Beach volleyball emerged as one of the most sought-after sports in terms of viewership at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Fans cheered on their favourite teams at the Eiffel Tower Stadium, including Team Canada, which successfully made it to the finals, claiming a Silver medal.
Although the Summer Olympics have wrapped up, you can still visit the iconic destinations where your favourite athletes travel for elite training. If you’re looking for a vacation spot with scenic coasts, entertainment, and a history of beach volleyball, look no further than sunny Santa Monica.
For America’s three-time Olympic Gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings, Santa Monica is the “birthplace” of the modern sport. She hit its beaches to prepare for her volleyball matches and learn about the sport’s history and the great athletes that came before her.
“The sand is deep, and the competition is amazing. The Santa Monica lifestyle is beachy, natural, and active — everything my sport represents and something I always aspired to.”
Santa Monica’s beach volleyball history dates back to the early 1920s when the first nets were installed. Although the sport was still relatively new, it grew in popularity before becoming an official sport in the 30s. What started as a game for casual players soon ramped up to inter-club competitions throughout the city.
So, what makes Santa Monica an ideal training spot for beach volleyball? The answer is its 3.5 miles of white sandy beaches. Today, there are many beach volleyball courts and clubs across the city, including the iconic Annenberg Community Beach House.
Walsh Jennings added that the city is full of activities for families to enjoy. “Santa Monica has always been a pinnacle in my life . . . Now, as someone who’s a mother and enjoys the experience of being active and wants to give my kids the things I’ve experienced, visiting Santa Monica is a no-brainer. The sand is beautiful, the beaches are wonderful, and there’s so much for them to do.”
Pacific Park, the world-famous amusement park on the Santa Monica pier, is a must-see for non-stop fun. Take a chance playing some midway games, brave some thrilling rides, and then enjoy the view of the beaches from the 85-foot-tall Pacific Wheel, the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel! The wheel even displayed the colours and patterns of this year’s Summer Games, glowing with support for Team USA in Paris.
With the Summer Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles in 2028, don’t miss out on visiting Santa Monica. With lots of sports history, lush beaches, and fun for young and old, this is one of the top destinations to visit along the U.S. West Coast.
Visit santamonica.com for more details about other attractions and accommodations.
Header image and Santa Monica Pier: Courtesy Santa Monica Travel & Tourism. Beach volleyball courts and players: Courtesy Kristen Beinke