Emerging over a century ago on the sandy shores of Santa Monica, volleyball swiftly transcended its origins in Southern California to become a global sensation, embodying the essence of leisure under the sun. Recognized as an Olympic sport in 1996, beach volleyball captivates enthusiasts worldwide with its electrifying fusion of strength, elegance, and athleticism.
In 1920, Santa Monica sculpted its coastline with jetties, fashioning a sandy expanse that swiftly gained international acclaim among sun worshippers. As permanent nets graced the shoreline, volleyball, still in its infancy, captured the hearts of beachgoers and exclusive clubs alike. The inaugural inter-club competitions graced Santa Monica’s shores in 1924.
Fast forward to the summer of 1930, where Paul “Pablo” Johnson pioneered the sport’s dynamic two-person teams, a departure from traditional six-player indoor volleyball, in response to a couple of absent players from the Santa Monica Athletic Club. From its humble beginnings, the sport gradually ascended in popularity along the American coastline, eventually making waves across European beaches.
Its inclusion as a competitive Olympic discipline in 1996 propelled beach volleyball into the limelight, immortalizing athletes like Kerri Walsh Jennings, Misty May-Treanor, and Karch Kiraly, the only player to clinch Olympic medals in both indoor and beach volleyball. Remarkably, Misty May-Treanor, a native of Santa Monica, has attributed much of her success to her seaside upbringing, fondly reminiscing, “All my life, I’ve dreamed in gold.”
Returning to Los Angeles for its third rendition, the Olympic Games are slated to commence on July 14, 2028, and conclude on July 30. Having previously hosted in 1984 and 1932, L.A. prepares to welcome athletes from around the globe. The LA28 Games will showcase over 800 events across more than 40 sports, with an estimated 15,000 athletes competing. Notably, the lineup will introduce five new sports, including cricket, flag football, lacrosse, squash, and baseball-softball.
Santa Monica, true to its coastal allure, will host beach volleyball matches near the iconic Santa Monica Pier, while nearby Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades will accommodate golf. Detailed schedules, athlete profiles, and ticketing information will be disclosed in due course.
Preliminary arrangements for beach volleyball entail a temporary 12,000-seat stadium, alongside practice courts and ancillary facilities, situated north of the Santa Monica Pier. Rigorous security, accessibility, and construction protocols are underway, ensuring a seamless execution as the Games draw near.
In collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and regional stakeholders, LA28 orchestrates transportation logistics to facilitate smooth transit for athletes, spectators, and residents alike. A comprehensive mass transit expansion initiative is underway, bolstering connectivity across Los Angeles in anticipation of the 2028 extravaganza.
Southern California’s sporting prowess is legendary, boasting 11 professional teams, esteemed collegiate programs, and a fervent fan base. The return of the Olympic Games promises to inscribe yet another illustrious chapter in the region’s storied athletic legacy, against the backdrop of its sun-kissed beaches.
Whether envisioning Olympic glory on the sand, in the stadium, or through the screen, Santa Monica offers a myriad of recreational pursuits for all. With an array of accommodations spanning various budgets and accessible transportation options, the city stands poised as an ideal base for Olympic enthusiasts, as matches unfold across the vast expanse of metro Los Angeles.
From surfing by the iconic Santa Monica Pier to leisurely bike rides along scenic routes, the city beckons with an abundance of wellness activities and outdoor adventures. With lush green spaces, fitness classes, vibrant farmers markets, and pet-friendly trails, Santa Monica fosters a culture of well-being unmatched elsewhere.
As the countdown to 2028 begins, Santa Monica invites visitors to immerse themselves in the thrill of Olympic competition and the laid-back coastal charm that defines this quintessential California destination.
