9 best beach sports to play on the beach

What sports do you play on the beach?

The beach is one of the best places to exercise. You can swim, play football, volleyball and beach volleyball. But there are many more sports you can play on the beach. In this article I will tell you all about the sports you can play on the beach and where you can play them.

Beachsport: a world of sand and sports fun

Beach sports is a broad concept that revolves around sports on the beach, in which sand plays an important role. The great thing about beach sports is that there is a suitable sport for every age and every level. In addition, most of these sports are relatively cheap and accessible. The sand provides an additional challenge, as it affects the movement and speed of the players. This leads to a greater training stimulus and a positive effect on the condition. In addition, the sand is a soft surface, so that the load on the joints is less than with sports on a hard surface.

The diversity of beach sports

There are countless sports that fall under the category of beach sports. In addition to the well-known examples such as beach volleyball and beach football, there are also lesser-known sports such as beach handball, sandball and flying disc. Some of these sports are played in pairs, while others are individual or team disciplines. As a result, there is a suitable beach sport for every sports enthusiast.

Beach sports in the Netherlands

Beach sports have become increasingly popular in the Netherlands in recent years. A good example of this is the beach stadium in The Hague, where various beach sports can be practiced. This stadium is located on the beach of Scheveningen and offers space for various activities, such as beach volleyball, beach soccer and beach handball. There are also indoor beach parks, such as the Indoor Beach Center in The Hague, where you can enjoy beach sports on a sandy surface all year round.

Beach sport for schools and associations

Beach sports are also increasingly attracting the attention of schools and sports clubs. It is an interesting way to introduce young people to different sports and to make them enthusiastic about an active lifestyle. Moreover, it is a nice change from the regular gym classes and training sessions.

Beach Volleyball: The ultimate beach game

Beach volleyball is perhaps the best known and most common game on the beaches worldwide. It is a challenging and fun variation of the original volleyball, but on the sand. It is a sport where you play against each other in pairs or in teams. The aim is to pass the ball over the net and score against the opponents.

The rules of the game

The rules of beach volleyball are quite simple. Each player may hit the ball up to three times before it goes over the net. You are not allowed to catch or throw the ball, but only play with a kind of punching movement. The first team to reach 21 points with a difference of at least 2 points wins the set. Usually played in a best-of-three format, with the first team to win two sets winning the match.

Why beach volleyball is so popular

Beach volleyball is a sport that you can play with almost anyone. It does not matter whether you are very sporty or just a beginner, everyone can participate and have fun. In addition, it is a sport that you can play on almost any beach, without needing a lot of equipment. All you need is a ball and a net.

Tips for beginners

If you want to try beach volleyball, here are some tips to get you started:

• Choose a quiet spot on the beach to play so you have enough room to move and dive without disturbing others.
• Try playing with a softer ball first so you can get used to the feel and style of play.
• Practice passing, serving and smashing before playing a match.
• Play with people of your own level so you can learn and improve together.
• Don't forget to have fun and enjoy the game!

Beach volleyball as a social activity

Pro tips for every sport

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Beach volleyball is not only a sport, but also a great way to enjoy the beach with friends and family. It's a game where you work together, encourage each other and meanwhile enjoy the sun and the sand. So what are you waiting for? Gather your friends, grab a ball and hit the beach for a game of beach volleyball!

Beachball: the ultimate beach game

Beachball is a super fun and accessible game that you can play on the beach. It is a mix of beach volleyball and tennis, where you play with special rackets and a ball. It is one of the most famous games on beaches all over the world and guarantees hours of fun.

The necessities

You don't need much to play beachball. All you need are:

• Two rackets: These are usually made of wood or plastic and have a short handle.
• A ball: This can be a soft foam ball or a somewhat harder rubber ball, depending on your preference.
• A beach: sand is of course an important part of beachball, so find a nice spot on the beach.

Beachball for everyone

The great thing about beachball is that it is suitable for everyone, regardless of age or sporting background. You can play it as quietly or intensively as you want. In addition, it is a great way to work on your fitness, because you are constantly on the move. Moreover, playing on sand is a lot less stressful for your joints than, for example, running on a hard surface.

