Summer Soccer Games: Top 6 Activities for the Beach
Want to make your beach day active and fun? Try these 6 soccer-inspired activities that improve your skills while keeping things lighthearted and competitive.
- Soccer Tennis: A mix of volleyball and soccer, played with a net. Great for ball control, agility, and teamwork. Quick setup with portable nets starting at $79.99.
- Beach Dribbling Challenge: Create obstacle courses with cones to practice dribbling. Perfect for sharpening balance and ball control.
- Team Passing Relay: Split into teams and race to complete passing sequences. Focuses on precision, communication, and teamwork.
- Beach Juggling Contest: Test how long you can keep the ball in the air. Builds coordination, focus, and first-touch skills.
- Sand Soccer Mini-Match: Play 3v3 or 4v4 games on a smaller sandy field. Engages all-around soccer skills in a fun, competitive setting.
- Soccer Target Game: Shoot at targets within a goal frame. Improves shooting accuracy and technique.
Quick Comparison
| Activity | Skills Developed | Setup Difficulty | Required Gear | Fun Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soccer Tennis | Ball control, agility | Easy | Net, ball, boundaries | High |
| Beach Dribbling | Dribbling, balance | Very Easy | Cones, ball | Medium |
| Team Passing Relay | Passing, teamwork | Easy | Cones, ball | High |
| Beach Juggling | Ball control, focus | Very Easy | Ball | Medium |
| Sand Soccer Mini-Match | All-around skills | Moderate | Goals, ball, markers | Very High |
| Soccer Target Game | Shooting accuracy | Easy | Goal with targets, ball, markers | High |
Why it works: Playing soccer on sand burns 30% more calories and improves balance, agility, and coordination. It's a workout disguised as fun, perfect for players of all skill levels. Portable gear like the Kickit Soccer Tennis set ($79.99) makes setup easy, so you can focus on enjoying the game.
Turn your beach day into a mix of fitness, skill-building, and unforgettable fun!
1. Soccer Tennis on the Sand
Soccer tennis combines the best of volleyball and soccer into an exciting beach game. Here’s how it works: set up a net between two teams, and players use their feet, chest, or head to send the ball over the net. The soft, uneven surface of the sand adds an extra layer of difficulty, making every touch more challenging - and more rewarding.
The game traces its roots back to 1922 at Football Club Slavia Prague, and today, it boasts a global following of 60 million players. The beach version amps up the challenge, making it an ideal activity for summer fun.
Equipment Needed
To get started, you’ll need a few essentials: a net, sturdy steel poles, a lightweight soccer ball, a ball pump, a carry bag, and boundary markers.
Kickit offers several well-designed sets to suit your needs. Their original Soccer Tennis set is priced at $79.99, while the Soccer Tennis Pro (designed for doubles) and the Inferno version are both available for $129.99. These sets feature connected poles with an internal bungee system, ensuring no parts get lost in the sand.
Quick and Easy Setup
High-quality soccer tennis sets are designed for convenience. They can be fully assembled in under 60 seconds, turning any beach spot into your personal court. Plus, the compact carry bag makes transportation and storage a breeze.
Skill Development
Playing soccer tennis on sand isn’t just fun - it’s a workout for your skills. The unstable surface forces players to refine their touch, improve ball control, and work on teamwork. It also builds strength and demands quick decision-making under pressure. The challenges of playing on sand often translate into sharper technical abilities on grass fields. For an extra boost in ball mastery, try playing barefoot.
Fun for Everyone
Soccer tennis thrives on its inclusive and competitive nature. The sand naturally levels the playing field, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the game. Add in the laid-back beach vibe and the unique challenges of the sport, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable summer activity.
2. Beach Dribbling Challenge
Beach dribbling challenges turn ball control into an exciting activity perfect for the sandy shores. The soft, shifting sand adds a unique twist, acting like a natural obstacle course that forces players to tweak their techniques. By setting up cones or markers in creative patterns, players can navigate the course while honing their dribbling skills.
The beauty of beach dribbling lies in its versatility. You can create straight sprints, zigzag routes, or even circular paths to match different skill levels. Since the sand slows the ball, it gives players more time to focus on balance and precise control.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need much to get started, which makes this one of the easiest beach soccer activities to dive into. Here's what you’ll need:
- A lightweight soccer ball.
