NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships to Return to Gulf Shores in 2027

R. Ken Cooper • December 14, 2024

Economic boost expected from the NCAA volleyball tournament

Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf Shores will reclaim its title as the premier destination for collegiate beach volleyball as the NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships are set to return to Gulf Shores Public Beach from 2027 through 2031.

The NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship will be held at Huntington Beach Pier in Huntington Beach, California, on May 2-4, 2025, and May 1-3, 2026. This marks the first time the championship will take place in California, as it has been held in Gulf Shores since its inception in 2016.

The Gulf Shores Public Beach has been a longtime host of the championship, known for its white sands and warm Gulf breezes that create an ideal backdrop for the tournament. The championships not only showcase the pinnacle of collegiate beach volleyball but also bring economic and cultural benefits to the Gulf Shores area.

The Gulf Shores community has embraced the tournament since its inception in 2016, and its commitment to hospitality has helped elevate the event to new heights. Thousands of fans, athletes, and media members flock to the area annually to witness the competition and enjoy the Gulf Coast atmosphere.

By securing hosting rights through 2031, Gulf Shores ensures it will remain at the forefront of collegiate beach volleyball. The event is expected to draw participants and spectators from across the country, spotlighting the city as a leading sports tourism destination.

The championships bring an influx of visitors to Gulf Shores, benefiting local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. Past tournaments have demonstrated the economic advantages of hosting such an event, generating revenue for the region and providing opportunities for local vendors to engage with attendees.

City officials have expressed their enthusiasm for the event’s return, citing its positive impact on the community and the opportunity to showcase Gulf Shores on a national stage.

The Gulf Shores Public Beach is set to remain the stage for beach volleyball, with its combination of world-class facilities, vibrant community support, and beachside coastal setting.

NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships to Return to Gulf Shores in 2027

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Share this article w/ Friends...

Frank Brown Songwriters Festival Earns Second Place in National Awards

By OBA Staff • June 13, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival has been named the second-best outdoor music festival in the nation by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor places the festival among the top music events in the United States. The festival, held along the Alabama-Florida coast, is known for its unique venues and focus on talented singer-songwriters. It draws music fans from across the country each year.

The Foley Cobblestone Hotel was dedicated on Tuesday, June 10.

New Hotel Brings Jobs and Visitors to Foley

By Guy Busby • June 13, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is seeing more visitors thanks to new hotel developments. These hotels are also creating more local jobs and boosting income for both the city and its residents. More hotel space means more opportunities for businesses and tourism. It's a win for the entire community.

Gulf Shores Council Reduces Tree Ordinance Fine After Homeowner Appeal

By OBA Staff • June 12, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — In a lengthy and sometimes emotional discussion, the Gulf Shores City Council voted Monday to reduce a $1,500 fine levied against a homeowner for removing trees without a permit—while signaling possible changes ahead for the city’s tree protection ordinance.

Foley Invites Community to Celebrate Third Thursday Anniversary

By OBA Staff • June 12, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Downtown Foley is celebrating a big milestone this month. The Third Thursday event series turns one year old on June 19. To mark the occasion, organizers are planning a special celebration. Residents and visitors are invited to shop, dine, and enjoy the downtown vibe.

Coastal Alabama Food Truck and Beer Festival Set to Return to Gulf Shores

By OBA Staff • June 11, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores will once again welcome a popular event focused on food and fun. The Annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival is returning for its fourth year. It will be held on November 8 and 9 at Gulf Place. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and includes live music, lawn games, and activities for all ages.

Gulf Shores Approves Parking Study to Tackle Growth in Waterway Village

By OBA Staff • June 11, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Shores City Council on Monday approved a $72,625 not-to-exceed contract with Kimley Horn to launch a comprehensive parking study focused on the Waterway Village District. The move marks a key step toward revitalizing the area and addressing a growing need for smarter parking solutions.

New Halo Lights to Brighten Foley Streets

By Guy Busby • June 11, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is adding more lights to the oak trees along city streets as part of a project to brighten the downtown area. The new lights will help make the area more welcoming and easier to walk through at night. They are part of a larger plan to improve lighting around town. The project focuses on adding lights to both the trees and nearby walkways.

Orange Beach Man Drowns in Wolf Bay on Sunday Afternoon

By OBA Staff • June 10, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — An Orange Beach man drowned in south Alabama Sunday afternoon, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Dewayne Stephens, 55, of Orange Beach, was identified as the man who lost his life.

City of Foley Firefighters Praised for High Performance

By Guy Busby • June 10, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Fire protection in Foley has gotten better over the past few years, even though firefighters are answering more calls than before. A national study showed that the city's fire service has improved. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the higher score proves Foley’s firefighters are doing a great job under growing pressure. He credited Chief Joey Darby and the entire department for their work in keeping the community safe.

Full Moon Paddle Returns to Orange Beach Friday

By OBA Staff • June 10, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The City of Orange Beach Wind & Water Learning Center is kicking off its summer Full Moon Paddle series with a night of fun on the water. The event is open to the public and features a mix of paddling, live music, and food. Guests will enjoy a unique experience under the moonlight while supporting a good cause. All proceeds benefit the Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center.