Present embodiments are directed to features for maintaining or providing a beach area (10, 100) that is adjacent a water feature (12, 30) and that includes beach surface material (20, 110) disposed in one or more containment structures (16) such that a multi-colored or illuminated beach surface is provided. Present embodiments may include multiple containment structures (16) arrayed in an area (10, 100) adjacent a water feature (12, 30), wherein each containment structure holds beach surface material (20, 110) of a different color. Further, present embodiments may include creating and/or distributing iridescent and/or phosphorescent beach surface material (20, 110) in one or more containment structures (16) that define the beach area (10, 100). Additionally, present embodiments may include adjustable or attachable barrier extensions (42) to facilitate maintenance. Further, present embodiments may include transparent or translucent beach surface material (20, 110) disposed in one or more containment structures (16) and a lighting system (106, 206) under the beach surface materials.