It’s here, the Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championship 2023! Most of us will hit the beach this November to take in one of our biggest annual events.  While beach tennis tops the list of favourite sports for many of us, some may not quite understand the sport.

If that’s you, then have no fear. We want to help you enjoy the occasion along with everyone else. So, we’ve put together a quick guide on this increasingly popular game. We’re sure it will also be a helpful tool for visitors to the island who may not be too familiar with beach tennis.

Moreover, chances are, with all the excitement surrounding the championship games, you may feel inspired to play.  Review our quick and easy guide to beach tennis, gather your crew and head to the beach. Now, let’s jump right in.  

Although this game can be played in pairs, we encourage you to round up a few friends and pair up. It’s so much more fun when played as a game of doubles. The serving team may use either underarm or overarm, and any of the two players from the opposing team may respond. Your team wins a point if the ball touches the ground across the net. Additionally, points are gained when the opposing team hits the ball out of bounds or into the net on return.

What is beach tennis?

It is a fun-filled, high-energy, athletic beach sport that allows you to enjoy fun in the sun and a serious workout. Some call it a combination of tennis and volleyball. Aspects of traditional tennis are seen in players’ use of a tennis ball and racquet. It’s also played with a paddle, as we do here in Aruba. Whether racquet or paddle, these are merged with volleyball’s relaxed environment, court size and attire.   

What do you need?

A few things are needed. First, an area as large as a beach volleyball court. Next, you’ll need a net. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) advises a net of 1.8m high and 1.7m for male and female players. We mentioned the paddles previously. Choose stringless paddles that do not exceed 21.65 inches in length and 11.81 inches in width. Now for the ball, your Stage 2 tennis balls, half orange and half yellow, are used. 

How is it played?

Although this game can be played in pairs, we encourage you to round up a few friends and pair up. It’s so much more fun when played as a game of doubles. The serving team may use either underarm or overarm, and any of the two players from the opposing team may respond. Your team wins a point if the ball touches the ground across the net. Additionally, points are gained when the opposing team hits the ball out of bounds or into the net on return.

How do you keep score?

The scoring system is another element that is like tennis. In addition to an omission of service, let or second serve. Scoring involves the best of five, three and one sets. Winning requires having a lead score for two of seven or nine games. A tie-break is done if you’ve scored six or eight games.

We’ve now equipped you with the basics you need to attempt one of our favourite sports. Grab a friend or two and give it a try. 

Sources: International Tennis Federation, Sportsver, Visit Aruba and Beach Tennis Aruba.