The 13 Best Beach Games of 2023
Best Overall - Bucket Ball
Best Budget Game - Hoyle Waterproof Clear Playing Cards
Best Premium Beach Game - Spikeball Pro
Finding the best beach games for a day at the beach can be a hassle. Too many games end up sitting in the garage unused because they were fun for an hour, and then everyone got bored. If you want to make the most of your money and time on the beach, you need to focus on the best beach games.
We’ve researched some of the best beach games based on sales and overall popularity. After giving every game we could find a try, we’re cutting out the ones that seemed too hard, were too expensive or, most of all, were just not enough fun. Ultimately, we narrowed our list down to the 13 best beach games that get top marks in different categories. That way, we have a recommendation no matter who you’re going to the beach with or what you plan to do.
Our list covers games for you and other adults, games for the family, games for couples, and, of course, games for kids. Whatever you might be looking for, we’ll tell you all about the best beach games you can buy.
How We Rate the Games
Every game we recommend gets scored on a 10-point scale that covers 7 unique attributes we think are vital to any beach game. One means it ranks low and does not represent that attribute well, and 10 means it hits the nail on the head and perfectly meets the criteria.
Ease of Use: How easy is it to get the hang of the game? Can a new player pick it up quickly, or is there a complicated set of instructions?
Portability: This is a beach game, so is it easy to pack in the car and carry down to the sand, or is it clunky and full of parts that can get lost and misplaced?
Durability: On the beach, you have sand and sun, and water. Lots of people are around, kids may be playing rough, and your dog may even be there. Can the game stand up to some strenuous use or not?
Interactivity: Does the game let you work with others in a fun way? Are there ways to make it more fun by doing more and with more people? Do you need teamwork, communication, and strategy or is it just really straightforward?
Adaptability: Can you tweak the game to allow more players or different play styles to maximize fun in different situations? Or does the game only work if played one certain way?
Fun Factor: Maybe the most important criterion of all. Is this game fun to play? Will it become a must-bring beach game or something you forget by next year?
Price: Finally, a big factor for a lot of people, is the game affordable? Regardless of price, is it worth the money?
Best Beach Game with a Ball
TidalBall
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Tidal Ball really took the world by storm in the last few years. On a busy beach you can almost guarantee someone has one with them these days. The set up takes a little longer than some games, but once you get into it, you can have a lot of fun.
The rules are fast and loose; you can alter them as you like or go by the book. You can play it on teams, kind of like corn hole, and point totals vary depending on whether you get your ball in the hole or the surrounding trench.
Super lightweight and easy to pack and carry around, you can get a game going quickly anywhere. One thing to be aware of is that almost everyone I’ve talked to was surprised when they saw the game in person about how small and lightweight it was. It does seem to be a little undersized for the money.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Can be played both in and out of the water
- Everything comes enclosed in its own mesh bag
Cons
- Set is pricy for what you get
Best Beach Game for Families
Himal Collapsible Corn Hole
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Corn hole is a classic game that everyone knows, and families have been playing the game for decades. Himal’s version of the game is designed for portability and simplicity, making it perfect for beach play. Gone is the clunky wooden platform in favor of a lightweight and easy-to-use polyester and foldable wire one.
The kit includes beanbags, two platforms, tie-down stakes, and a carrying case. You can set the game up in minutes and play in no time.
Pros
- Comes with stakes, corn hole boards, bags, and carrying case
- Quick to assemble
- Has a lightweight, portable, aid innovative design
Cons
- Some users complain that the board causes too much bean bag bouncing
- May not entice younger gamers after a while
Best Overall - Bucket Ball
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Bucket Ball took the world by storm in the last few years, and for good reason. It’s simple, it’s fun, and you can play it everywhere. The beach, the yard, tailgate parties, you name it.Â
You play the game with Beer Pong rules. Bounce a ball into a bucket. Your kit comes with 6 orange buckets, 6 blue buckets, 2 hybrid balls, 2 bucket pong balls, 2 tailgate balls, a tote bag, easy-to-follow instructions, and a Lifetime Warranty. Each type of ball alters the game play a little or lets you play in different conditions.
