If you're not accustomed to playing volleyball in sand, you're in for a real workout, and if you survive, your improved agility and jumping may serve you better on a hard court. As you might expect, competition is fairly stiff, and local players generally take their games seriously. Sand volleyball courts are common in area parks and beaches, and anyone can use them, so enjoy!

Capt'n Bill's Backyard Grill
4240 Market St., Wilmington
(910) 762-0111

The only sand courts within the Wilmington city limits can be found at this popular volleyball-restaurant complex behind the North 17 Shopping Center. Year round, you can join a pickup game on one of eight courts or register your team in one of Capt'n Bill's leagues, which are for all skill levels. Operated by the husband and wife team of John and Erin Musser, Capt'n Bill's has a friendly staff, hot food, cold drinks, three bars, outside and inside seating and 15 TV sets.
 

The region's largest, most complete fitness facility, Wilmington Athletic Club (WAC), offers great volleyball on its "Court of Champions." Call about pick-up games or seasonal league play.