How to Vacation with Your Non-Pickleball Family, and Still Get Your Pickleball Fix In
Balance family bonding with a few solid dinks
Vacations with family are sacred. But when you’re hooked on pickleball, the idea of taking a full week off the court can feel… itchy. The good news? You can travel with your non-playing partner, kids, or friends and keep your paddle warm. The key is subtlety, flexibility, and a bit of strategic planning. Here are a few tips to keep you (and everyone else) happy.
1. Choose the Right Resort or Rental
Before you book, check if the property has courts. Not just tennis courts where you might tape off a pickleball line—but actual, dedicated pickleball courts. Increasingly, resorts and vacation rentals are advertising this upfront. Use platforms like PicklePlay or even Google Maps (search “pickleball near me” once you’ve zoomed into a destination) to scope it out. Keep in mind, the resort or property itself doesn't have to have courts, if there are public courts with a good scene nearby, that can be even better.
2. Be an Early Bird
You don’t need to disappear all morning. Sneak in a sunrise session while everyone else is sleeping, scrolling, or sipping their first coffee. Many players find courts quiet early, and you’ll be back in time for breakfast and the day’s main activity.
3. Bring Your Social Game
You’re on vacation—play like it. Keep things casual and friendly, maybe even bring an extra paddle and recruit curious onlookers. Vacation settings are perfect for introducing pickleball to your crew without pressure. Who knows? Your non-player might become your doubles partner by day three.
4. Combine It With Other Activities
Look for destinations where the courts are located near a spa, bar, pool, or kids’ club. That way, while you’re playing, your family is happily occupied nearby. Everyone reconvenes refreshed and content.
5. Don’t Overdo It
You’re not training for nationals. You’re on vacation. If you miss a day or two, it’s fine. Stretch, relax, and maybe work on your footwork poolside with a mojito in hand. That counts as cross-training, right.
To jumpstart your research, here are a few destinations that fit the bill:
1. Baha Mar – Nassau, Bahamas
This luxurious resort features six dedicated pickleball courts, beachfront views, and enough restaurants, pools, and family activities to keep even the most pickleball-averse guests entertained. Plus: flamingos.
2. JW Marriott Desert Springs – Palm Desert, CA
Massive tennis center, multiple pickleball courts, and a spa that might convert your skeptical spouse into a daily massage junkie. Ideal for couples or families who love a little desert glam.
3. Club Med – Cancun, Mexico
All-inclusive, kid-friendly, and now officially pickleball-friendly. Club Med recently upgraded many of its properties to include courts. Cancun’s version has the bonus of turquoise water and strong margaritas.
4. Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya – Mexico
This all-inclusive resort brings casual, toes-in-the-sand vibes with fewer dollar signs than the luxury giants. Pickleball courts are part of the amenities, and the laid-back energy means your non-playing family members can chill poolside with cocktails while you log a few games. Great food, family-friendly atmosphere, and regular entertainment.
5. The Shores Resort & Spa – Daytona Beach, Florida
Right on the ocean, this mid-range resort offers solid amenities without the South Florida price tag. While the resort doesn’t have its own courts, you’re minutes away from several public pickleball centers, including the well-maintained Daytona Beach Pickleball Complex. Easy beach access, family-friendly attractions, and sunrise games just down the road.
6. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort – Zion National Park, Utah
Perfect for adventurous families who want to hike, ride ATVs, stargaze—and yes, play pickleball. This resort offers glamping tents, cabins, or vacation homes at various price points, and has on-site pickleball courts surrounded by red rock views. It’s not a beach vacation, but the scenery is hard to beat.
