How to Play Beach Tennis - Your Ultimate Guide

Beach tennis combines elements of tennis and beach volleyball, offering a unique and exciting way to enjoy physical activity on the sand. Originating in Italy in the 1970s, beach tennis has gained popularity worldwide, with both recreational players and professional circuits expanding across the globe. Whether you're a seasoned racket sport enthusiast or new to the game, beach tennis provides a dynamic and accessible sport that emphasizes agility, strategy, and teamwork.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about how to play beach tennis . From understanding the rules to mastering advanced techniques, you’ll learn how to improve your game and enjoy this fast-paced sport. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to play beach tennis confidently, whether casually or competitively.

Equipment

To play beach tennis , you'll need specific equipment, starting with the beach tennis racket. Unlike traditional tennis rackets, these are solid, perforated paddles made from composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. These paddles are lightweight and designed for quick reflexes and precise control. The balls used in beach tennis are slightly depressurized, similar to those used in beach volleyball but smaller and softer, allowing for longer rallies and more strategic play.

Check out our blog The Beginner's Guide to the Rules of Beach Tennis to understand more. Rules are governed by the ITF, learn more about the ITF rulebook in our blog post about the ITF rules of beach tennis.

The net is set at a height of 1.7 meters (5 feet 7 inches), the same for both men's and women's play. This height, akin to a badminton net, encourages a fast-paced, volley-dominant game. The court is 16 meters long and 8 meters wide, identical to a beach volleyball court, with sand as the playing surface, adding a layer of physical challenge that demands different movement and footing techniques compared to hard courts.

Court Dimensions and Setup

The beach tennis court is 16 meters in length and 8 meters in width, with singles play reducing the width to 4.5 meters. The net divides the court into two halves, and lines should be clearly marked with tape or rope, ensuring visibility during play. The sand surface should be leveled, free from significant dips or mounds that could interfere with play.

Rules of the Game

The rules of beach tennis are straightforward, borrowing elements from both tennis and volleyball. The game can be played as singles or doubles, with doubles being more common. Scoring follows the traditional tennis system: 15, 30, 40, and game, with no-ad scoring. A match typically consists of the best of three sets, with each set won by the first team to reach six games, provided they lead by two games. A tiebreaker is played if the set is tied at 6-6.

Serving is done overhand or underhand as hard and fast as possible with the intent to score on a serve. The server standing behind the baseline and hitting the ball into the opposite service box without touching the net. Players have only one chance to get the serve in, as there are no second serves in beach tennis . After the serve, both teams engage in a volley exchange, aiming to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent's court without the ball touching the ground. Points are won when the opposing team fails to return the ball within the court's boundaries or commits a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.

Common fouls include hitting the ball out of bounds, double-touching the ball, and touching the net with any part of the body or racket. These rules ensure fair and competitive play, emphasizing skill and strategy.

Serving

Serving in beach tennis is performed underhand, with the goal of placing the ball accurately into the opponent's service box. Stand with your non-dominant foot forward, hold the ball in your non-dominant hand, and swing the racket underhand, striking the ball just below waist height. Consistency and placement are key; practice serving to different areas of the service box to keep your opponents off balance.

Volleying

Volleying is central to how to play beach tennis , as the game is played almost entirely in the air. To volley effectively, keep your racket up and ready, with a relaxed but firm grip. Focus on directing the ball rather than hitting it with force; gentle taps and controlled shots are often more effective than powerful smashes, especially in windy conditions.

Smashing

The smash is an aggressive shot used to finish a point. To execute a smash, position yourself under the ball, swing the racket over your head, and strike the ball with a downward motion to send it forcefully into your opponent's court. Accuracy is crucial; aim for open spaces or target your opponent's weaker side to increase your chances of winning the point.

