As is the case with beach volleyball and beach football, this discipline evolved from the original game. In beach handball, too, the traditional sport's variation, consistent with lifestyle and beach culture, fits in perfectly with the environment.

Played on sand by teams of four, with four substitute players per team, the action on the small court (27 by 12 meters) is fast, at times even furious.

Extra points are awarded for particularly spectacular goals: for those scored in-flight, through a penalty or by a goalkeeper.

Games go over two halves of 10 minutes each. There is always a winner in beach handball: a 'golden goal' rule applies in a draw for the half; should each team win a half, the game is decided by a 'shoot-out': a field player going up against the goalkeeper.

 Beach handball at The World Games 2005

Beach handball is on the Invitational Sports Program of The World Games 2009 Kaohsiung.