The association organises the ANOC World Beach Games, a multi-sport event held every two years.

The ANOC was established in June 1979 during the Constitutive General Assembly in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The organization's purpose is for the IOC to manage the general affairs for the National Olympic Committees, to give them their support, advice, cooperation, and recommendations for their development.

Its members are affiliated to one of five continental associations: The organization was founded in 1979 under the presidency of Mario Vázquez Raña of Mexico.

The Assembly elects the President and the Senior Vice-President every four years, as well as the members of the Executive Council.