- Durable, brightly colored cones that stand out in the sand.
- Optional extras like small goals, agility ladders, or resistance bands for added challenge.
Kickit offers portable training equipment that’s perfect for beach practice. For instance, their Kickit Trainers, priced at $39.99, are lightweight and easy to pack in a beach bag. Don’t forget to bring a soccer ball pump to keep the ball at the right pressure.
Ease of Setup
Setting up a dribbling course is quick and works in any beach space. Simply arrange cones in your preferred pattern - whether it’s a straight line, zigzag, or something more complex. The flexibility of this activity means you can adapt it to large open areas or even smaller spaces between beach umbrellas. For beginners, place the markers closer together; for more advanced players, space them farther apart.
Skill Development
Dribbling barefoot on sand is more than just fun - it’s a workout for your entire body. The resistance of the sand strengthens leg muscles, enhances balance, and improves close ball control. Plus, navigating the unstable surface sharpens your proprioception (your body’s sense of movement and position), building strength, agility, and explosive power.
To get the most out of it, practice weaving through the cones while keeping the ball close to your feet. These drills help develop the core skills needed to excel in beach soccer.
Fun Factor
Beach dribbling isn’t just about skill-building - it’s also a blast. It’s a perfect activity for players of all ages, making it a hit for family beach outings. The soft sand reduces the risk of injuries, so you can focus on having fun while improving your game. Whether you’re looking for a playful workout or a way to sharpen your soccer skills, this activity checks all the boxes.
3. Team Passing Relay
Team passing relays are a fantastic way to encourage teamwork in beach soccer while focusing on skill-building and keeping the energy high. In this activity, players are split into teams that race to complete passing sequences or maneuver through courses faster than their rivals. The shifting sand adds an extra layer of challenge, slowing down passes and demanding precise timing. It’s a great way to transition smoothly from warm-ups to practicing team strategies.
Equipment Needed
To set up a team passing relay, you’ll need a few soccer balls to keep the game moving and cones or markers to outline the relay stations and boundaries. Products like the Kickit Soccer Tennis set ($79.99) can double as boundary markers, while the Kickit Trainers ($39.99) offer lightweight balls that are perfect for practicing accurate passes. Both come with carrying bags, making them easy to transport - ideal for a day at the beach. This portable gear ensures you’re ready for both skill-building drills and spontaneous fun.
Ease of Setup
Team passing relays are highly adaptable to any beach space. Use cones, markers, or even natural items like driftwood or beach chairs to create your relay course. The layout can vary - straight lines, zigzags, or circular patterns - depending on the available space and the size of your group. Setup is quick, so you can maximize playtime. For beginners, keep stations close and distances short. More advanced players can tackle longer passes and intricate routes, which test their accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
Skill Development
This activity helps players improve essential soccer skills, including passing accuracy, timing, communication, ball control, and first touch. It also enhances agility, balance, and body control, as the uneven sand surface requires constant adjustments. Over time, practicing on sand strengthens leg muscles and boosts overall stability.
Fun Factor
Beyond the skill-building, team passing relays bring out a competitive edge, making them perfect for family outings or group games. The difficulty can be adjusted by tweaking distances, adding obstacles, or introducing themed challenges to suit your group’s abilities and preferences. For example, you can award points based on team performance or add mental tasks, like calling out specific passing patterns before starting each relay. The soft sand not only makes it safer to dive for tricky passes but also encourages players to take creative risks. This is especially beneficial for younger players, helping them gain confidence as they refine their skills.
4. Beach Juggling Contest
Beach juggling contests test players' ability to keep the ball in the air using only their feet, thighs, chest, and head - all while navigating the tricky, uneven surface of sand. The goal? To see who can juggle the longest without letting the ball drop. It’s a mix of fun, skill, and competition that also hones essential ball control techniques.
Equipment Needed
All you need are a soccer ball and some simple boundary markers. For beginners, a beach ball is a great starting point - it’s lighter and easier to control. More advanced players might prefer something like the Kickit Trainer ($39.99), which is portable and designed for skill-building. With this minimal gear, setting up a contest is quick and easy.
