Beloved Sandcastle Sculptor Banned From San Diego Luxury Hotel

Hotel cites 'political messages' in artist's work as reason for dismissal after 20 years

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A beloved sandcastle sculptor named Bill Pavlacka has been banned from working outside the historic Hotel del Coronado in San Diego County after 20 years, with the hotel citing 'political messages' in his artwork as the reason. Pavlacka claims he was told to leave his spot after using a Mark Twain quote in one of his sandcastle creations, which the hotel deemed unacceptable.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic expression and corporate interests, as well as the challenges faced by independent artists working on private property. The ban on Pavlacka has sparked outrage among locals who have long enjoyed his sandcastle creations, raising questions about the limits of free speech and the role of businesses in regulating public spaces.

The details

According to Pavlacka, he was previously warned about using phrases like 'I love democracy' and 'I love freedom of speech' in his sandcastle art, but the Twain quote was 'the last straw.' The hotel also accused him of drinking on the job and requested to inspect his cooler, though Pavlacka denied these allegations. The hotel later sent Pavlacka a letter addressing his 'conduct that violated policies,' which included prohibitions on 'political or controversial messages' and 'consumption of alcohol on property.'

  • Pavlacka has been creating sandcastle art in the same location for nearly 20 years.
  • He was banned from the hotel's property on February 5, 2026.

The players

Bill Pavlacka

A beloved sandcastle sculptor, known as 'The Sandcastle Man,' who has created art in the same spot outside the Hotel del Coronado for nearly 20 years.

Hotel del Coronado

A historic luxury beachfront hotel in Coronado, California, that owns the section of beach where Pavlacka had been working.

Nick

A manager at the Hotel del Coronado who confronted Pavlacka and told him to leave the property.

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What they’re saying

“I couldn't believe it. I was just thinking in my head, what is this about? I love doing my art. This is what I do. It's fun and people appreciate it.”

— Bill Pavlacka, Sandcastle Sculptor (Coronado Times)

“Bill is hardworking and quiet and never have we ever seen him drinking. This is a huge loss for the people of San Diego, and everyone loves the Sandcastle Man. Bring him back and appreciate the joy it brings people from all over the world.”

— Kimberly Weed (Coronado Times)

“There is nothing controversial, much less offensive, about a quote from one of America's greatest authors about the importance of truth and objective reality in our nation's civic life.”

— Ken Fitzgerald (Coronado Times)

What’s next

The hotel has not indicated whether it will reconsider its decision to ban Pavlacka from the property. Local residents and supporters of the artist are calling for his return, but the hotel has not directly addressed the controversy.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and corporate interests, as well as the challenges faced by independent artists working on private property. The ban on Pavlacka has sparked a debate about the limits of free speech and the role of businesses in regulating public spaces, raising questions about the importance of preserving creative outlets and community traditions.