The Ultimate Guide to Adult Beach Volleyball in British Columbia

Introduction

Are you looking for the best places to play beach volleyball in British Columbia? You've landed in the right place! Whether you're an experienced player or new to the game, we've got something for everyone in this comprehensive guide. From the bustling leagues of Vancouver to the peaceful sands of Surrey, discover the top spots for adult beach volleyball in BC.

Beach Volleyball: A Sport for Everyone

Beach volleyball is a fantastic sport that combines fun, fitness, and the joy of being outdoors. Unlike traditional indoor volleyball, beach volleyball is typically played in teams of two, adding a unique dynamic to the game. Whether you're looking to play casually with friends, join a local league, or compete in a tournament, there's a beach volleyball opportunity for you in BC.

The Basics of Beach Volleyball

Before we dive into where to play, let's quickly cover some basic rules of beach volleyball for those who are new to the sport. Beach volleyball is played on a sand court divided by a net. Each team tries to score points by grounding the ball on the opponent's court or when the opposing team commits a fault.

There are a few key differences between beach volleyball and its indoor counterpart. For instance, beach volleyball is played with teams of two rather than six, and players are allowed to roam the entire court without restrictions. Also, unlike indoor volleyball, there are no substitutions or positional rotations in beach volleyball.

Remember, the most important thing in beach volleyball, like any sport, is to have fun and enjoy the game!

Discover Beach Volleyball in Vancouver with Urban Rec

Vancouver is a hub for beach volleyball in BC, thanks to organizations like Urban Rec. They offer beach volleyball leagues throughout spring and summer, providing an excellent opportunity for adults of all skill levels to get involved in the sport.

Urban Rec organizes leagues at various locations, including the beautiful Jericho Beach, Wesbrook UBC courts, and Delta Secondary School courts. They offer both coed 4’s and coed 6’s formats, ensuring that everyone can find a league that suits their preferences.

Urban Rec's Beach Volleyball Offerings

One of the major highlights of Urban Rec's beach volleyball leagues is the emphasis on sportsmanship. While competition is encouraged, the spirit of the game and respect for fellow players is paramount. This makes Urban Rec's leagues a welcoming environment for all players, regardless of experience or skill level.

Their current leagues open for registration are primarily at the Delta Beach Volleyball Courts, with various days and times available. Some of the upcoming leagues are:

Delta Beach- Tuesday Coed 4's Season #1- REC ONLY: Starting on June 6, 2023, this league runs for 12 weeks with games scheduled between 6:05 PM - 8:15 PM.

Delta Beach- Thursday Coed 4's Season #1- REC ONLY: This league kicks off on June 8, 2023, and runs for 7 weeks. Games are also scheduled between 6:05 PM - 8:15 PM.

Delta Beach- Monday Coed 6's Season #1- REC ONLY: Starting on June 19, 2023, this 10-week league offers games from 6:05 PM - 8:15 PM.

Delta Beach- Wednesday Coed 6's Season #1- REC ONLY: This 10-week league begins on June 21, 2023, with games from6:05 PM - 8:15 PM.

Urban Rec also has a policy of playing rain or shine, adding a unique challenge to the game. Only in exceptional weather circumstances will leagues be cancelled. So, if you're not one to shy away from a little rain, this could add a fun twist to your beach volleyball experience!

Beach Volleyball Tournaments in BC: The Competitive Edge

Are you looking for a more competitive outlet for your beach volleyball skills? British Columbia is home to numerous beach volleyball tournaments throughout the year, offering opportunities for players of all skill levels to compete and test their mettle. One of the most notable tournament series is the Volleyball BC Beach Tour.

The Volleyball BC Beach Tour

The Volleyball BC Beach Tour is a series of tournaments that take place at various locations throughout British Columbia. These tournaments offer different categories, including gender divisions, age divisions, and different levels of play. This makes it a great opportunity for all players to participate, regardless of their skill level or experience.