Ease of Setup
Organizing a beach juggling contest is a breeze. You can use natural beach items like driftwood, chairs, or even lines drawn in the sand to mark zones for each participant. These zones ensure everyone has their own space to juggle without interference. The format is flexible too - you can run elimination rounds, timed challenges, or skill-based competitions where players must complete specific juggling patterns. For larger groups, set up multiple stations with varying levels of difficulty to keep everyone engaged.
Skill Development
Juggling on sand offers a unique way to sharpen your soccer skills. The uneven surface forces players to constantly adjust, improving coordination, ball control, and first-touch ability. Start with simple touches using different parts of your body, then work up to more frequent and precise juggles - focus on accuracy rather than speed. The effort required to maintain balance on sand strengthens leg muscles and overall stability, which translates into better agility and control when playing on solid ground.
Fun Factor
Beach juggling contests are perfect for players of all skill levels. Beginners can start with basic moves or use a lighter ball to build confidence, while advanced players can challenge themselves with intricate juggling sequences. The soft sand provides a safer environment for trying daring tricks, encouraging creativity and experimentation. To keep things lively, you can introduce themed challenges like "juggle while walking backward" or "use only your left foot." The contest format not only tracks progress but also keeps motivation high. It’s a great way to blend fun, fitness, and skill-building into one sandy adventure.
sbb-itb-8dc5da3
5. Sand Soccer Mini-Match
Sand soccer mini-matches are where all those refined skills from drills come to life in a competitive, game-like setting. These smaller games, usually played with 3v3 or 4v4 teams on a compact field, are fast-paced and keep every player fully engaged. The soft sand adds an extra layer of challenge, turning traditional soccer into a more physically demanding experience that builds strength while keeping things exciting.
Equipment Needed
To set up your own sand soccer mini-match, you'll need some beach-friendly gear:
- Portable goals: Specifically designed for sand play, these cost between $299.99 and $359.99 and are built for durability and visibility.
- Beach soccer ball: A foamed surface makes these balls ideal for barefoot play, priced at $19.99–$29.99.
- Cones or markers: Use color-coded ones to clearly define the field boundaries.
- Kickit Trainers: These, priced at $39.99, are great for warm-up juggling.
For the best experience, choose a beach soccer ball inflated to a lower pressure (0.4–0.6 atm) for a softer touch. If you're focusing on skill-building, a size 3 ball offers better control for precise touches.
Ease of Setup
Creating your beach soccer field is quick and straightforward with a little prep work. Start by clearing the area of any debris to avoid injuries. Use natural beach landmarks or portable markers to outline the field, adjusting the size to fit your space. Add cones to mark the halfway line and penalty areas for easy reference during play. This setup can be done in minutes, leaving more time for the fun part - playing.
Skill Development
Mini-matches take the skills you've been practicing and put them into action in a way that's both technical and tactical. Playing on sand challenges players to adapt, and as the Girls Unite San Francisco Soccer Club explains:
Sand soccer training has become a popular way to supplement soccer training and develop advanced technical soccer skills while enjoying time at the beach in the summer.
The unstable surface forces players to work harder, which builds leg and core strength. It also sharpens ball control, creativity, and quick decision-making. Plus, sand training is great for injury prevention and recovery, making it a smart cross-training option for players of all levels.
Fun Factor
Beyond the skill-building, sand soccer mini-matches are just plain fun. The beach setting, barefoot play, and smaller teams promote a competitive but relaxed vibe. Younger players especially enjoy the experience, often so much that they don’t even notice how hard they’re working. Running on sand burns around 30% more calories than running on grass, so it’s an intense workout disguised as a good time. As Real Brazil puts it:
Beach soccer is a fun and effective way for kids to develop physical, technical, and social skills.
Want to take it up a notch? Add some music and create a lively atmosphere to keep the energy high and the smiles wide.
6. Soccer Target Game
Soccer target games offer a perfect mix of fun and skill-building, especially on the beach. These games challenge players to hit specific targets within a goal frame, turning traditional shooting practice into a lively competition. The sandy surface adds an extra twist, pushing players to refine their ball control and adjust their technique. Ready to set up your own game? Let’s start with the essentials.
