Wilmington, North Carolina is a beautiful beach town. People move here from all over the country to enjoy the sun, sand, and outdoor lifestyle. Part of that outdoor lifestyle is the thriving beach volleyball community. UNCW has even added sand volleyball as it’s newest sport. Beach volleyball is a huge sport in Wilmington, and one of the best places to play is at Dig & Dive sports bar. Dig & Dive is located at 3525 lancelot lane and has been a favorite hangout since 2012. In the summer time, the bar is packed with league players enjoying a few beers after a match or hanging by the outdoor tiki bar. Other outdoor games are also enjoyed such as corn hole and dodgeball.
But what about the winter time? How does Dig & Dive survive as a volleyball bar in the winter? The answer is simple, it’s called the frostbite league. Wilmington winters can be surprisingly cold. It’s not unheard of to see a few inches of snow and ice each year. The league runs from January until the spring. Dig & Dive offers sand socks and hoodies to help keep players warm. They also place heaters around the patio for players to warm up.
In the winter with less patrons, Dig & Dive has to diversify it’s offerings and find other revenue streams. Candace Gonzales is the general manager at Dig & Dive. She believes offering volleyball year round can help sustain the business in the slow months. Special tournaments and free play are also extended through the winter. Dig & Dive is also a destination for live sporting events and holiday parties.
Another new feature for the winter is the addition of the Dig & Dive shuttle bus. With the purchase of food or a beverage, customers can get a free ride downtown or to the beach bars. This service not only keeps the roads safe, but helps attract more customers. The shuttle will even pick you up at the end of the night and bring you back to Dig & Dive.
Beach volleyball is obviously a summer sport, but if you have the courage to brave the cold, it can be enjoyed year-round. Even though the winter is here, that doesn’t mean the fun has to end. League play continues at Dig & Dive and the great food and friendly staff keep you smiling. No need for sunscreen, just throw on some sand socks and try the frostbite league.