Tips for a successful game of beachball

To get the most out of your beachball experience, here are a few more tips:

• Try to keep the ball as high as possible so you have more time to react.
• Adjust your strokes to the weather: with a lot of wind it is wise to keep the ball a bit lower.
• Play with several people: make teams and hold a beachball tournament for extra fun.
• Bring an extra ball in case you lose or break one.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your friends, grab your rackets and ball and go play a game of beachball on the beach!

Turnball: fun for everyone on the beach

Turnball is a simple and accessible game for everyone, regardless of age or ability. It is played with a ball and a pole that the ball is attached to with a rope. The rules are simple: hit the ball around the post and try to outsmart your opponent by making the ball out of reach for him or her. You can play the game one-on-one or in teams, making it perfect for a fun day at the beach.

Why Turnball is so much fun

Turnball is a game where you can develop both your motor skills and your strategic insight. Moreover, it is a free activity that you can do at any beach. You only need a turnball set, which you can easily take with you and set up. The game can be played on both sand and grass, and even in shallow water for added challenge and fun.

Different ways to play Turnball

Depending on the number of players and the available space, you can play different types of Turnball. Here are a few possible variants:

• Individual: hit the ball around the post and try to beat your own record.
• Doubles: Play in teams of two and alternate after each turn.
• Time-bound: set a time limit and try to score as many points as possible within that time.

Turnball compared to other beach sports

Turnball is a relatively quiet sport compared to, for example, beach soccer, beach rugby or ultimate frisbee. It is less intensive and has a lower risk of injury, making it ideal for a relaxing day at the sea. Yet it offers enough challenge and fun to keep you entertained for hours.

Where can you find Turnball on the beach?

Turnball is a sport that you can find on many beaches, especially in the summer months. In some cities and towns, special Turnball areas are even created by the municipal services. But of course you can also just bring your own set and find a spot on the beach to play.

In short, Turnball is a fun and accessible sport for anyone who wants to enjoy a fun day at the beach. So grab your ball and pole and get to work!

Beach rugby: a sport for everyone

Beach rugby is a fun and active sport that you can play on the sand with a group of friends or family. It is a variant of traditional rugby, but played on the beach. This often makes it a bit easier and more accessible for everyone, regardless of experience or age.

The gamerules

In beach rugby, the players are divided into two teams. The object of the game is to get the ball over the opponent's back line, scoring points through a so-called 'conversion' or 'penalty kick'. As in traditional rugby, you are only allowed to pass the ball backwards and you must try to break through the opponent's defences.

Tips for a successful beach rugby experience

• Provide a spacious playing field so that there is enough room for everyone to run and play.
• Use clear markings for the side and back lines so that everyone knows where the boundaries of the playing field are.
• Play with a soft rugby ball to make the game safer for all participants.
• Take regular breaks to hydrate and rest, especially on hot days.
• Keep the game light and recreational so everyone can enjoy the experience.

Other beach sports to try

In addition to beach rugby, there are many other sports that you can practice on the beach, such as:

• Beach volleyball or beach volleyball: a popular variant of indoor sport, played on the sand.
• Beach tennis: a combination of tennis and beach volleyball, where you use a bat and a small ball.
• Frisbee: a fun and simple sport where you throw a frisbee to your fellow players.
• Kite flying: a relaxing activity where you fly a kite and let it float on the wind.
• Skimboarding: a sport in which you glide over the water on a small board, close to the shoreline.
• Swimming: of course you can always take a refreshing dip in the sea to cool off and enjoy the water.

So what are you waiting for? Gather up your friends and family, grab a ball and hit the beach for a game of beach rugby or one of the many other beach sports you can try. Have fun!

Beach football: A summer spectacle

In beach soccer you can put together teams of about 5 players, including the goalkeeper. So you can already play a game of beach football with a small group of friends. The idea is to play the ball with your feet, body and head, just like regular football. An exception is that in beach soccer you can also play the ball with your hands, but only if you are in your own area and your goalkeeper is.

The rules of beach soccer have been adopted from FIFA and apply to both national and international competitions. However, some adjustments have been made to make the game more compatible with playing on sand. For example, there are no free kicks and you are not allowed to return the ball to the keeper.

Competitions and events

Beach soccer is becoming more and more popular and there are more and more competitions and events that you can participate in. In the Netherlands, for example, several beach soccer tournaments are organized every year. There are also competitions at an international level, such as the European championship and the beach soccer world championship. Portugal are currently the reigning world champions, having won in the final of the latter tournament.