Footwork and Movement

Playing on sand requires different footwork and movement techniques. Quick, small steps help maintain balance and agility. Shuffle your feet and use your legs to push off the sand. Stay low with your knees slightly bent to react quickly and maintain stability. Practice moving laterally and diagonally to cover the court efficiently, and stay light on your feet to maintain speed and agility.

Improving Accuracy and Control

Accuracy and control are vital in beach tennis . Focus on the fundamentals of ball striking—keeping your eyes on the ball, maintaining a consistent racket face angle, and following through with your shot. Practice with a partner or against a wall to develop a feel for the ball and improve your precision. Work on placing the ball where your opponents are least prepared to return it, such as the sidelines or corners, to gain a strategic advantage.

Positioning and Court Coverage

Effective positioning and court coverage are crucial in beach tennis , especially in doubles play. Communication with your partner is essential for covering the court effectively. You can play in a "parallel" formation, covering the court horizontally, or in a "front-back" formation, with one player closer to the net and the other positioned further back. Adjust your positioning based on your opponents' strengths and weaknesses, and be prepared to switch formations as needed. Check out our blog on Beach Tennis Tips to learn more. 

Adapting to Opponents and Conditions

Adapting your play style to different opponents and conditions is key to success. Against aggressive players, focus on neutralizing their power with controlled, accurate shots. Against defensive players, increase the tempo with well-timed smashes and sharp angles. Wind and uneven sand can also impact play; in windy conditions, aim lower to keep the ball under control, and in deep sand, conserve energy and maintain balance.

Maintaining Focus and Composure

Maintaining focus and composure is crucial in how to play beach tennis successfully. Develop a pre-serve routine to stay calm and centered, and practice mindfulness to keep your thoughts focused. Concentrate on one point at a time, and stay positive to regain control if things aren't going your way. Beach tennis is a game of momentum, and staying composed can help you maintain an edge over your opponents.

Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is essential for beach tennis , demanding agility, strength, and endurance. Plyometric exercises, like jump squats and burpees, build explosive power in your legs. Core strength exercises, like planks, help with balance and stability. Additionally, regular cardiovascular exercise improves overall stamina, which is crucial for maintaining high performance throughout a match.

Mental Preparation and Mindset

Mental preparation is just as important as physical fitness in beach tennis . Develop a positive mindset by setting achievable goals and visualizing success. Practice mental toughness by staying focused during practice sessions and matches. Remember that beach tennis is as much a mental game as a physical one, and a strong mindset can give you an advantage over your opponents.

Injury Prevention and Recovery

Playing on sand can be physically demanding, so injury prevention is crucial. Warm up thoroughly before playing and cool down afterward to prevent muscle strains. Strengthen your lower body and core to reduce the risk of injuries like sprains and pulls. If you do get injured, prioritize recovery with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Finding Local Clubs and Tournaments

Joining a local beach tennis club or league is a great way to improve your skills and meet other players. Many cities with coastal access have clubs where you can participate in casual games or organized tournaments. Check online for local clubs and events, and don't hesitate to reach out to the community for advice on where to start. Check out our  Beach Tennis Court Finder and find courts and clubs in the US and around the world. 

Benefits of Joining the Beach Tennis Community

Being part of the beach tennis community offers numerous benefits. You'll have the opportunity to play regularly, which is key to improving your game. You'll also meet other players who share your passion, leading to friendships and networking opportunities. Additionally, playing in a community setting can provide motivation and support, helping you stay committed to the sport.

Major Beach Tennis Events

Beach tennis has several major events worldwide, including professional tournaments and amateur competitions. Events like the ITF Beach Tennis World Championships attract top players from around the globe and offer a chance to see the best in action. Participating in or spectating at these events can provide inspiration and insight into how to play beach tennis at a higher level.

In this guide on how to play beach tennis , we've covered everything from the basic rules to advanced techniques and strategies. Whether you're just starting or looking to take your game to the next level, the key is practice, persistence, and a passion for the sport. Beach tennis offers a fun and challenging way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others. So grab your racket, hit the sand, and start playing!