The row of free public beach volleyball courts south of the Pier has established Santa Monica's reputation as a Mecca for both players and fans of the sport. Anyone can join pickup games here, and a number of America's Olympic beach volleyball competitors have trained on these very courts. Spectators can enjoy the action from bleacher-style seating on the long, broad wooden steps leading up to the Pier.

Additional beach volleyball courts are located near equipment-rental shops along Ocean Front Walk and the bicycle path in both directions from the Pier.