Beach volleyball is a fast-paced and exciting sport enjoyed worldwide. The official beach volleyball court measures 16 meters (52 feet 6 inches) in length and 8 meters (26 feet 3 inches) in width. This rectangular size was standardised by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) in 1999 to enhance the flow and competitiveness of the game. The court is divided evenly by a net that is approximately 8.5 meters wide, with net heights set at 2.43 meters (8 feet) for men and 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 inches) for women.
Surrounding the court is a free zone of at least 3 meters for casual play and up to 5 to 6 meters for official competitions, ensuring players have adequate space to move safely. The surface is made of fine sand, at least 40 centimetres deep, providing a unique playing experience that challenges agility and endurance. These official dimensions guarantee optimal gameplay and safety for players at all levels.
Net Height and Specifications
The net divides the court into two equal halves and has specific height requirements based on gender:
- Men’s net height: 2.43 meters (8 feet)
- Women’s net height: 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 inches)
For younger players, net heights vary by age to accommodate development levels, ensuring inclusivity across all groups.
The net length is about 8.5 meters (approximately 27 feet 11 inches), spanning the court’s width.
Read More: Volleyball Court Dimensions
Free Zone and Clearance Space Requirements
For safe and unobstructed play:
- A free zone of at least 3 meters for recreational play is recommended, while 5 to 6 meters is ideal for official competitions.
- The clearance height above the court should be a minimum of 7 meters for casual play and at least 12.5 meters for professional tournaments.
- When planning multiple adjacent courts, maintain a minimum distance of 4 meters between playing areas to prevent interference during simultaneous games.
Court Surface and Layout
The court must be made of soft, fine sand with a minimum depth of 40 cm to provide players with proper footing and reduce injury risk. The sand surface offers a unique challenge compared to indoor volleyball and is essential for authentic beach volleyball play.
Dimensions of a Beach Volleyball Court
To ensure a top-quality beach volleyball court, it is essential to follow precise specifications for dimensions, net height, free zones, clearance, and surface.
| Aspect | Specification | Notes |
| Court Dimensions | 16m x 8m (52.5ft x 26.3ft) | Standard size for 2v2 beach volleyball |
| Net Height (Men/Women) | 2.43m / 2.24m (8ft/7ft 4in) | Measured at the centre of the net |
| Free Zone | 3m minimum (recreational) | 5-6m recommended for tournaments |
| Clearance Height | 7m (recreational) / 12.5m (pro) | Ensures safe play and high jumps |
| Distance Between Courts | Minimum 4m | Avoid game interference |
| Surface | Fine, soft sand (40 cm deep) | Provides an authentic play experience |
Conclusion
Understanding the official beach volleyball court size and related standards is vital for players, coaches, and sports facility managers. From the 16 by 8 meter court to precise net heights and free zones, every measurement contributes to a safe and competitive environment. Whether setting up a professional venue or a backyard court, adhering to these guidelines guarantees an optimal beach volleyball experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
No, a beach volleyball is slightly larger and lighter than an indoor volleyball. The beach volleyball measures about 66-68 cm (26-27 inches) in circumference, designed to perform well in outdoor conditions like wind and sun, whereas indoor volleyballs are smaller and heavier (65-67cm).
Beach volleyball is a sport played on a sand court where two teams, each with two players, compete to score points by hitting the ball over a net into the opposing team’s court, following specific volley ball rules and typically playing best of three sets.
Each beach volleyball team has two players, making it a 2v2 game without substitutions.
Each team is allowed a maximum of three touches to return the ball over the net.
Yes, you can use any part of your body to play the ball in beach volleyball, including kicking it, as long as the contact follows the rules (no prolonged holds or carrying).
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