A few weeks ago, we gathered for a special event: uncovering the many secrets lurking in Sandy Shores. The tour began at Phil & Isabel’s. After a quick group photo, we headed toward the town’s electrical substation. There, we learned how high-voltage power steps down for local use. However, questions quickly arose. Three transformers on the first pole sit unconnected. Meanwhile, two massive pylons run north with suspicious ambition for a town this small.

Next, we followed the north-eastern shoreline and examined derelict housing beside the Alamo Sea. Strangely, power still reaches parts of these ruins. We then discovered a barrel marked “1203” near the gas station. Later, we found another further north, perhaps once used to fuel boats in better times. As we moved through town, we passed the “Howdy Stranger” house. Soon after, we entered Sandy Shores’ slightly more prosperous district. There, a stone-chimney home connected twice to the power grid for no clear reason.

A Chinese restaurant impressed us from the outside, yet sadly we could not enter. Behind it, however, a well-hidden monkey mosaic rewarded sharp eyes. Across the street, the tattoo shop displayed a striking mural, whilst the house opposite seemed forgotten by the power company. Further north, we inspected a lattice-style cell tower and three enormous satellite dishes, which seemed ambitious for such limited demand.

Next, we reached the burnt house marked “There will be 8,” once home to Merle Abrahams. The stop reminded us of Sandy Shores’ darker lore. Along the way, we noted electrified breakwaters, a derelict fire station with a brand-new jukebox, and an abandoned motel that looks hastily vacated. There, we also found our next mosaic monkey. We continued to explore a lakeside boathouse with empty moorings and a fading “Save the Sands” pool. Roadside pits, likely evaporation ponds, suggest pollution control efforts.

The tour ended with one final monkey mosaic sighting. Then the cops swooped in, so we must have been onto something! To close the night, we enjoyed a fun playlist together.

You can find event photos below. Many thanks to Mathilya for contributing some lovely snaps. You can also browse more in #snapmatic on Discord. Thanks to everyone who joined us, and I already look forward to our next mystery tour!