Where to Play Beach Volleyball in NYC: The Ultimate Sand Court Guide
- Josh Schwartz
- 1 hour ago
- 4 min read
New York City may be a concrete jungle, but it's also a great place to play beach volleyball... if you know where to look. From riverfront piers to real ocean beaches — and yes, even indoor sand — there are plenty of ways to bump, set, and spike in the Big Apple.
Whether you’re a die-hard player chasing the perfect serve or just looking for a fun, social game with friends, here’s your complete guide to beach volleyball in NYC — starting, of course, with the city’s only indoor beach.
🥇 1. QBK Sports (Queens — Indoor Beach Volleyball, Year-Round)
When it comes to sand, QBK Sports is in a league of its own. Located in Long Island City, QBK Sports is NYC’s only indoor beach volleyball facility, with three full-size sand courts, a bar,
and lounge — all under one roof.
✅ Play year-round: Rain or shine, snow or heat wave, the sand is always perfect here.
🏐 Leagues, classes, and drop-ins: Options for every skill level. Plus youth programs!
🍹 Beach-bar vibes: Post-game food & drinks make it a true community hub.
📍 41-20 39th St, Queens, NY 11104 👉 Learn more at qbksports.com
💡 Pro tip: QBK is also the perfect backup when outdoor courts close for weather or winter — no off-season here.
🌇 2. Pier 25 — Hudson River Park (Manhattan)
One of NYC’s most popular sand courts, Pier 25 offers three regulation-size beach volleyball courts right on the Hudson River.
🌆 Location: TriBeCa / Hudson River Park
💡 Lighting: Yes — play into the evening.
📅 How to play: Rent courts via Manhattan Youth or drop in for community sessions.
💰 Cost: Paid reservations during peak hours; free community play slots available
💡 Pro tip: These fill up fast — book in advance, especially on weekends.
🌉 3. Pier 6 — Brooklyn Bridge Park (Brooklyn)
On the Brooklyn waterfront, Pier 6 offers a picturesque setting for competitive and social play alike.
🏖️ Three sand courts with scenic skyline views.
🕶️ Leagues: Big City Volleyball runs adult beach leagues here (4v4, 6v6).
🕓 Drop-in play: Available when no permit / league is active.
🏞️ 4. Riverside Park / “Hudson Beach” (Upper West Side)
Tucked away near 105th Street, this riverside setup is a local favorite for pickup games.
👥 Usually first-come, first-served.
🏐 Bring your own ball (and sometimes your own net).
🌳 Relaxed, neighborhood vibe — great for casual weekend games.
🏝️ 5. Rockaway Beach (Queens)
If you want a true “toes-in-the-sand” experience, head to Rockaway Beach — NYC’s most famous stretch of oceanfront volleyball.
🌊 Courts located at Beach 26th, 73rd, and 108th Streets.
🏆 Occasional tournaments & pop-up leagues.
🚊 Easy to reach via A Train or NYC Ferry.
💡 Pro tip: Bring your own ball and expect crowds on sunny weekends.
🌳 6. Central Park (East of Sheep Meadow)
Yes, even Central Park has sand courts! You’ll find them east of Sheep Meadow.
🏐 Two sand courts, open seasonally.
🕓 First-come, first-served basis.
📝 Permits needed for large groups / organized events.
🌆 7. Domino Park (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
This newer Williamsburg waterfront park has one sand volleyball court — small but sleek.
🌇 Urban backdrop with lights for night play.
🕶️ Perfect for smaller groups and after-work games.
📍 Right on the East River, near North 5th Street Pier.
💡 Pro tip: Only one court — arrive early or be ready to rotate!
🌅 8. Orchard Beach (Bronx)
The Bronx’s seaside gem offers a handful of sand courts along the boardwalk.
🏖️ Play while enjoying views of Pelham Bay.
👟 Bring your own ball and net to be safe.
🚗 Accessible via the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park, then a quick bus ride.
🧐 Comparison Table
Location | Borough | Lighting | Reservations | League Play | Notes |
QBK Sports | Queens | ✅ Indoor | Recommended | ✅ | Year-round indoor beach facility |
Pier 25 | Manhattan | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Central, scenic, busy |
Pier 6 | Brooklyn | ✅ | Sometimes | ✅ | Skyline views, popular leagues |
Riverside (105th) | Manhattan | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Casual pickup only |
Rockaway Beach | Queens | ❌ | ❌ | Sometimes | Real beach, true oceanfront |
Central Park | Manhattan | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Small but iconic |
Domino Park | Brooklyn | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | One court, lit |
Orchard Beach | Bronx | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Farther, but scenic |
💡 Tips for NYC Beach Volleyball Players
Check schedules early. Leagues and events often book up fast (especially Pier 25 and Pier 6).
Bring your own gear. Some courts don’t provide nets or balls.
Play off-peak. Early mornings or weekdays are best for drop-ins.
Respect rotations. Popular spots often share courts — take turns!
Use indoor courts in bad weather. (👋 Hi again from QBK.)
🏖️ Final Serve
From the Hudson River to the Rockaways, NYC offers a surprisingly rich beach volleyball scene. Whether you want league play, pickup games, or just a sunny day in the sand, there’s something for every type of player.
But when the weather doesn’t cooperate — or when you want to level up your game — QBK Sports has you covered, literally.
Ready to play year-round? 👉 See our leagues & drop-ins at qbksports.com