How To Play Backyard Bocce Ball

Bocce Ball isn’t just a game. It’s strategy, cheeky tactics, and classic backyard banter. Play on grass, sand, or gravel anywhere flat and fun. One good roll can change the game and one bold toss can spark laughs that last all afternoon. Perfect for family, friends, and Kiwi summer adventures.

Get your own premium Wooden Backyard Bocce Ball Set and start playing today.

What You’ll Need

  • 1 Pallino (small white target ball)

  • 8 Bocce balls (4 colours, 2 of each: one big stripe, one small stripe)

  • Measuring string for super-close calls

  • A flat-ish playing area such as grass, sand, or lawn

Getting Started

Play solo, in pairs, or in teams of up to 4. Your set is designed for flexibility. Play by colour or stripe size so everyone can easily identify their balls.

Two-team setup

  • Use all 8 Bocce balls (4 per team)

  • Play by stripe size or colour

The Aim of the Game

Get your Bocce balls as close as possible to the Pallino. Be tactical and don’t be afraid to knock your opponent’s balls out of the way to claim top spot.

How to Play

  1. Throw the Pallino to start the round.

  2. The team or player who threw the Pallino throws their Bocce balls first.

  3. Teams or players take turns throwing.

    • If a ball lands closest to the Pallino on the first throw, the turn ends.

    • Otherwise, use remaining balls to get closest.

  4. Rotate until all 8 balls have been thrown.

Scoring

  • Only one team or player scores per round.

  • Earn 1 point for each ball closer to the Pallino than the other team’s closest ball.

  • A ball touching the Pallino, called a “baci” or “kiss,” is worth 2 points.

  • Maximum points per frame is 4.

  • First to 12 points wins, or play to whatever score feels right.

Top Tips

  • Knock other balls or the Pallino to your advantage

  • Mix gentle rolls and bold tosses depending on the surface

  • Play singles, doubles, or full teams. Flexibility is key

Winning

The first team to reach the agreed score is crowned Backyard Bocce Legends.

SHARE THE FUN

Tag us in your best shots, wild throws, or funny fails. 
We love seeing your Backyard Games moments. 
@backyardgamesnz