You’ve probably heard of handball—but have you ever heard of sandball? This team sport is the beach version of handball: played on sand, with a lighter ball, under the sun, barefoot, and in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Born in France, sandball has earned a solid spot on seaside courts, combining sport, fun, and team spirit.
Fun, physical, and ultra-accessible, it attracts thousands of players every summer—female or mixed teams—in tournaments where spectacular goals replace the pressure of traditional championships. A real summer sport that appeals to handball clubs as well as fans of football, basketball, rugby, or other outdoor team sports.
Here’s everything you need to know about this sand-based game that’s become a summer staple among team sports.
What exactly is sandball?
Sandball is the beach version of handball. This summer sport is played on sand—often by the sea—with simplified rules that emphasize fun, showmanship, and team spirit. Less competitive and more about enjoying the game, it appeals to both clubs and casual players.
Here’s what sets sandball apart from indoor handball:
- No physical contact allowed between players
- Matches played in 2 sets of 10 minutes
- Bonus points for spectacular moves (e.g., kung-fu shots, acrobatic goals)
- Shootout duels in case of a tie
- Smaller court (around 27 × 12 meters) with netting behind the goals
- Referees are present, but in a relaxed, festive atmosphere
It’s above all a friendly beach game that mixes sport, fun, and fair play. Sandball stands out for its accessibility, short format, and spectacular actions.
A short history of sandball
Born in France in the 1990s, sandball was created by handball clubs looking to extend their season into the summer. Inspired by handball, the game moved to the sand, with a lighter ball and a relaxed vibe. Tournaments quickly started popping up on beaches from Normandy to the south, along the Atlantic coast.
Today, sandball brings together teams of young people, adults, boys and girls, both licensed athletes and vacationers, for matches full of acrobatic goals. It has become an inclusive beach sport, helping maintain physical activity, build team cohesion, and share fun moments outdoors.
What gear do you need to play sandball?
The good news is, you don’t need much to enjoy a sandball match outdoors. This beach sport is designed to be accessible, fun, and easy to organize, whether in a club, at school, or with friends.
Here’s the basic equipment:
- a special sandball, softer and slightly textured for a better grip even with sand
- two portable beach or beach handball goals
- cones, tape, or lines to mark the field
- a pair of sunglasses (optional… but useful under the sun)
- and most importantly: a good dose of team energy!
Some all-in-one kits include one or two balls, court marking equipment, and even a net behind the goals—ideal for sports programs, handball clubs, or beach events in summer.
Why is sandball so popular?
In just a few years, sandball has become one of the most popular beach sports in France, thanks to its accessibility, dynamic format, and fun atmosphere. Suited for clubs, amateur players, women’s teams, and young athletes, it blends fun, fitness, and teamwork.
Why does it work so well?
- Easy to pick up, even for beginners or those unfamiliar with handball
- Short matches (2 sets of 10 minutes), ideal for a fast pace
- Core strength, reactivity, and muscle endurance are challenged on the sand
- Spectacular goals (kung-fu, acrobatic shots) are rewarded with bonus points
- Minimal gear required: a ball, two goals, and some cones can create a full field
- No gym, club, or expensive gear needed—sandball is accessible sport
Summer tournaments welcome handball teams, rugby, basketball, football players, or fans of any team sport who want to stay active while having fun. You’ll also see families, groups of teens, and players of all genders ready to play with their sunglasses, ball, and plenty of sand energy.
Where can you play sandball in France?
Sandball is played on many set-up beaches across France, especially in summer, when clubs, associations, and local communities organize open events. This sport is now supported by various local and national bodies.
A few ways to get involved:
- Official tournaments run by the French Handball Federation, a key promoter of the sport
- Multi-sport festivals along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, with sand courts and match areas
- Summer sport programs with balls, goals, nets, and marked playing zones
- Handball clubs that include sandball in their summer training routines as a complement to indoor sessions
To play, all you need is a clear open space, some cones, a suitable ball, a net, and a bit of team spirit. This team sport requires no permanent facilities or expensive gear: a couple of balls, two beach goals, and you’re good to go for a fun-filled sandball game.
And what about safety?
Even on sand, risks exist: sprains, slips, collisions… As with any physical activity, it’s essential to be well prepared and properly insured. Whether you’re playing an official tournament or just a game with friends, having appropriate sports insurance is key to enjoying the sport safely and with peace of mind.