Equipment Needed
To set up a soccer target game on the beach, you'll need gear designed for sandy conditions. Pop-up goals are lightweight, portable, and easy to assemble. A single pop-up goal starts at $39.99, but for a more complete setup, you can opt for a Kids Soccer Goal set at $69.99. This set includes two goals, a detachable target cloth with scoring zones, a ball, pump, cones, and a carrying bag - everything you need for a fun session.
For those who take their beach soccer seriously, professional-grade options like the FORZA Beach POD Soccer Goal ($189.99–$229.99) or the FORZA ProFlex Beach Soccer Goal ($299.99–$359.99) are excellent choices. These goals are built specifically for sand play, featuring rust-resistant materials and sturdy designs. Don’t forget to pack ground stakes to keep the goals secure in shifting sand and consider a wheeled bag for easier transportation.
Ease of Setup
Setting up your soccer target game is quick and simple. Pop-up goals can be assembled in under a minute. Secure them with ground stakes and attach the target cloth to create instant scoring zones. Use cones or natural markers like shells or driftwood to set a shooting line, ensuring consistent distances for all players.
The best part? The process is so straightforward that even kids can pitch in, turning setup into a fun, team activity. Once everything’s ready, you can dive straight into the action without delay.
Skill Development
Soccer target games are fantastic for sharpening shooting accuracy and ball control. Playing on sand adds an extra layer of challenge, improving balance and overall physical fitness. The uneven surface forces players to adapt, enhancing their precision and technique.
As Brazilian soccer legend Daniel Alves puts it:
Beach Soccer requires a lot of technique, and this helps any soccer player grow.
These games also improve timing during offensive plays and help players feel more comfortable handling the ball in tight situations. Plus, the instant feedback from each shot keeps players engaged and motivated to refine their skills.
Fun Factor
What makes soccer target games so enjoyable is their ability to blend competition with accessibility. You can organize mini-tournaments with creative scoring systems, like awarding extra points for hitting specific zones. Add music or themed challenges to keep the energy high, and encourage kids to invent their own drills or mini-games.
The beach setting adds to the excitement, and as players improve, you can increase the difficulty by extending the shooting distance or using smaller targets. Celebrate milestones - whether it’s hitting a tough target or simply seeing improvement - to keep the focus on progress rather than perfection.
For younger players, these games are a great way to boost creativity, confidence, and engagement, all while having a blast in the sun and sand.
Game Comparison Chart
Here's a breakdown of six beach soccer activities based on skill development, setup ease, required gear, and overall fun factor:
| Game | Skill Development | Setup Difficulty | Required Equipment | Fun Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soccer Tennis | Ball control, timing, agility | Easy | Net, ball, boundaries | High – competitive and social |
| Beach Dribbling Challenge | Dribbling, balance, quick footwork | Very Easy | Cones/markers, ball | Medium – skill-focused |
| Team Passing Relay | Passing accuracy, teamwork, communication | Easy | Cones, ball | High – team building |
| Beach Juggling Contest | Ball control, coordination, focus | Very Easy | Ball only | Medium – individual challenge |
| Sand Soccer Mini-Match | All-around skills, decision-making, fitness | Moderate | Goals, ball, field markers | Very High – full game experience |
| Soccer Target Game | Shooting accuracy, precision, technique | Easy | Goal with targets, ball, markers | High – instant feedback |
Each activity brings something different to the table, letting you tailor your beach day to your group’s preferences. Research shows that playing soccer on sand can significantly improve ball control and agility. The uneven surface of the sand challenges your technical abilities, making it a great way to complement traditional grass training sessions.
Francesco Mauri, Physical Coach for FC Bayern München, notes that sand training boosts strength, agility, and overall coordination, making it a valuable addition to any athlete's routine.
