Dry Beach

Mardi Gras, Halloween, and an AVP event are rolled into one at next weekend's Charlie Saikley 6-Man Volleyball Tournament on the south side of the Manhattan Beach Pier.

In response to last year’s massive turnout (over 60,000), alcohol, props, and sound systems have been completely banned. No unsealed containers are allowed in, so those pre-mixed drinks in Gatorade bottles tolerated in the past will get you thrown out and slapped with a hefty fine. But there are ways around that.

Where to drink
A solid pre-game is strongly recommended. Arrive early at bars within walking distance of the pier. Ercoles Bar offers cheap pitchers. Shellback Tavern serves up potent Navy Grogs, a mix of three different rums that's a favorite cocktail among locals. Despite the harsh regulations, the fiesta continues all night at local spots with afterparties at Memphis and OB's.
Ercoles Bar, 1101 Manhattan Ave. (310-372-1997)
Shellback Tavern, 116 Manhattan Beach Blvd. (310-376-7857)
Memphis, 1142 N. Manhattan Ave. (310-545-5405)
OB's, 3610 N. Highland Ave. (310-546-1542)

Saturday is the core party day; by Sunday only the teams serious about winning are still on the courts.

Who to watch
If you want to see some quality beach volleyball, look for reigning champs Team Smack, Team Body Glove, and the Lakers/Afro-themed Team Fletch. Older men’s teams (Legends +1 and Maui & Sons) are a bit removed from the mayhem and are serious about their game. If you’re looking to get a bit more rowdy, try to find the scantily clad Team Bikini (their mantra: “drink more beer because you like our rear") or the Pit Crew, who don’t let trivialities like volleyball get in the way of their good time.