There’s something magical about a summer day at the beach. The sound of crashing waves, the warm sun on your skin, and the feeling of sand between your toes—it’s the perfect backdrop for fun and connection. And while a good book and a beach chair have their place, nothing beats the energy of a great beach game to bring people together. Whether you’re headed to the shore with family, a big group of friends, or just a few competitive spirits looking to settle some scores, having the right games on hand can turn an ordinary beach day into one you’ll remember long after summer fades.

This year, 2025 is introducing new ways to play in the sand. Old favorites are still holding strong, but a few newcomers are stealing the spotlight—especially Thruball, the fast-paced game that’s popping up on beaches across the country. From high-energy competition to laid-back social fun, here are the top five beach games you’ll want to pack for your next trip to the shore this summer.

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1️⃣ Thruball – The Game Everyone Will Be Talking About

If you haven’t heard of Thruball yet, you’re about to see it everywhere. This new game is quickly becoming the hottest trend of summer 2025 thanks to its fast pace, easy setup, and incredible replayability. Thruball combines the best aspects of volleyball and pickleball, but with its own unique twist. Two teams of two face off across a center gate, and the goal is simple yet addictive: hit the ball cleanly through the gate so the opposing team can’t return it. Each side gets up to three touches before sending the ball back, making every round a mix of quick thinking, teamwork, and perfectly timed hits.

What sets Thruball apart is how easy it is for anyone to jump in and play, even total beginners. The rules are simple, the equipment is lightweight and portable, and setup takes just a few minutes. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—the more you play, the more you’ll discover ways to strategize, improve your accuracy, and challenge your friends to longer, more intense rallies. It’s a game that works just as well for a casual beach day with kids as it does for a high-energy competition with friends. If you try only one new game this summer, make it Thruball—you won’t regret it.

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2️⃣ Spikeball – The Tried-and-True Favorite

Spikeball has earned its place as a beach day staple, and 2025 is no exception. This high-energy game is played in teams of two around a small, circular net. The goal is to spike the ball off the net so your opponents can’t return it, keeping rallies fast, unpredictable, and full of action. It’s a game that challenges your agility, reflexes, and teamwork, but is so easy to learn that anyone can pick it up in minutes.

One of the reasons Spikeball has remained popular for years is its portable, travel-friendly design. The entire set fits in a small bag, making it easy to toss in the trunk or carry to your beach spot. It’s also endlessly replayable—games can be short and sweet or go on for hours, with players diving across the sand for last-second saves and cheering on big wins. Whether you’re playing casually or running your own mini tournament, Spikeball is guaranteed to draw a crowd and deliver nonstop laughs.

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3️⃣ PutterBall – Chill Vibes, Competitive Fun

If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed but still packed with friendly rivalry, PutterBall is a must-have this summer. Think of it as a cross between mini-golf and cornhole, where two teams face off using putters to sink golf balls into a six-hole board. The rules are straightforward, but the competition can heat up quickly as players aim for tricky shots and try to out-putt the other team.

PutterBall shines because it’s easygoing, social, and fun for all skill levels. You don’t need to be a pro golfer to play—in fact, half the fun is in the misses, laughs, and unexpected trick shots that keep everyone entertained. It’s a fantastic choice for group beach days when you want something less physically demanding than running and diving, but still engaging enough to get everyone involved. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a cold drink in hand and some good music in the background, making it the ultimate laid-back beach game.

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4️⃣ Beersbee – Frisbee Fun with a Twist

There’s a reason Beersbee, also known as Polish Horseshoes, has been a beach classic for years—it’s simple, hilarious, and endlessly fun. The game is set up with two poles planted firmly in the sand, each topped with a bottle or can. Teams take turns tossing a frisbee at the opposing pole, aiming to knock the bottle off or force the other team to miss a catch. Points are scored for successful hits or drops, and while the rules are easy to follow, the action gets competitive fast.

What makes Beersbee a summer favorite is its perfect balance of skill and silliness. You’ll see incredible dives, wild throws, and plenty of playful trash talk as teams go back and forth. It’s ideal for big beach gatherings where people can rotate in and out, and while it’s often paired with adult beverages, it can be just as fun with a soda in hand. If you want a game that delivers both laughs and a little friendly fire, Beersbee is the one to bring along.

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5️⃣ Beach Bocce – A Timeless Classic

Sometimes the best games are the simplest ones, and Beach Bocce has stood the test of time for a reason. Players take turns tossing bocce balls toward a smaller target ball, called the pallino, trying to get as close as possible. The soft, shifting sand adds a fun challenge to every throw, making accuracy tricky and giving even first-timers a chance to win against seasoned players.

Beach Bocce is low-key and perfect for all ages, making it an easy choice for families, mixed-age groups, or anyone who wants a game that doesn’t require running or diving. It’s the kind of activity you can pick up and put down throughout the day, playing a few rounds between swims, snack breaks, or long beach walks. Simple, social, and relaxing, it’s a must-have for anyone who prefers a laid-back beach vibe with just a touch of competition.

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🌊 Final Thoughts

The best beach days are the ones filled with laughter, friendly rivalries, and games that get everyone in on the action. This summer, there are more options than ever to make your time on the sand unforgettable. Thruball is set to be the breakout game of 2025, offering fast-paced fun that’s easy for anyone to learn and hard to stop playing. Pair it with classics like Spikeball, Bocce, Beersbee, or a chill game of PutterBall, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a perfect day at the shore.

So, when you’re packing for the beach this year, don’t just bring a towel and sunscreen—throw in one of these top games and get ready for a summer full of fun, laughter, and maybe even a little bragging rights among friends.