Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about playing bocce at Marin Bocce Federation
What is bocce ball?
Bocce is an Italian ball game that dates back to ancient Rome. It’s a simple game where players take turns throwing bocce balls toward a smaller target ball called the pallino. The objective is to get your balls closer to the pallino than your opponent’s balls. It’s easy to learn and fun for all ages and skill levels.
Do I need experience to play?
No experience is necessary! Bocce is one of the easiest sports to learn. We welcome beginners and our friendly staff is here to help teach you the game. Our leagues have Upper and Lower divisions for all skill levels. Check out our Bocce Rules to get familiar before your first visit.
Can I play without joining a league?
Yes! We offer Open Play sessions where anyone can come and play bocce. Non-league players pay $20/person, league players pay $15/person, and children under 14 are $10/person. You can play up to 3 hours. Cash only, or $25 minimum credit card. Visit our Play Bocce page for current hours and details.
How do I join a league?
Call our office at (415) 485-5583 and we’ll help place you on a team. We have daytime leagues (Mon, Wed, Thur) and evening leagues (Mon–Fri). Teams have 4–10 players per team. Three 9-week sessions per year: Spring, Summer, and Fall. Visit our Leagues & Open Play page for full details.
What are the league costs?
Daytime league teams cost $500 per nine-week session. Evening league teams cost $610 per nine-week session. This covers all court fees and equipment use. See complete details on our Leagues & Open Play page.
Can I reserve the courts for a private event?
Yes! We host special events, fundraisers, team building, corporate events, and family gatherings. Rates start at $50/hr per court for non-profits, $75/hr for private parties, and $100/hr for corporate events (up to 10 people per court). Visit our Court Reservations page for full details and online booking.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and flat-soled shoes (no heels). We provide all the bocce balls and equipment. Feel free to bring snacks and drinks for yourself and your team.
Where is Marin Bocce Federation located?
We are located at 550 B Street in San Rafael, CA 94901, adjacent to Albert Park in downtown San Rafael. We have 10 professional bocce courts — 8 outdoor and 2 indoor — with lights for evening play. Street parking is available around Albert Park, and the nearby park lot may also have spaces available.
What happens if it rains?
The facility closes when it’s raining or when weather conditions make play unsafe. Check our Weather Hotline at (415) 419-3553 for the latest updates on weather-related closures before heading out.
What about tournaments?
We host both in-house MBF tournaments ($40/person, league players only) and United States Bocce Federation (USBF) tournaments ($60/person, open to the public). All skill levels are welcome. Visit our Tournaments page for the current schedule and registration links.
Can I bring alcohol?
Per our agreement with the City of San Rafael and our liquor license, only beer and wine are permitted at the facility. No hard liquor is allowed.
Is Marin Bocce Federation a nonprofit?
Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to enhance and enrich lives by creating an inclusive community of bocce enthusiasts. We are privately funded and rely on bocce league fees, event revenue, and donations. Donations are tax-deductible.
How can I volunteer?
We love our volunteers! There are opportunities for event support, league assistance, facility maintenance, and community outreach. Visit our Volunteer page or contact our office at (415) 485-5583 to learn about current opportunities.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us and we’ll be happy to help!