Here's a look at some of the upcoming tournaments for 2023:

Kits Classic - Held at Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, this tournament takes place from May 20-21. Kitsilano Beach, known locally as "Kits Beach," is a popular spot for beach volleyball and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.

Penticton Open - This tournament is scheduled for June 3-4 at Skaha Beach in Penticton. Penticton, located in the Okanagan Valley, is renowned for its beautiful beaches and warm weather.

Jim Clive Cup - Returning to Kitsilano Beach, this tournament will take place from June 10-11.

Parksville Open - Taking place at Community Park in Parksville on June 24-25, this event offers a change of scenery with its location on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island.

Kamloops Open - Set for July 1-2 at Overlanders Park in Kamloops, this tournament provides an opportunity for players in the BC Interior to get in on the action.

Vancouver Open - Back at Kits Beach, this tournament runs from July 14-16 and is one of the marquee events on the Beach Tour.

Beach Provincials - The season culminates with the Beach Provincials on August 5-6 at Spanish Banks in Vancouver. This is a great opportunity for teams to showcase the skills they've developed over the summer and compete for the title of provincial champions.

Whether you're an experienced player looking to compete at a high level, or a recreational player looking to have some fun and meet new people, these tournaments offer a great experience for all.

Beach Volleyball in Surrey and Langley: Discover Hidden Gems

While Vancouver might be the most well-known location for beach volleyball in BC, don't overlook other cities such as Surrey and Langley. They also have their own vibrant volleyball communities and beautiful beach volleyball facilities.

Surrey, in particular, is home to some fantastic beach volleyball venues. These facilities often offer recreational leagues, drop-in sessions, and tournaments, providing plenty of opportunities for adults to get involved in the sport. If you're based in or around Surrey, make sure to check out what's on offer locally.

Langley also boasts several excellent beach volleyball facilities. These venues are perfect for adults looking to play beach volleyball in a friendly, welcoming environment. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, you're sure to find something to suit your needs in Langley.

Remember to check the local councils' websites for up-to-date information on beach volleyball facilities and programs in Surrey and Langley.

Training Opportunities in British Columbia

If you're new to beach volleyball or looking to improve your skills, there are many training opportunities available throughout British Columbia. Many beach volleyball leagues and clubs offer coaching sessions and clinics aimed at helping players of all levels improve their skills.

Urban Rec, for instance, places individual teams in the most recreational pool available at the beginning of the season. This setup is ideal for players who are new to the game or have limited experience. It offers a supportive and fun environment where players can learn the basics of the game and improve their skills over time.

Beach Volleyball Equipment and Attire

Proper equipment and attire can significantly enhance your beach volleyball experience. Here are some essentials to consider:

Volleyball: Opt for a beach volleyball, which is slightly larger and softer than indoor volleyballs.

Clothing: Comfortable, athletic wear is a must. Some players prefer to play in swimsuits, while others opt for shorts and a tank top or t-shirt. Choose attire that allows you to move freely and handle the heat.

Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and sand with a sturdy pair of sports sunglasses.

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays with a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Sand Socks: If the sand is too hot, sand socks can protect your feet while also providing added comfort and support.

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during hot summer days. Always bring a water bottle to your games and practices.

Conclusion

British Columbia offers a wealth of opportunities for adults looking to play beach volleyball. Whether you're based in Vancouver, Surrey, or Langley, there are numerous leagues, tournaments, and training opportunities available. From the competitive spirit of the Volleyball BC Beach Tour to the inclusive environment of Urban Rec's leagues, there's something for everyone in BC's beach volleyball scene.

Remember, beach volleyball is not just about competition; it's about having fun, staying active, and enjoying the beautiful outdoor settings that British Columbia has to offer. So grab a volleyball, gather some friends, and hit the beach!

Whether you're a seasoned pro, a recreational player, or a complete beginner, we hope this guide inspires you to serve, spike, and dive into the exciting world of beach volleyball in British Columbia. Happy playing!