Spike into the cinematic sands with the best Beach Volleyball flicks, where sets and spikes collide with storylines.
From sun-soaked courts to heart-pounding matches, dive into the drama that stretches well beyond the net.
Keen to dig into a unique blend of sports and cinema? Check out these top beach volleyball tales of victory, teamwork, and sandy showdowns.
Best Beach Volleyball Movies, Shows, and Documentaries:
- Side Out (1990)
- Impact Point (2008)
- Cloud 9 (2014)
- Beach Kings (2008)
- Air Bud: Spikes Back (2003)
Table of Contents
#1 Side Out (1990)
- 🎬 Directed by: Peter Israelson
- 🌟 Starring: C. Thomas Howell, Peter Horton, Courtney Thorne-Smith
In “Side Out,” a young man from the Midwest moves to Los Angeles to live with his wealthy uncle and ends up discovering the sport of beach volleyball. The movie is a typical sports underdog story set against the backdrop of the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California during the popularity rise of beach volleyball.
As the protagonist learns more about the sport, he teams up with a seasoned player to take on the beach volleyball circuit, facing various challenges and ultimately aiming for victory at the championships.
Where to watch: Vudu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
#2 Impact Point (2008)
- 🎬 Directed by: Hayley Cloake
- 🌟 Starring: Brian Austin Green, Melissa Keller, Linden Ashby
“Impact Point” follows the story of a pro beach volleyball player and a sports reporter who become involved in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a stalker. The film is a thriller that combines the sport’s competitive action with a suspenseful narrative.
As the reporter gets closer to uncovering the stalker’s identity, her relationship with the volleyball player grows, adding a romantic dimension to the tension-filled plot. The movie showcases beach volleyball as a dramatic backdrop for the unfolding psychological thriller.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
#3 Cloud 9 (2014)
- 🎬 Directed by: Paul Hoen
- 🌟 Starring: Dove Cameron, Luke Benward, Kiersey Clemons
While “Cloud 9” is primarily a snowboarding movie, it offers a contrast between snow sports and summer beach activities, such as volleyball, as part of its character development. The Disney Channel original movie revolves around a competitive snowboarder who is forced to step back and reassess her life after a professional setback.
The film emphasizes themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the importance of following one’s passions, even when facing obstacles. While not centered on beach volleyball, the movie showcases the juxtaposition of different athletic pursuits and the universal appeal of youth sports films.
Where to watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play
#4 Beach Kings (2008)
- 🎬 Directed by: Jason L. Miller
- 🌟 Starring: David Charvet, Torrey DeVitto, Kristin Cavallari
“Beach Kings,” also known under the title “Green Flash,” is about a former basketball star who tries to find a new purpose by turning to beach volleyball. As he delves into the world of professional beach volleyball, he discovers new friendships and faces the challenge of proving himself in a different sport.
The movie is set in the competitive scene of California’s beaches, where the protagonist not only learns the intricacies of beach volleyball but also lessons about life and what it means to be a team player.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
#5 Air Bud: Spikes Back (2003)
- 🎬 Directed by: Mike Southon
“Air Bud: Spikes Back” is the fifth installment in the Air Bud series, where the lovable canine known for his athletic abilities tries his paw at beach volleyball. In this family-friendly film, Buddy teams up with a young girl as they play together to save her friendship and compete in a volleyball championship.
The movie combines the fun of a sports competition with the heartwarming bond between a dog and his human companions, offering an enjoyable story for children and families, especially those who are fans of the Air Bud franchise.
Where to watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play
These visual stories often highlight why beach volleyball is considered by many to be the hardest sport, a topic we delve into with evidence and player insights in our article on why beach volleyball is the hardest sport.
FAQ
What is the best Beach Volleyball movie of all time?
“Side Out” (1990) is the best Beach Volleyball movie of all time, featuring the excitement and culture of the sport during its peak popularity era.
What are some good Beach Volleyball movies?
“Top Gun” (1986) for its iconic beach volleyball scene, and “Side Out” (1990) are good Beach Volleyball movies that capture the spirit of the game and its community.
What Beach Volleyball movies, shows, and documentaries are on Netflix
The best Beach Volleyball movies, shows, and documentaries on Netflix currently are limited, as the platform’s offerings change regularly. Please check Netflix’s current catalog for the latest selections.
