By Angela Lanza
The Vinik Family Foundation invites Tampa Bay to share in an interactive architectural installation that will bring a beach to downtown Tampa. Created by Snarkitecture, The Beach Tampa is a 15,000 sq. ft. immersive environment featuring an “ocean” of 1.2 million recyclable and antimicrobial white balls. Open to the public at no cost, The Beach Tampa begins Friday, August 5 and runs through Tuesday, August 25 at AMALIE Arena.
The beach will be staged in an all-white enclosure made of construction materials including scaffolding, wall panels, and perforated mesh, creating a sense of wonder and anticipation, while also recalling a boardwalk beach arcade. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to go for a “swim,” enjoy the view from the water’s edge or stroll along the pier. The shoreline will be a site of relaxation and activity, complete with a monochromatic beach hut, beach chairs, umbrellas and other beach activities for visitors. The 75-ft. wide shoreline opens up to a sea of balls enclosed within mirrored walls that will create an infinite reflected expanse.
“The Beach Tampa is an interactive and immersive installation that explores the boundaries between art and architecture while inspiring play and relaxation,” said Alex Mustonen, co-founder of Snarkitecture.
The white balls comprising the ocean are protected with GermBLOCK, a safe, powerful agent that provides antimicrobial protection for guests against 50 different germs and bacteria for the life of the balls.
The Beach Tampa is open to the public at no cost. Timed tickets are available to minimize wait times at ticketmaster.com. Free general admission tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis during all hours of operation at the McDonald’s Ticket Office at AMALIE Arena. Visitors can park for free at the South Regional Garage. To access free parking you must receive a parking voucher while attending The Beach Tampa to present upon exit from the lot.
Hours of Operation are Monday to Thursday from 12 Noon-8 p.m., Friday from 12 Noon-10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Beach Tampa is free with two ways to procure tickets. Visit TheBeachTampa.com or Ticketmaster.com to reserve a timed-entry ticket. No fees will apply for ticket charges and you must print at home.
Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www.thebeachtampa.com.