This game is super addictive, and people will line up to join in if you bust it out in a crowd. Great value for the money and tons of fun. It’s easy to learn, and almost anyone can do it.
If there was a downside, it might be that the set up can get repetitive, especially if you’re prying buckets apart or adjusting their position. Also, you may get winded chasing errant balls.
Pros
- Three ball options availableÂ
- Can be played in all weather, including the snow
- Portable and can be stacked in the carrying case for easy moving
Cons
- Buckets can be hard to separate
- Balls are easy to lose track of
Best Budget Game - Hoyle Waterproof Clear Playing Cards
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There’s a reason millions of people play cards in the world – there are a million games to play! These waterproof cards from Hoyle are a perfect addition to any beach bag for those wanting to play anything from Blackjack to Gin Rummy to Go Fish!
Printed on plastic card stock, they offer good durability in wet and sandy conditions for normal play. They’re easy to read and won’t slip out of your grip even when wet.
Keep an eye out for a couple of potential drawbacks, including the fact these guys don’t float. Don’t take them too deep! Also, the print can scratch off a little easier than you might think.
If you and your friends are card players, you’ll find these an invaluable asset that never gets old at an unbeatable price.
Pros
- Wash up well
- Easy to read
- Waterproof
Cons
- Print can scratch off over time
- Cards do not float
Best Beach Sports Game - Kan Jam
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Kan Jam has proven to be a big hit with gamers all over the world. It takes tired old Frisbee games to the next level with something that uses skill and luck and a lot of fun. It comes in numerous designs, including light-up versions for playing in the evening.
As a team outdoor game, it has similarities to corn hole but with a Frisbee twist. You and your partner work together to get your disc in the can. The first team to 21 wins, and there are different point totals for different hits and closeness, kind of like horseshoes.
As popular and fun as the game is, watch out for the cans as they’re rolled plastic you need to assemble yourself. If you don’t secure them right, they can pop apart, disappointing a few players.
Pros
- Rules are simple and easy to follow
- Light-up version is great for nighttime play
- Great team sport for both kids and adults
Cons
- Cans can tip over in the wind
- Construction not the highest quality
Best Beach Game for Adults - Kubb Game Set
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Never heard of Kubb? Don’t worry, it’s still fairly new for most people, but it’s worth your time. It can be a little more difficult to wrap your head around than some games, so we’re recommending this one for adults more than kids.
Said to be based on a game created by the Vikings, Kubb blends elements of corn hole, bocce ball, and even horseshoes and chess. Players take turns tossing blocks at their opponent’s set up in an attempt to take out the King. Knocked over blocks become defenders of your own King.Â
You’ll need skill and luck, and some quick thinking to excel, which makes every round unpredictable and fun.Â
The game comes with all the durable wooden pieces and a carrying bag. It’s also totally eco-friendly!
Pros
- Can be a game of luck or of strategyÂ
- Made with eco-friendly materials
- Well-built kit
Cons
- Instructions can be tough to follow
Best Premium Beach Game - Spikeball Pro
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Spikeball debuted on the show Shark Tank so it already had a great publicity boost. It plays like a twist on volleyball, where players bounce the orange-sized balls off of a net. You can play on teams and there are a few twists to gameplay for those interested. Gameplay can range from basic to intense, depending on your skill and interest.
As a team game, this is another one that brings people together. It also draws a crowd, and the fun factor will surprise you. You don’t get bored of this game easily; new people always want to play.Â
The net setup can take a little time and it’s not always as durable as you may like, so watch out for that. But once things are up and running, you’re going to have a blast. As a premium game, the price can be foreboding, but if you love outdoor games this is a must have.
