates you're interested in at emersonschreiner@gmail.com. Most people book a week or 2 in advance, but you are welcome to book much earlier. I can't always accommodate same day lesson requests, but I do try. If you're looking for a last minute sand castle lesson, please call or text me (269) 267-6903.
Where do we meet?
With some possible exceptions, I can meet you at the Galveston beach of your choice. In most cases it's easiest to meet directly on the beach. Look for the guy wearing a pith helmet with a big stack of buckets.
What do I need to bring?
I will provide all of the equipment for the lesson, but if you have your own things, please feel free to bring them! Otherwise, just bring what you need to feel comfortable at the beach. Make sure to wear something that you don't mind getting sandy!
How much do lessons cost? What type of payments do you accept?
For groups of up to 10, 2 hour lessons are $220. Price is PER GROUP, not per person. In most situations, 2 hours is a good amount of time. 1 hour lessons are only available along the Seawall for groups of 4 or fewer. If the lesson goes longer than we planned, I will not charge you for extra time. I can take cash, Venmo (@Emerson-Schreiner), paypal (emersonschreiner@gmail.com) or cashapp ($EmersonSchreiner). With some exceptions, you are not required to make a prepayment. If you have a larger group, please email me for a quote.
Do you have any cheaper options?
Yes! Every Saturday throughout the summer, I give free sand castle lessons at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm at East Beach (make sure to take the 2nd entrance!), thanks to the generosity of the Galveston Park Board. You can find me down by the water, straight from the pavilion. Come early, and you can watch me make the welcome castle.
Will you come to Bolivar? Surfside?
Yes, if my schedule allows I can often make the trip to both Bolivar and Surfside, though it is more challenging in peak season. A 2 hour lesson is $270 in these locations. If you're in Bolivar, consider booking with Ashore Venture to get deals on other services they offer.
Do you sell tools and equipment on the beach?
Yes, I can sell you everything that's available on our online shop in person, but please let me know ahead of time if you're interested in buying something. If you decide last minute that you'd like to keep the pastry knives we use I can usually sell you a few used ones at a discount.
Is it customary to tip?
Tips are not expected, but always appreciated :) If you had a good time, another great way to show your appreciation is to leave us a review on Tripadvisor, Yelp, or Google.