6 Best Beach Games For Your Next Vacation

1. Bocce Ball 

The beach is the perfect place to play Bocce Ball, a classic outdoor game already meant for the sand. Ideal for all ages and playable with two to eight players, it’s great for family fun and bonding. Picnic Makers recommends the Go Sports Backyard Bocce set, which includes a convenient canvas carrying case for easy transport and storage​.

Consider the Bocce Ball Set and Carrying Case by Trademark Games if you don’t want the balls blowing in the wind. The heavier balls ensure stability, and according to Buzzfeed, kids under 10 will catch on quickly and may win!

The Shore Blog recommends a glow-in-the-dark bocce set for night play on the beach. This set includes a glowing pallino, eight waterproof game balls, and a carrying case, allowing for wider play areas without daytime beach obstacles. Enjoy a fun, challenging game under the stars with brightly glowing balls​

2. Cornhole 

Cornhole is a favorite at backyard BBQs and retirement homes, and now it’s easy to take to the beach with lightweight, easy-to-assemble sets, according to Good Housekeeping.

Buzzfeed loves the Himal Collapsible Portable Cornhole set. One reviewer raves it holds up well, even after heavy use, and doesn’t take up too much space. Since the bean bags bounce easily, Picnic Makers adds a pro tip: “Use the bounce to your advantage—a softer throw can leverage the board’s give for a strategic landing​.” 

3. TidalBall

TidalBall is like a mix of bocce ball and cornhole, but super lightweight at just eight ounces, and it fits right into your beach bag. Just dig a hole and trench, make two teams, and start tossing balls. Sets usually come with a shovel, six balls, a beach bag, and koozies to keep your drinks cold. According to U.S. News, beachgoers love how easy it is to set up and play, and anyone can join in the fun.

Created by friends in South Carolina, TidalBall is all about fun and flexibility. Buzzfeed explains that the first team to reach 21 points wins, but Good Housekeeping suggests it’s even more fun if you make up your own rules. Plus, you can have as many people on a team as you want, so get everyone on your stretch of the beach involved!

4. Spikeball

Spikeball became popular after its debut on Shark Tank in 2015. Now you can level up your Spikeball game by playing in the water at the beach! A Spikebuoy turns any Spikeball set into a floatable adventure. Simply attach the anchor bag and leg floats to your existing set and dive into the fun. According to Travel and Leisure, it’s a must-have for your next beach trip.

If you’d rather play on the sand, SpikeBall gets thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon. Think beach volleyball, but with a mini trampoline instead of a net. Good Housekeeping says there’s no need to stay on your side of the court! If you’re a serious player on land, U.S. News suggests upgrading to the Spikeball Pro Kit. It includes a stronger net and new balls with better spin, perfect for elevating your game.

5. Bucketball

Bucketball is like beer pong without the beer. (Of course, you can always have adult beverages on the side). Created by beachgoers in North Carolina, the goal is simple: get the ball into the bucket from 15 feet away for beginners and 25 feet for advanced players. The kit includes balls of different weights, and U.S. News recommends the yellow hybrid balls for windy days. Buzzfeed is convinced this will become your favorite game, while letting you put your beer pong skills to good use!

Use the optional floating rack and you can up your game in the water. Outerbanks says a kit is lightweight, easy to bring along, and fun for all ages. Think of it as giant beer pong you can play on the lawn, sand, or even in the pool or calm water.

6. Jazzminton

What do you get when you cross badminton, pickleball, ping pong, and tennis? Jazzminton! This paddle game, perfect for two players, includes balls and birdies that can withstand beach winds. U.S. News recommends the Paddle Game Select Double by FunSparks, which comes with four paddles, four balls, 11 birdies, and a carrying bag.

Buzzfeed agrees that the FunSparks set is the best to bring on the go because you don’t have to set up a net. You can make up the rules as you go, and when you’re done, everything fits neatly back into the bag.

Thanks to the game’s soft construction, you don’t have to worry about bopping someone over the head with a birdie. Picnic Makers says it’s perfect for all skill levels, making it a hit for everyone.