Pros
- Great team play
- Big attention getter
- Really easy for anyone to get into
Cons
- One of the more expensive games
- Setting up the net and stretching it out can be a hassle
Best "Out There" Beach Game - Throw Throw Burrito
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Have you ever played Exploding Kittens? If you have, you’re already going to love Throw Throw Burrito. You’re in for a weird and wonderful treat if you haven’t. This game is bizarre, so don’t expect the traditional beach game that hasn’t changed in 50 years.Â
Throw Throw Burrito mixes a quirky card game with dodgeball and, you know, burritos. Fake ones, anyway. It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but if you want a real conversation starter that can be a ton of fun, give it a try.
This fun beach game is best for a crowd of like-minded friends or family. You need to collect matching cards faster than your opponents while dodging plush burritos that are coming your way. If the burrito hits you, you lose your cards.
Pros
- Very unique
- Guaranteed to have people laughing
- Great party game for all ages
Cons
- Some people report issues with the burritos tearing
Best Board Game for the Beach - Beach Checkers
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Board games and beaches do not go hand in hand. Most games are designed to be played indoors, but this checkers set takes full advantage of the beach environment for something fun and different. It’s not just a checkerboard, either. Flip it over and you also have a couple of Tic Tac Toe boards to use.Â
The reversible rug can be machine washed. Lay it out on the beach like any blanket and use the oversized checkers to play any of the games. Everything is big and easy to see to help prevent losing pieces by accident. If the rug gets sandy or wet, no big deal! It’s no different than any beach towel.
Checkers and Tic Tac Toe may not be the most innovative games in the world, but when you just want to lay down under the umbrella with a cool drink, you barely need to move to have a game. That’s a big plus after spending an hour or two swimming, BBQing or playing more intense games. Plus, kids love Tic Tac Toe, and it’s easy for them to master.
Pros
- Easy, lazy fun
- Big pieces are easy to keep track of
- Lightweight and very portable
Cons
- May not hold everyone’s attention for long
Best Beach Game for Couples - Frescobol
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Finding a good game for couples to play on the beach is not always easy. Are there games for two people? Plenty of them. Heck, frisbee or tossing a football is a game for two. But a couples game should have another dynamic and there’s where Frescobol comes in.
Unlike nearly every other game you can think of that takes two players, you’re not against your opponent here. Frescobol works best as a team effort. The two of you are working together, rallying back and forth, to keep the ball up for as long as you can. The better you work as a couple, the better your hand eye coordination, the longer you’ll keep the ball in play.
The set has a carrying bag, balls, and unique paddles made from multiple types of wood that make them not just functional but eye catching as well. The price is a little steep but they’re good quality and should last a long time.
Pros
- Fun game that is cooperative rather than pitting you against each other
- Great looking set
- Challenging dynamic
Cons
- Definitely a pricier game than some
Best Beach Game for Teens - Skip Ball
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Picking a beach game to keep teens interested is no easy task. You want something fun, but if it’s too structured, it can become off-putting for a lot of teens. Too simple or old fashioned and they might find it boring. So how do you know what to choose?
For all the games I tested, I had my neighbor’s kids give them a spin by their pool. An 18-year-old, a 16-year-old, and their 15-year-old cousin gave everything a try, and sometimes a few friends joined in if they were around. The biggest hit turned out to be Skip Ball and that’s why it ranks here.
The game is very simple and involves skipping a ball across the water. It’s playing catch with a rock-skipping twist. How can that be a hit with teens? Because they can chat with friends, grab a drink, joke around, and goof off without really missing a beat. It’s not overly taxing but can keep your interest and still be fun no matter what happens. Plus, you can play from in the water or outside, so no one has to be uncomfortable during gameplay.
The price is reasonable, there aren’t a ton of parts to lose or carry around, and it keeps kids interested.
Pros
- Great value
- Simple but still fun
- Cool twist on an old idea
Cons
- Stitching is a little questionable on some of the balls from what I’ve seen
Best Beach Game for Kids - Flying Ring
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Any parent knows that keeping kids busy is a full time job. If you don’t want them buried in a screen, it’s even harder. You need easy, fun ideas to keep a kid busy sometimes, and the Flying Ring can do just that. Will it keep them engaged for 3 hours? Maybe not, but it should definitely get them active and enjoying the beach for a while.
