How well the sand holds up really depends on the type of substrate that you are putting it on top of. If it is a soft bottom, the sand will sink into it, but if it is hard clay, the bigger issue will be erosion...wave action and run-off rain water will move the sand about over time. No matter what you use, there will be a certain level of maintenance to keep an artificial beach together. Pea Gravel will hold up longer than sand, but mother nature will have her way with it as well.

I feel that beaches are best kept to a minimum, but if you're going to have one, you may want to consider pea gravel in the water, and sand on shore. Good luck.

Mike Robinson
Keystone Hatcheries