Beach volleyball’s roots run deep in Santa Monica, where the sport evolved from casual games among friends into a global phenomenon. In the early 20th century, locals began playing informal matches along the wide, sandy shores—often near what’s now known as the オリジナル・マッスル・ビーチ. By the 1960s and ‘70s, competitive play gained momentum, drawing crowds and top talent. In 1983, the sport took a major leap forward with the founding of the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) in Santa Monica. Today, the city is considered the birthplace of modern beach volleyball, a hub where both legends and beginners continue to play.

Santa Monica State Beach offers dozens of volleyball courts—six designated areas, including spots at Ocean Park South/North, Tournament Beach, Sorrento Beach, the Pier Courts (with lights for evening play) and the アネンバーグ・コミュニティ・ビーチ・ハウス—all available to reserve ahead of time. In addition, many public courts—especially north and south of the Pier—are open on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you’re planning ahead, you can reserve a court online or in person through the City’s ActiveNet system (required for Annenberg, Pier Courts, Ocean Park, Sorrento and more), up to 28 days in advance, at about $15 per hour. Some areas may offer hourly reservation options via email or phone. No reservation is needed for open-play courts—the early bird gets the court.