Where can you play beach soccer?

Of course you can always play a game of beach football on the beach yourself. In the summer months, special beach fields have often been constructed on the beaches of the Netherlands, which you can use for free. In some cities there are even municipal services that take care of the construction of these fields. If you don't have a beach nearby, you can also look for an indoor beach hall where you can play beach soccer.

Tips for playing beach soccer

• Play barefoot to avoid injury and to move better on the sand.
• Practice your technical skills such as dribbling, passing and shooting to improve your game.
• Try to work together with your teammates and communicate well to support each other.
• Enjoy the game and the fun on the beach!

So kick off your football boots, step onto the sand and have a great time with your friends over a game of beach football!

Ultimate Frisbee: A breath of fresh air on the beach

Ultimate Frisbee is a relatively new sport that has become increasingly popular in recent years, both on the beach and on grass fields. It is a team sport where you play with a frisbee (also known as a flying disc). The object of the game is to catch the Frisbee in the opponent's goal area. The nice thing about this sport is that it is a combination of different sports such as handball, football and rugby, but with a Frisbee instead of a ball.

The simple rules of Ultimate Frisbee

The rules of Ultimate Frisbee are quite simple and easy to follow, making it an accessible sport for everyone. Here is an overview of the basic rules:

• There are two teams of 5 to 7 players per team.
• You are not allowed to walk with the Frisbee in your hands; so you have to throw it to a teammate.
• If the Frisbee falls to the ground or is intercepted by the opposing team, possession is for the other side.
• Points are scored by catching the Frisbee in the opponent's goal area.

Why Play Ultimate Frisbee on the Beach?

Ultimate Frisbee is an ideal sport to play on the beach because of its many benefits:

• The soft sand provides a lower impact on your joints and makes falling less painful.
• The beach offers plenty of room to run and dive without worrying about obstacles.
• The frisbee is light and easy to take to the beach.
• It's a fun way to be active and enjoy the sun and water at the same time.

Equipment and clubs

You don't need much equipment for Ultimate Frisbee. The most important thing is of course a Frisbee, but other than that you only need sportswear and possibly shoes or socks suitable for the sand. There are now several clubs and associations that you can join to practice this sport. But of course you can also just take a Frisbee to the beach with a group of friends and play a game.

So, are you looking for a new, challenging and fun sport to play on the beach? Then give Ultimate Frisbee a chance and discover for yourself why more and more people are embracing this sport!

Discover water walking: an emerging beach activity

Water walking is a relatively new sport that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a fun and accessible activity that you can do with a group of friends or family. The idea is simple: you walk or run through the shallow water along the shore, trying to pass a ball to your teammates and eventually get it into the opponent's goal area. It's kind of like a cross between beach soccer and ultimate frisbee, but in the water.

Waterwalking originated on the coast of Dunkirk, where a group of friends were looking for a new way to have fun on the beach. They started playing a kind of beach soccer, but soon found that it was much more fun to run through the water and pass. This is how water walking was born.

The benefits of water walking

Water walking has many benefits, including:

• It is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that strengthens your circulation and improves your endurance.
• It is a low impact sport, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
• It's a social activity that you can do with a group of friends or family, making it a fun way to be active together.
• It is a sport that you can play for free, as you don't need any special equipment or material other than a ball and a marked goal area.

Safety and preparation

Although water walking is a relatively safe sport, it is wise to observe some safety precautions:

• Always be supervised by an adult or someone with water walking experience.
• Wear a life jacket or make sure there is a life buoy nearby in case you end up in deeper water.
• Be aware of the tide and wind, and make sure the conditions are right for water walking.

How do you start water walking?

If you're interested in water walking, follow these steps to get started:

1. Gather a group of friends or family members interested in trying this new sport.
2. Find a suitable location along the coast, preferably with shallow water and a sandy beach.
3. Mark a target area at both ends of the playing field, for example with sticks or cones.
4. Divide the group into two teams and start passing the ball to your teammates while walking or running through the water.
5. Try to get the ball into the opponent's goal area while dodging the competitors.

Water walking is a fun and challenging beach activity that is growing in popularity. Give it a try for yourself and discover why so many people are embracing this emerging sport.

