Guide to Different Court Types

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., and one of the best parts about it is the variety of places where you can play. Whether you’re looking for a public park, a private club, or even a temporary converted tennis court, there’s likely a pickleball court nearby just waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of places to play, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and useful apps and resources to help you find your perfect court.

1. Public Courts

Overview

Public courts are often the most accessible option for players at all skill levels. These courts are typically found in community parks, recreational centers, and sports complexes. They usually offer free or low-cost access to players.

Pros

• Cost-Effective: Most public courts are free or have a very minimal fee.

• Accessibility: They’re often located in community areas, making them easy to find.

• Community Engagement: Playing on public courts allows you to meet and interact with other local players, fostering a sense of community.

Cons

• Availability: Public courts can get crowded, especially during peak hours. You might have to wait for a court to become available.

• Maintenance: The quality of public courts can vary. Some may not be maintained regularly, affecting playability.

• Noise and Distractions: Being in a public space means more potential distractions, rules can be lax and sportsmanship can be lacking with players.

How to Find Public Courts

You can easily find public pickleball courts using online resources. Here are a few tools to help you locate them:

• USA Pickleball’s Places 2 Play: This online directory lets you search for public courts based on your location. Visit Places 2 Play to find courts near you.

• Google Maps: Simply search for “pickleball courts near me” to find nearby public facilities.

Example

For instance, if you live in San Diego, a search might reveal locations like Balboa Park or Mission Bay, both of which have dedicated pickleball courts.

2. Private Courts

Overview

Private courts are usually located within private clubs or community associations. Access to these courts often requires a membership or invitation from a member.

Pros

• Exclusive Access: With fewer players, you can usually find a court available when you want to play.  Most are available to be reserved for private or group play.

• Well-Maintained: Private courts are typically well-kept, providing a better playing surface and amenities.

• Community: Joining a private club can connect you with other players, creating opportunities for organized games and tournaments.

• Benefits: Most clubs have a fully functioning food area, equipment available, and tables and lockers.

Cons

• Cost: Membership fees can be high, making private courts less accessible for some players.

• Limited Availability: Depending on the club’s policies, you might be restricted to certain hours for playing.

• Restrictions: You may be restricted to specific types of play at certain hours or private events.  These run on a business profit model so expect to pay extra for benefits.

How to Find Private Courts

To locate private courts in your area, consider:

• Local Clubs: Check with local tennis or racquet clubs, as many have pickleball facilities.

• Community Centers: Some neighborhoods have community centers with pickleball courts available for members.

Example

In Miami, clubs like the Miami Beach Tennis Center offer pickleball as part of their membership benefits.

3. Temporary Converted Tennis Courts

Overview

Many tennis facilities are beginning to convert some of their courts for pickleball use. This can be a great option, especially in areas where dedicated pickleball courts are limited.

Pros

• Space Efficiency: Converting existing tennis courts allows for more playing options without the need for additional land. 4 pickleball courts can fit within 1 tennis court.

• Equipment: All that is needed is a different size net and new lines to be drawn.

• Options:  Tennis players who no longer want to play tennis will easily migrate over to playing pickleball.  

Cons

• Limited Availability: Depending on the facility’s schedule, pickleball might only be available during certain times.

• Court Conditions: Tennis courts may not be optimized for pickleball, potentially affecting play. Having tennis lines on a pickleball court can be distracting.

• Adjusting to Different Surfaces: The surface of a tennis court may feel different from a dedicated pickleball court.

• Tennis Attitude: Tennis players can have a negative attitude feeling their tennis facility is being taken over by pickleball.  Best to ignore and be respectful of the facility.

How to Find Temporary Courts

You can find converted tennis courts through:

• Local Tennis Clubs: Ask about their pickleball offerings.

• USA Pickleball’s Places 2 Play: This resource often lists facilities that have converted tennis courts for pickleball.

Example

In cities like Portland, many tennis clubs, such as the Portland Tennis Center, offer designated pickleball times.

