Knowing beach volleyball rules is a must if you want to start playing. If you don’t know the rules, how are you going to play and compete? Or as Pink Floyd said in one of their songs, “How can you eat your pudding if you don’t eat your meat?”
The majority of the rules are going to be the same as if you were playing indoor volleyball. If you aren’t familiar with those rules, I would suggest going here to learn the rules of volleyball.
I am mostly going to be focusing on the rules that are different for beach volleyball.
- Scoring usually consists of the best of three sets. Each set is usually played to 21 points and the winner must win by two points. If it goes to the final set, the set goes to 15 points. The score is done by rally score.
- Sets must be straight in front of the setter. Side setting is not permitted.
- Open handed dinks or tips are not legal for the hitter. If they are going to tip it over the net, they must use a closed fist or knuckles.
- Teams will change sides of the court after every seven points regardless of who won the points. Since the sun and wind can affect the court, changing sides makes it fair for both teams.
- Unlike indoor volleyball, you are not required to rotate or change positions.
Where to go next?
Volleyball Practice Plans – Download a sample practice plan to make practice more effective.
Volleyball Statistics – Learn how to improve your game by tracking it.
Tachikara Volleyballs – Read the reviews to see how they stack up against others.
