By its very nature, beach tennis is a sport of escape. What could be better than combining your passion for the racket with sun, fine sand, and the sound of waves? For travel and sports enthusiasts, the world is full of idyllic destinations where beach tennis is not only played but often celebrated. From legendary beaches to hidden gems, here is a selection of the best places on the planet to hit the ball with your feet in the sand.

Italy: The European Cradle of Beach Tennis

While beach tennis was born in Italy in the 1970s, the country remains the Mecca of the sport in Europe today. Its coasts are home to clubs and beaches entirely dedicated to the discipline.

• Ravenna (Marina di Ravenna): Considered the historical heart of Italian beach tennis, this city hosts numerous international tournaments and has first-rate facilities. The atmosphere is always festive, and the level of play is very high.

• The Beaches of Romagna (Cervia, Riccione): The entire Adriatic coast is dotted with beach tennis clubs. It's the ideal place to start, find partners, and participate in amateur tournaments in a very friendly atmosphere.

Brazil: The South American Passion

Brazil has embraced beach tennis with an unparalleled fervor, making it one of the most dynamic countries for this sport. The climate and the Brazilians' love for beach sports have created a real craze.

• Rio de Janeiro (Copacabana, Ipanema): It's impossible to talk about beach sports without mentioning Rio. The famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are home to dozens of beach tennis courts, where pro players and amateurs mix. The energy is contagious, and the sessions often last until sunset.

• Florianópolis (Jurerê): This island in southern Brazil is another hotspot for beach tennis. Its magnificent beaches and sophisticated atmosphere make it a sought-after destination to combine sport and relaxation.

USA: Rapid Growth in North America

Beach tennis is experiencing exponential growth in the United States, particularly in sunny regions.

• California (Santa Monica, Huntington Beach): California's culture of surfing and beach sports has naturally adopted beach tennis. The beaches of Santa Monica and Huntington Beach are popular meeting places for players, with local tournaments and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Florida (Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale): Florida's tropical climate is perfect for beach tennis all year round. The beaches of Miami and Fort Lauderdale are equipped with permanent courts and regularly host competitions.

Other Global Gems

Beyond these epicenters, other destinations offer memorable beach tennis experiences.

• Caribbean (Aruba, Barbados): With their turquoise waters and white sand, the Caribbean islands are idyllic settings. Aruba, in particular, organizes major international tournaments that attract the world's elite.

• Dubai (Jumeirah Beach): The Emirati city, always at the forefront of sports innovation, has developed luxurious beach tennis facilities on its beaches. It's an increasingly popular spot for tournaments and discerning amateurs.