The world’s best places to play pickleball

You’ve probably heard the word pickleball recently – even if you weren’t quite sure what it meant. Played with a plastic paddle and a perforated ball, it’s a low-cost, easy-to-learn sport that can be played almost anywhere a temporary net fits. Increasingly, permanent courts are popping up around the world.

Often described as “ping pong you can stand on”, pickleball is slower than tennis – making it accessible to all ages. Though it’s been around for over 50 years, it has exploded in popularity – becoming the fastest-growing sport in the US for four consecutive years and now valued at over US$1.5 billion.

Its global rise is just as impressive. In Asia, the Chinese Mainland alone is projected to have 100 million players within five years. The sport’s visibility has surged thanks to social media and celebrity fans like the Kardashians, George and Amal Clooney, and Olympic legend Michael Phelps. Even tennis greats like Serena Williams, Andre Agassi and Eugenie Bouchard have joined the pickleball wave.

Despite its star power, pickleball remains beginner friendly. Most games are played as doubles anda coin toss or game of rock–paper–scissors decides who serves first. 

Serves must be underhand and diagonal, and both the serve and return must bounce. After that, players can volley or let the ball bounce once. Points are scored only by the serving team and games are typically played to 11, win by 2.

One quirky rule? No volleys in “the kitchen” – a non-volley zone near the net. It’s a simple rule that adds a layer of strategy.

Florida is often called the pickleball capital of the world – but the sport has grown across North America and the Caribbean to now have strong fanbases of “picklers” across the globe. It can be played indoors or outdoors – from dedicated urban centres to luxury resorts and iconic sports venues.

Here are some of the most spectacular places to play pickleball around the world.

1. Central Park Pickleball – New York City

At the beating heart of Manhattan lies Central Park, an iconic destination that is now firmly on the pickleball map thanks to the repurposing of Wollman Rink ice rink for spring and summer. The sports complex now features 14 permanent courts, with coaching, US$5 (HK$39) daily group play, an equipment shop, leagues and even summer camps available through CityPickle . 

2. Melbourne Park – Melbourne

The hallowed hard courts of the Australian Open tennis tournament have added pickleball, so one of the most celebrated venues in racquet sports is also one you can play in at will. The AO Pickleball Slam, held on Court 3, has brought global attention to the sport with elite players and fan participation events.

3. Kimpton La Peer Hotel Pickleball Court – West Hollywood

A rooftop court in the bright lights of Los Angeles offers the glitz and glamour you would expect. Besides the views from the boutique hotel, there are DJs playing and courtside cocktails. Guests can also book lessons with professional coach Anthony Lipe-Ladenheim and enjoy post-game cocktails by the pool, all while soaking in panoramic city views and vivacious Hollywood buzz.

4. Pullman Phu Quoc Beach Resort – Phu Quoc

Pickleball is a recent addition to the resort , with stylish outdoor courts allowing you to bask in the sun and stunning scenery of Bai Truong while working on your drop shots. These beautiful pickleball courts are nestled in lush tropical surroundings and come with complimentary paddles, balls and mineral water for guests, making it easy to jump into a game between beach lounging and spa sessions.

5. Stackd – Hong Kong SAR

A dedicated pickleball location smack-bang in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district, Stackd has everything you could need  – and more you did not know you might want, including AI game analysis. The 11,000sq ft, air-conditioned facility includes three pro courts, two dink courts, luxurious showers and a lounge serving healthy food and drinks – a perfect hub for both social and competitive play.

6. The Manor & Ashbury Resorts – Devon

The world-famous golf resort has gotten into the swing of pickleball , adding several dedicated courts alongside its other sport and spa offerings. If pickleball proves too much, you can always head to the golf course instead. With 15 purpose-built courts across both resorts plus coaching breaks available, it’s one of the UK’s largest pickleball venues. 

7. The Lodhi – New Delhi

In partnership with high-end pickleball brand Elephant Racquet Club, New Delhi’s premier luxury and wellness destination features three dedicated pickleball courts and offers coaching for both newcomers and those looking to up their game at this urban oasis. The facilities are part of the hotel’s state-of-the-art lifestyle club, which also includes a gym, Pilates and spin studios, squash and tennis courts, and a 50m lap pool.