Contestants from all over the United States gathered Wednesday for the 23rd annual Sandcastle Building Contest in Belmar.

Some participants said they were looking to the sand for inspiration, while others knew exactly what they wanted to build. One group constructed an Aztec temple, one an alligator head and a third group crafted an octopus.

Beachgoers said the perfect weather helped make the competition a success.

For video from 23rd Annual New Jersey Sandcastle Contest in Belmar, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.