Discover the adventurous world of beach canoeing

Canoeing is a versatile water sport that you can practice both at sea and on rivers and estuaries. It is a sport that tests your effort and balance while enjoying the water and nature around you. In addition, canoeing strengthens your muscles and is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that improves your circulation.

Canoeing together with friends or family

Canoeing is a sport that you can do alone or in a group. If you enjoy exercising with others, take your friends or family for a day of canoeing on the beach. You can also take group excursions at clubs and associations, where you can benefit from professional guidance to enjoy the sport to the fullest.

Sea canoeing: a challenging variant

If you like adventure and are willing to cover a greater distance, sea canoeing might be for you. This form of canoeing is practiced along the coast, for example from Dunkirk. Please note that the estimated distance and effort required are greater than water walking.

Safety first: take the right measures

Before you go on the water, it is wise to prepare well and take the necessary safety measures. Inquire at the nautical port office or the first aid station about current weather conditions and make sure you are supervised. Always wear a life jacket and bring a life buoy. Take the tide and wind into account so that you have favorable conditions for canoeing.

Create your own canoe adventure

Canoeing is a sport that you can practice in different ways. Choose the variant that suits you best and put together your own canoe adventure. Whether you want a gentle trip on a river or a challenging sea canoe trip, canoeing on the beach offers something for everyone.

Stand-up paddle: an accessible water sport for everyone

Stand-up paddle, also known as SUP or water walking, is a water sport where you stand on a board and propel yourself with a paddle. It is a sport that has grown in popularity in recent years. The great thing about paddle boarding is that it is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or sporting background. You just need water, a board, a paddle and some basic equipment to get started.

Benefits of supping

SUP is not only a fun way to be active on the water, it is also good for your body. You train your entire body, especially your core, thighs and arms. In addition, it is a good cardiovascular exercise that stimulates your blood circulation. It is recommended to always paddle under supervision and to take safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket and using a life buoy.

SUP with a group or with the family

You can do SUP alone, but it is also a fun activity to do with a group or with your family. There are clubs and teams you can join to paddle together. You can also participate in events where you compete in teams in different games on the SUP.

Where can you sup?

You can actually paddle board anywhere there is water, but it is best along the coast or on a lake. In the Netherlands there are plenty of places where you can paddle board, such as near the waterfront, along the coast or even halfway to Dunkirk. Pay attention to the tide and wind, make sure the conditions are favorable before you go out on the water.

In short, stand-up paddle is an accessible and fun water sport for everyone. All you need is some basic equipment and a little practice. So what are you waiting for? Get on the water and discover the world of supping!

Create your own beach sports field

To start building a beach field, it is important to find a suitable location. Preferably a place with sand, such as a beach or a specially constructed sand field. Consider the space you need for the sport you want to play and make sure you have enough space for the size of the playing field.

Collect materials

Depending on the sport you want to play, you need different materials. Think about:

• Nets and posts for beach volleyball, beach tennis or beach badminton
• Ground pots and playing field markings to mark off the playing field
• Goals for beach soccer or beach handball
• Special beach korfball posts for beach korfball

Before you start building the field, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand.

Set up the playing field

Now that you have the right location and materials, it's time to set up the playing field. Follow these steps:
1. Determine the dimensions of the playing field based on the sport you want to play.
2. Mark the corners of the playing field with playing field markers or other visible markings.
3. Place the ground pots in the right places for the posts or goals.
4. Place the posts or goals in the ground pots and make sure they are stable.
5. Stretch the nets between the posts for beach volleyball, beach tennis or beach badminton.
6. Prepare the ball or other necessary sports equipment for use.

Rules and teams

Now that your playing field is ready, it's time to form teams and discuss the rules of the game. Depending on the chosen sport, the rules and number of players per team may vary. Make sure everyone is aware of the rules and the skills required for the sport.

To work!

Now that everything is set up, it's time to start playing! Enjoy the game and the fun with your friends or family. Try out different sports and find out which suits you and your group best. Beach sports are not only fun, but also a great way to be active and develop new skills. Have fun!

Conclusion

As you have read, beach sports is a broad term for sports that are played on the beach. Anyone can start with it and it's a nice change from regular gym classes. It's a super fun way to enjoy the sun and sand and you can have a lot of fun with it.

It is a challenging variant of volleyball, a sport that everyone knows, and it is one of the most popular beach sports in the world. Give it a try and you'll see it's a great way to soak up the sun and relax.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.