4. Indoor vs. Outdoor Courts

Indoor Courts

Overview

Indoor pickleball courts are typically found in gyms, sports complexes, or community centers. They offer a controlled environment, shielded from weather conditions.

Pros

• Weather-Proof: You can play year-round without worrying about rain, wind, or extreme temperatures.

• Controlled Environment: Indoor facilities often have regulated lighting and temperature, enhancing comfort.

• Consistent Play Conditions: Indoor courts provide uniform playing conditions, which can help with performance.

Cons

• Cost: Indoor courts may have rental fees, especially if they’re part of a gym or sports complex.

• Crowding: These facilities can also be busy, requiring reservations or timed sessions.

• Subpar Conditions: Some indoor courts do not have high enough ceilings or proper fencing to keep balls inside specific courts.

Outdoor Courts

Overview

Outdoor pickleball courts are commonly located in parks and recreational facilities. They offer fresh air and natural light, creating a different playing atmosphere.

Pros

• Open Space: Playing outdoors can be refreshing and offers a more natural setting.

• Community Vibe: Many outdoor courts are situated in parks, promoting social interactions and community engagement.

• No Indoor Fees: Most outdoor courts are free to use.

Cons

• Weather Dependent: Rain, wind, or extreme heat can interrupt play. Never play on a wet court as lack of traction can easily cause foot, ankle, leg, and muscle injuries.

• Surface Variability: Outdoor courts can vary in quality, affecting play.

• Noise and Distractions: Similar to public courts, outdoor settings can be noisy and distracting.

How to Choose Between Indoor and Outdoor Courts

Your choice will depend on personal preference, availability, and environmental conditions. If you prefer a controlled setting, indoor courts may be the better option. If you enjoy the social aspect and fresh air, outdoor courts could be more appealing.

5. Additional Options for Playing Pickleball

Schools and Universities

Some schools and universities have begun to incorporate pickleball into their sports programs. These courts may be available for public use during off-hours.

Airbnb

Pickleball courts are in such demand that people are renting out houses with backyard pickleball courts for the weekend.  Get friends together for a social weekend and split the costs.

Hotels and Resorts

Many hotels and resorts have added pickleball courts.  Contact them to see if they offer a “day pass” to access their courts.

Bars, Coffee Shops & Shopping Centers

Basically any company that wants customers to stay around their facility.  By offering free access to a pickleball court, a company will encourage customers to purchase their items.  

Finding Facilities

To find additional playing options:

• Google Around Me: Check your local Google search for pickleball courts on a map.

• Social Media Groups: Join local pickleball groups on platforms like Instagram, Facebook or public group websites to connect with players and learn about court availability.

6. Additional Apps and Resources to Find Courts

Technology has made it easier than ever to find pickleball courts near you. Here are some useful apps and websites to consider:

1. USA Pickleball’s Places 2 Play

As mentioned earlier, this online directory is one of the most comprehensive resources for finding pickleball courts. You can search by location, view court details, and see user reviews.

2. Pickleball Finder App

This app allows players to locate nearby courts, check schedules, and even find playing partners. It’s user-friendly and perfect for on-the-go searches.

3. Meetup

Meetup is a platform for finding groups based on your interests. Search for pickleball groups in your area to find playing opportunities and local events.

4. Yelp

While not specifically for pickleball, Yelp can help you find sports complexes and community centers with pickleball facilities. Check reviews to ensure they meet your standards.

Conclusion

Finding the right place to play pickleball can enhance your experience and improve your game. With a variety of options—from public courts to private facilities, indoor versus outdoor environments, and even converted tennis courts—there’s something for everyone.

By leveraging apps and online resources, you can easily discover the best courts in your area, connect with fellow players, and engage in the thriving pickleball community. This is especially true when you travel and want to continue to find a court to play.  Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the key is to explore and be open to different types/styles of play.  Wherever you find a court–you will always find the same community spirit of pickleball and have a great time playing!