Take advantage of the luminous southern California weather and hit some local beaches to enjoy a favorite California past time, beach volleyball. This sport originated in California, and since then has expanded worldwide. The 1920s construction of jetties in Santa Monica left large sandy areas, which were then easily converted into beach courts. With over 20 beaches to choose from, beach volleyball has become an iconic sport in California, with most beaches allowing public play and open nets. Here are the most popular recommended beaches for volleyball along Southern California's coast.
Recommended Beaches
Manhattan and Hermosa Beach - One of the most popular spots for tanning, surfing and beach volleyball. About 25 minutes west of Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach is dotted with open nets and is home to the annual Manhattan Beach Open, known as the "granddaddy of beach volley ball tournaments". This professional tournament is held annually in September and is part of the professional volleyball player's tour. This the best place to learn how to play or simply watch some locals battle it out in the sand. Adjacent Hermosa Beach is home to the Summer AVP Beach Opener, held August 6-9. During this tournament, Hermosa is packed with bars, bikinis, and lots of action. If you want to visit the home of beach volleyball, either Hermosa or Manhattan are they best place to join the culture of beach bums.
Santa Monica - Submerge your feet into the warm sand of Santa Monica Beach with some friends or join a pickup game and get in on the action. Parallel to this beach is a running path where locals indulge in the California rays while running, biking, or rollerblading. This busy beach is full of athletes ready to work out while catching some sun. Bathrooms and snack shacks are located along the beach's pathway and paid parking is available weekly, in addition to free street parking.
Will Rogers Beach - Located in Santa Monica off the Pacific Coast Highway, this beach is open to public beach volleyball play. You might recognize this beach from the Bay Watch series, as most of the filming was done at Will Rogers. Pets are banned from this beach, so leave your furry friends behind before hitting the sand courts. One of the more family-friendly beaches, Will Rogers has children's play area and free parking.
Venice Beach - This amusing boardwalk overflows with local artists, ice cream shops, fortune tellers, and numerous performers. Off the palm tree lined ocean front walk are open basketball courts and beach volley ball nets. Known for its eccentricities, this is a great place to enjoy an entertaining game of volleyball.
Beach Volleyball Resources
- • Local Guide to L.A beaches offering sand courts/contact information: www.beachcalifornia.com/beach-volleyball-california
- • Beach Volleyball Camp: www.beachvolleyballcamps.com
- • Tournaments for amateurs: www.vbventures.com
- • Professional Organizations: www.avp.com
- • Facebook Group: www.facebook.com
- • Fat Spike Beach Volleyball Blog: blog.fatspike.com/
- • Santa Monica Beach Volleyball Club: smbcvolleyball.com
- • South Bay Volleyball: www.southbayvolleyball.com
- • California Beach Volleyball Association (CBVA): www.cbva.com
