Beach volleyball holiday relaxation: why sand makes you so happy

Barefoot in warm sand, the ball in the air, the sea in the background and people to laugh with: for many, a beach volleyball holiday doesn't feel like sport, but like relaxation with movement. Why is that?

We take a look at what sand does to your body, why team sport feels so good and why a camp with us feels like a holiday for many guests, even though they play every day. (As of: October 2026)

What does sand do to your body?

Sand challenges your whole body without you feeling it as an effort. The surface is soft and unstable, so your feet, legs and core constantly have to stabilise. That's why the German health insurer Techniker Krankenkasse describes beach volleyball as an effective full-body workout.

Soft sand also absorbs energy and gives little back when you push off, which is why even a short walk on the beach is sometimes more tiring than you'd think.

Then there's the feeling of playing barefoot. You feel the ground, you're directly connected to the beach and you think less about technique than about the next ball.

Why does team sport feel so good?

In a large analysis, team sport is linked to fewer bad-mood days. The study, published in the journal Lancet Psychiatry in 2018, analysed data from over 1.2 million US adults. People who played team sports reported around 22 percent fewer days of poor mental health.

It's important to put this in context: the study shows a correlation, not a cause. So it could also be that people in a good mood are more likely to arrange to play sport. But the figure fits what we see at camp: people who play together laugh more.

Beach volleyball is ideal for this, because you're never alone. Your partner is always within reach, and every rally is a little team project.

How does sport turn into a holiday?

Sport turns into a holiday when the pressure disappears. You don't have to prove anything, deliver a result or follow a plan. You play because you enjoy it.

With us, several things come together for this: beach and sea right in front of you, games in the sun, relaxed breaks and people who share the same idea of a holiday. Our short description: top coaches, nice people, chilled atmosphere, small groups.

In Spain (Sunsation Beach in Gandía) there's only morning training. The afternoon is yours, for reading, swimming or doing nothing. Not every camp is scheduled like this, so it doesn't automatically apply to all locations.

What should you watch out for in the sun on the beach?

Light sand also reflects UV radiation, so sun protection on the beach is especially important. Reapplying doesn't extend the protection, it only maintains it – so put on sunscreen before playing and refresh it regularly.

Also drink regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty right now. A water bottle at the side of the court is the easiest solution.

Who is this for?

For everyone who fancies movement and beach, but without performance ambitions. You don't need any prior knowledge of technique, just the urge to play with others.

At the tournaments you can compete as a fixed duo or find a tournament partner spontaneously on site. If you bring someone who'd rather not play, they can come along as a travel companion.

Frequently asked questions

Is beach volleyball healthy?

Beach volleyball is a full-body workout that challenges your feet, legs, core and arms. If you have health questions, it's best to talk to your doctor.

Do I need to be fit to take part?

No. You don't need performance ambitions. We play in small groups, and grouping is done via a player questionnaire before you arrive.

Why does playing in the sand feel so relaxing?

Because movement, sun, sea and company come together. The research shows a link between team sport and better mood, but not a cause.

Can I come on holiday without playing?

Yes, as a travel companion. You then don't have to train or take part in tournaments, and spend your time, for example, in the chill area on the beach or on beach walks.

Conclusion

Sand doesn't automatically make you happy, but it makes it easy: playing barefoot, laughing with nice people and clearing your head along the way. That's exactly why many camps feel like a holiday, even though everyone plays sport every day.

Curious? You'll find all camps and dates on volleytours.com/en/camps-events. See you at the net: come as a player, leave as a friend.