Beach Tennis vs Pop Tennis: What’s the Difference?

At All Racquet Sports, we closely follow how racket and paddle sports continue to evolve. Two games that are often compared are Beach Tennis and Pop Tennis. While both are fast, social, and accessible, they differ in how and where they are played. Understanding these differences can help players choose the option that best fits their playing style, environment, and expectations.

What Is Beach Tennis?

Beach Tennis is played on sand, typically on a beach or on dedicated sand courts. The sport blends elements of tennis, volleyball, and paddle sports, with rallies played entirely in the air.

Key characteristics of Beach Tennis:

• Played on sand

• No bounce allowed (volleys only)

• Net height similar to volleyball

• Usually played in doubles

• Uses a solid paddle (no strings) and a low-compression ball

Because the ball never touches the ground, Beach Tennis emphasizes quick reactions, positioning, and aggressive net play. This style of play is closely linked to the use of beach tennis rackets, which are designed for control, fast handling, and effective aerial shots on sand.

What Is Pop Tennis?

Pop Tennis (formerly known as Paddle Tennis in the United States) is played on a hard court, smaller than a traditional tennis court. Unlike Beach Tennis, the ball is allowed to bounce once before being returned.

Key characteristics of Pop Tennis:

• Played on a hard court

• One bounce allowed

• Lower net than traditional tennis

• Played in singles or doubles

• Uses a solid paddle and a depressurized tennis ball

Pop Tennis offers a more controlled, ground-based style of play, with longer rallies and a greater focus on placement, consistency, and tactical decision-making.

What Beach Tennis and Pop Tennis Have in Common

Despite their differences, the two sports share several similarities:

• Both use solid paddles instead of strung rackets

• Both are easy to learn and accessible for new players

• Both rely on touch, control, and fast reactions

• Both are popular in social and competitive environments

These shared elements make it easy for players to transition between the two sports.

Key Differences at a Glance

Playing Surface

• Beach Tennis: Sand

• Pop Tennis: Hard court

Bounce Rule

• Beach Tennis: No bounce

• Pop Tennis: One bounce allowed

Style of Play

• Beach Tennis: Fast, aerial, and explosive

• Pop Tennis: Tactical, controlled, and rally-focused

Physical Demand

• Beach Tennis: Higher impact due to movement on sand

• Pop Tennis: Lower impact with more efficient footwork

Environment

• Beach Tennis: Outdoor, beach-based settings

• Pop Tennis: Clubs, parks, and community courts

Which One Should You Try?

• Choose Beach Tennis if you enjoy fast-paced action, net play, and the physical challenge of playing on sand.

• Choose Pop Tennis if you prefer longer rallies, court positioning, and a tennis-like feel with simpler equipment.

Many players enjoy both, as each develops different skills while keeping the experience social and engaging.

Two Sports, Two Ways to Play

Beach Tennis and Pop Tennis highlight how racket sports continue to evolve toward more accessible and community-driven formats. Whether played on sand or hard court, both offer a modern and enjoyable way to stay active and competitive.

At All Racquet Sports, we follow the growth of these sports and help players discover new ways to play with the right equipment and insight.