Essentially the same as a Frisbee, the Flying Ring is kid-friendly and easier to catch thanks to the ring versus disc design. With the simplicity of the design, kids stay engaged longer because they don’t feel like it’s too hard to catch. Add in some fun trick throws you can learn and splashing around in the water, you have a full day at the beach that’s super affordable, too.
Pros
- Great price
- Extremely portable and easy to use
- Simple but still fun
Cons
- May get boring for kids used to playing video games and watching Tik Tok
Best New Beach Game - Sandy Pickle pickleball
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Pickleball was invented in 1965, but its popularity has gone off the charts in the last few years. With the public at large just getting into the game, it’s no wonder someone has capitalized on the idea by introducing a portable beach version.Â
Sandy Pickle removes the court and puts the game in the sand as the name suggests. The kit has everything you need to set up a court on the beach and start play for four players. You get paddles, balls, net, posts, boundary markers, the whole deal.
Like a mix of tennis, ping pong, and badminton, Sandy Pickle also throws hints of beach volleyball into the mix for a fast, fun game sure to draw attention. Is it just another flash-in-the-pan fad? Time will tell, but it’s definitely fast becoming one of the biggest new games to hit the beach in years.
Pros
- Trendy game that draws attention
- Keeps you really active
- Lots of fun
Cons
- Price is very high
- Lots of parts to keep track of
How to Find the Perfect Summer Beach Games: A Helpful Buying GuideÂ
So how do you know which of these games is going to suit you and your family best? Always keep in mind a few factors that will paint your decision one way or the other.Â
Age and Number of Players
I would consider this the biggest factor for beach games. If you’re a 22-year-old guy hanging out with your buddies, you may want something intense you can play while having some beers. If you’re a 40-year-old mom you may just want something to keep the kids busy. So the age of the players and how many of them are playing is a big deal.
Kids can play every game we have picked, we didn’t include any beach drinking games. That said, not every game is best for kids, which is why we have a best kid game category and a best teen game. Kids usually want something easy and fun. You, as a parent, probably also want it to be durable and not have a ton of parts that can go missing.Â
The games we recommended for adults are only recommended that way because they may be a little more complex. You know your kids best, though. If they can pick up on games that have stricter rules or more intense gameplay, give it a spin!
Likewise, the number of players can really alter what works best. That deck of plastic playing cards could be good for up to 6 people depending on what game you play. But Frescobol can only be played by two unless you buy more sets.
Materials
If durability was an issue that I was aware of, I called it out in the reviews. Some games are a little flimsier than they seem at first glance, so always be mindful of that. If you’re looking at a game I didn’t review here, always check to see what the product is made of. Some things handle beaches better than others.Â
Look for products made from things like PVC or other waterproof materials. Wood and rubber are good in the sand and surf, too. They can handle some hard gameplay, and they will float.
AssemblyÂ
Many people overlook this, but you’ll want to keep it in your mind. The more pieces a game has, the longer it takes to put together, and the more likely you’ll lose something. The quicker and easier to put together, the better.Â
Portability and SizeÂ
Packing is arguably the worst part of a beach trip. You may end up with a cooler, a bunch of towels, umbrellas, sunscreen, beach chairs, and a dozen other things. Games need to be portable just as a matter of practicality. More than that, you want it to be easy to carry from the car to the beach.
Sometimes we don’t think of this until it’s too late. Always check the dimensions – size, and weight. Make sure it’ll fit easily in the car, and make sure you can carry it to and from the beach without breaking your back.Â
The Bottom Line
Some beach games really click at different times than others. You’ll want different games on a family beach vacation than on one with your best friends. If you spend lots of time on the beach, you’ll probably want a wide variety of games to keep things interesting. If the beach is a special occasion, then maybe just one or two games will be best. You may be good to just play catch one day but you’ll want some really entertaining beach games another.
Your best bet for choosing the perfect beach game is to check with friends, family, and online reviews from sites you try. See what other people have to say about their own experiences. You know what sounds fun to you better than anyone, so plan accordingly and you’ll find your favorite beach game in no time.
Categories: Reviews