Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach

Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach is one of Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s most unique and glamorous events of the year. Some of the world’s top polo players hit the sands of Miami Beach for three days of high-speed action. Part social event, part best-in-class sports championship, the tournament allows visitors and locals to enjoy and learn about polo while basking in the destination’s glorious weather.

What is Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach?

Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach is the largest beach polo event in the world. Beach polo is played like regular polo, except the action happens on sand instead of turf or snow. Riders mount horses and use mallets to hit a small, hard ball through goals on either side of the field. But the matches are only part of the excitement. The long weekend is also filled with chic parties, exclusive events and lavish dinners where celebrities and players mix and mingle. The experience isn’t just for the rich and famous, though. Admission to Beach Polo World Cup is free if you want to watch from the sand, meaning anyone can enjoy the action.

When and Where is Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach?

Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach will take place November 14-17, 2024 on the sands of Miami Beach between 21st and 22nd streets, near Collins Park in South Beach.

Read on details on the 2023 Beach Polo World Cup

The round-robin tournament begins at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, with matches throughout the day. On Saturday, the round-robin portion of the tournaments continues, beginning at 12:45 p.m.. Sunday features the championship round, with the seventh- and eighth-place match at 12:15 p.m., the fifth- and sixth-place match at 1:30 p.m., the third- and fourth-place match at 2:45 p.m. and the championship at 4 p.m. An awards ceremony will follow, crowning the MVP and best-playing pony. The retail village will open at 11 a.m. Thursday-Sunday.

Other Events at Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach

The event kicks off on Thursday, the day before the first match, with a Pride Polo Game supporting LGBTQ+ causes at 3 p.m. Later, at 5:30 p.m., will be the official team presentation and game draw. From Friday through Sunday, each match day will conclude with an Après Polo party at the swanky Setai hotel, where spectators can keep the fun going at the resort’s glittering pool. The party starts at 7 p.m.

On Friday, hip underground hot spot Medium Cool will host a cocktail and dance party that’s open to the public. Guests can mix and mingle with several of the players. Those who want to immerse themselves in the experience can book a room at one of two official hotels: The Setai or W South Beach.

Who is Playing in Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach?

The tournament will feature eight teams of three players each, representing 10 countries and riding over 120 different horses.

Tickets for Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach

One of the best things about Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach is that anyone can watch it for free. Viewing areas are set up on the sand outside the arena, so spectators can walk up at their leisure and take in the matches without needing a ticket.

Polo Lounge passes are available starting at $75 plus taxes and fees for guests who want to watch from the shade. The ultimate polo experience will be inside the lavish VIP tents, where sharply dressed fans can mingle over the sand with an open bar and endless food. Tickets in the VIP area begin at $450 each for Friday’s matches, with reserved tables available for parties of 10.

What is the attire for beach polo?

Standard beach attire is acceptable if you plan to watch from the beach. In the lounges and VIP areas, fans will be donning their beach chic finest, ranging from stylish sundresses and creative hats to elegant polo shirts and linen slacks. Dress for a summertime cocktail party and you’ll be on the right track.

How do I get to Beach Polo World Cup, Miami Beach?

Collins Park is easily reached by car or rideshare. The park is about halfway between the MacArthur (I-395) and Julia Tuttle (I-195) causeways, so the route you choose will depend on which direction you’re coming from. Once in Miami Beach, you can park at the city garage on 22nd Street, which charges $2 per hour. If you’re already in Miami Beach, the Collins Express trolley runs along the length of Collins Avenue from Lincoln Road north to 88th Street.

By: Matthew Meltzer | April 1, 2024