Ashland

Hermosa Beach has been home to the AVP since 1984 and is one the biggest and most anticipated events of the year.  For three days, the area in and around Pier Ave. (Map & Directions), is alive with action and bars are packed to capacity. By the time the sand settles, more than 50,000 people visit, spending the days enjoying the beach, the sunshine, and a seaside sport at its best.  In other words, it’s pure Southern California.

The play starts Thursday and runs through the men’s final on Sunday. Tip: For the semis and especially the men’s and women’s semifinals on the main stadium court, get a seat an hour before the matches start. The play starts Thursday and runs through the men’s final on Sunday.

In 2008, the AVP charged $20 for entrance to courts 1, 2 and stadium court, and $40 for a reserved ticket. That was for each day, including Friday. Yes, tickets for seats on the sand in California! Outer courts were still free, but obviously most major matches were placed on the paid courts. This is a major change from the days when all the action was free, which seemed to best fit this beach volleyball community. As a result, many people passed up the sand scene and instead filled up the bars along the Pier. Nearly all had lines by 2 p.m.  Tickets

The best viewing for volleyball is Friday when even the top pros are playing on outer courts and getting right up to the action is as easy as throwing down a beach towel. Bring snacks and lunch (drinks in plastic cups!) and make a day of it.

Saturday, the matches move to the main grandstand court in the afternoon. Finding a seat can be difficult late in the day. Sunday, the women’’s final, followed by the men’s final, are always packed so savvy fans get a seat early. Southern Californians really do enjoy their beach volleyball.  If you can’t make it to SoCal for the weekend or want to follow the rest of the tour chec out the NBC Sports AVP TV Schedule.