Sunshine, sand, sets and spikes. These are the choice ingredients for the beach volleyball tournament served up by the town of Seaside this summer.

Set for Aug. 12-14, the Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament will be the coastal town’s 30th annual event. It’s billed as the largest amateur volleyball tournament in the world, drawing more than 800 teams on 100-plus courts to showcase the strength and beauty of this physical competition.

For spectators, it’s a casual and fun atmosphere. Admission is free, and people stake out their space on amphitheater-style sand berms. Blankets and lawn chairs start appearing on Thursday as people stake out their spots. (Don’t be surprised to see the longstanding tradition of someone’s couch along the top row.) “It’s a fabulous way to experience a beach volleyball tournament without having to pay to get in,” said Al Smiles, executive director of the Seaside Chamber of Commerce.

And yes, there will suntanned muscles, men playing shirtless, female athletes in bikinis, and the celebratory spanking that goes along with the game. But it’s really about the athleticism. “The standard of play is very high,” said Smiles. With many current and former Association of Volleyball Professionals members competing, “you’ll see some of the best players in the country.” And who doesn’t love an awesome, diving layout in the sand?

Last year more than 10,000 spectators showed up each day to watch beachside play in several divisions: Men’s and Women’s Open, Co-Ed, Advanced, Advanced A Divisions, Quads and Six’s, and Parent – Child. This year adds Men’s/Women’s B & BB Doubles, Masters 55+ Doubles, Coach/Player and Parent/Child Advanced 2′s.

Smiles said organizers would be tracking the number of players to confirm the event’s status as the largest amateur beach volleyball tournament in the world for the Guinness World Records.

Check out photos and videos at the tourney website. And for high-tech help planning your trip, download Seaside’s new, free mobile smartphone app.