For the Spike Set

October 1, 2012 | By Waikiki Magazine Team

Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson

If you crave a bit more beachside action than a typical yoga sesh, head to the volleyball nets around Waikiki. Gaining in popularity thanks to the prime coverage the sport received during the 2012 Summer Olympics, and the fact that it’s recently been sanctioned as a NCAA sport, beach (or sand) volleyball has certainly come into its own.

While there doesn’t seem be a regular schedule for game at the Queen’s Beach court, there are periodic sponsored (either by clubs or private organizations) tournaments throughout the year. For most of these games, just show up on the beach and enjoy the game!

If you’re itching to play some outdoor v-ball yourself, some of the sponsored tournaments may even be open to walk-up teams; check with each tournament’s organizers for rules and regulations. Another option is to head to Fort DeRussy beach, where there are pick-up games year-round.

Yearning for Olympic-style volleyball? The Women’s Olympic Volleyball teams from the U.S. and China play in an exhibition game at Duke Kahanamoku Beach, fronting Hilton Hawaiian Village on October 20. Log on to www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/volleyball for more information.