A trip to the beach with kids is more than just swimming and building sandcastles—it’s a chance for them to run, compete, and have adventures they’ll talk about long after summer ends. For parents, finding the right games can make all the difference in turning a normal beach day into a memorable one. Boys, in particular, often thrive on fast-paced activities, skill-based challenges, and games that let them burn off energy while having a blast with friends or family.

This year, a mix of new and classic beach games is capturing kids’ attention. From action-packed favorites to games that blend strategy with speed, these top picks for 2025 are perfect for keeping boys entertained on the sand for hours. Here are the must-have games to bring along on your next beach trip.

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1. Thruball – The New Must-Play Game of 2025

Thruball is one of the most exciting new games to hit beaches this summer, and kids can’t get enough of it. Designed for two teams of two, the game centers around a raised gate placed between players. The goal is simple: rally the ball back and forth, sending it cleanly through the gate to score while trying to outsmart and outplay the other team.

What makes Thruball stand out for boys is its fast pace and simple rules. It takes just a few minutes to set up and explain, yet it can be played for hours without getting old. It encourages running, diving, teamwork, and precision—all things active kids love. Because the game is lightweight and portable, it’s easy to toss in a beach bag and set up anywhere, making it a top pick for 2025 family outings.

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2. Spikeball – Fast, Competitive, and Always Fun

Few beach games have achieved the popularity of Spikeball, and it remains a staple for a reason. Played on a low circular net, Spikeball is all about quick reactions, teamwork, and fast-paced rallies. Teams take turns spiking the ball at the net, aiming to make it unreturnable, leading to intense bursts of action and plenty of sand-flying dives.

For boys who love competition and a challenge, Spikeball is a go-to choice. It’s easy to learn but hard to master, giving kids a chance to improve their skills over time while still having fun right away. The game’s compact design makes it simple to bring along to the beach, and it can be played casually or with tournament-style scoring for older kids who crave a little more intensity.

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3. PutterBall – Precision and Friendly Rivalry

If your son enjoys games that test focus and accuracy, PutterBall is a fantastic addition to your beach game lineup. Combining elements of mini-golf and cornhole, players use small putters to sink golf balls into a six-hole board before their opponents can do the same. The game is lighthearted but competitive, perfect for boys who like a challenge that doesn’t require sprinting or diving.

Parents love PutterBall because it’s simple to set up, safe for all ages, and easy to learn. It offers a change of pace between high-energy activities, letting kids compete in a more relaxed setting while still keeping them engaged. It’s also an excellent game for siblings or parent-child matches, making it a versatile option for a full day at the beach.

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4. Beersbee (Kid-Friendly Version) – Frisbee Target Practice

Beersbee is traditionally known as a backyard party game, but it works just as well for kids with a few tweaks. Instead of glass bottles or cans, you can use lightweight plastic bottles or toys balanced on top of poles planted in the sand. The goal is to throw a frisbee at your opponent’s pole, knocking off the target or making the other team miss the catch to score points.

This game is a hit with boys because it’s active, competitive, and easy to set up anywhere. It sharpens throwing accuracy, improves reflexes, and encourages quick decision-making. Plus, it’s endlessly replayable—you can adjust the distance, add rules for trick shots, or play in teams for a bigger challenge.

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5. PaddleSmash – A New Spin on Paddle Games

PaddleSmash is another rising star for 2025, combining the best parts of paddleball and Spikeball into one exciting game. It’s played with small paddles and a foam ball over a net on the ground, with teams aiming to keep the ball in motion through controlled hits and well-placed smashes. It’s fast, strategic, and packed with action, making it a favorite among energetic kids who like a challenge.

PaddleSmash is ideal for boys who enjoy sports like tennis, ping-pong, or pickleball but want something portable and beach-friendly. It helps develop hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and quick reflexes, all while keeping things light and fun. Like the other games on this list, it’s easy to carry, quick to set up, and guaranteed to draw a crowd once the first rally starts.

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Final Thoughts

The beach is the ultimate playground, and the right games can take a fun day in the sun to the next level. Boys love activities that let them compete, move fast, and try new challenges, and the five games above deliver exactly that. Thruball is shaping up to be the breakout hit of 2025, but classics like Spikeball and Beersbee, along with newer options like PutterBall and PaddleSmash, guarantee non-stop entertainment from morning to evening.

So, when you pack your cooler and towels this summer, throw one or two of these games in the mix. With the right setup, your son won’t just have a great day at the beach—he’ll have the kind of day he’ll remember all summer long.