Kickit Product Recommendations
Here’s how Kickit’s lineup complements these activities:
| Product | Price | Best For | Why It Works | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kickit Soccer Tennis | $79.99 | Soccer Tennis, Team Passing Relay | Perfect net height; includes boundaries | Under 60 seconds |
| Kickit Soccer Tennis Pro (Doubles) | $129.99 | Soccer Tennis (large groups), Sand Soccer Mini-Match | 12ft x 3ft net; doubles play design | Under 60 seconds |
| Kickit Inferno Soccer Tennis | $129.99 | Evening beach games, Soccer Tennis | Night play capability; premium materials | Under 60 seconds |
| Kickit Soccer Tennis Ball | $24.99 | All games | Designed for sand play; lightweight | N/A |
| Kickit Trainers | $39.99 | Beach Juggling Contest, Dribbling Challenge | Juggling-specific design; portable | Instant |
The Kickit Soccer Tennis Pro (Doubles) stands out for group activities. Its larger 12ft x 3ft net is perfect for soccer tennis matches and can double as a goal for mini-matches. Plus, its included boundary markers are handy for setting up passing relays and target games.
For families or casual players, the Kickit Soccer Tennis set is a fantastic all-in-one option. It comes with a net, ball, pump, and carry bag, making it easy to transport and set up on any beach.
If you’re on a budget, start with the Kickit Trainers. These are great for juggling contests and dribbling challenges. You can always add a net system later once you've tried out different activities and found your favorites.
Conclusion
Beach soccer offers an exciting way to stay active while improving your athletic abilities. According to research, 77.4% of players report better ball control, and 80.6% experience noticeable gains in agility and adaptability. Beyond being a fun pastime, it’s a fantastic training method that sharpens your skills and enhances physical fitness.
Playing on sand isn’t just challenging - it’s incredibly rewarding. The soft, unstable surface forces your legs, glutes, and core to work harder, increasing aerobic and anaerobic energy expenditure by 1.5 and 2.5 times, respectively. This natural resistance builds strength and endurance while improving your technique, making you a better player on traditional fields.
But beach soccer isn’t just about fitness; it’s about creating memories. The laid-back beach vibe invites everyone to join in, no matter their skill level. Activities like passing drills and mini-matches encourage teamwork and communication, bringing people closer through shared fun and challenges.
Getting started is easy. Bring along a Kickit Soccer Tennis set on your next beach outing, and you can transform a lazy day into an active adventure in under a minute. The portable setup lets you dive straight into games like soccer tennis or target challenges, all while improving balance and coordination on the sand. Plus, the forgiving surface reduces the risk of injuries, so you can play hard without worry.
This summer, trade lounging for playing. Grab a ball, invite your friends and family, and turn your beach day into a lively mix of fitness, skill-building, and unforgettable fun.
FAQs
What are the advantages of playing soccer on the beach compared to a grass field?
Playing soccer on the beach brings a whole new twist to the game, offering benefits you won’t find on a standard grass field. The soft, shifting sand adds extra resistance to your movements, giving your core and leg muscles a serious workout while building stamina. It’s also a great way to sharpen your agility and balance since the uneven surface forces you to adjust with every step.
On top of that, sand is much easier on your joints compared to harder surfaces, which means less impact stress and a reduced chance of injury. It’s also perfect for recovery days, offering a low-impact yet effective way to stay active. And let’s not forget - playing on the beach combines fitness with the joy of soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. It’s exercise that feels like a mini-vacation!
How can I play soccer tennis on the beach without a portable net?
If you don’t have a portable net, setting up a soccer tennis game is easier than you might think. You can create a makeshift "net" using a rope, string, or even a beach towel. Simply tie it between two sturdy poles or use existing structures like beach chairs or umbrellas. Adjust the height to make it suitable for gameplay. To keep everything stable, anchor the poles firmly in the sand by burying their bases or using weights. With this simple setup, you can jump right into the game without any special gear.
What are some beginner-friendly tips for improving soccer skills while playing on the beach?
For those just starting out, playing on sand is an excellent way to develop ball control and coordination. Begin with simple drills like juggling or dribbling to get comfortable with the challenges of the uneven surface. You can also work on short passes or take shots with friends to refine your technique while keeping things enjoyable and low-pressure.
If you want to improve your fitness for beach soccer, try light conditioning activities like jogging or jumping on the sand. These exercises can help build strength and endurance, making it easier to handle the physical demands of the game. Above all, focus on having fun and embracing the experience - your skills will naturally improve as you practice!
