Where to Play Pickleball in San Clemente
Pickleball, a new sports craze sweeping the nation, is exploding in popularity throughout Orange County. The San Clemente pickleball scene is growing rapidly as new courts, beginner clinics, and professional tournaments continue to pop up.
It’s easy to see why a casual game like pickleball, with its social nature and relaxed atmosphere, appeals to a city always looking for a reason to get outside. The beautiful ocean views and year-round sunshine make it the perfect way to spend the day.
In this article, we’ll explore what pickleball actually is, as well as where you can find the best pickleball courts in San Clemente.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that mixes parts of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton to create a slower-paced game suitable for all ages. You can learn how to play pickleball in just a few minutes and enjoy it for a lifetime.
While it started as an activity mostly played by seniors, that’s not the case anymore. Competitive pickleball has joined the mainstream, with investments from celebrities, athletes, and entertainers.
Major League Pickleball recently held its San Clemente event that closed the inaugural mini-season live on ESPN2. The Los Angeles Mad Drops PC were the season one champions, taking home a huge prize and bragging rights after defeating some of the best pickleball players in the world.
That event followed the Carvana PPA Tour’s Orange County Cup in San Clemente in early June. At the end of this year, the city will host the best players once again when the PPA Finals are held at Life Time.
Photos Courtesy of Pickleheads
Where to play pickleball in
San Clemente
With dedicated facilities, members-only clubs, and public places to play, you’ll never be far from pickleball courts in San Clemente. Here are some of the best:
San Clemente High School
Court rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Head over to San Clemente HS and jump on one of the seven outdoor courts that are free for public use. You’ll have to bring your own net, but the courts are well-maintained and include lights for evening play.
Price: Free
The school holds the Triton Summer Slam Pickleball Tournament to raise money for the San Clemente High School Educational Foundation. All proceeds from the event are going to fund academic programs and projects.
San Gorgonio Park
Court rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Given how popular pickleball in San Clemente has become, San Gorgonio Park had to make some changes. They added four dedicated pickleball courts and painted four more over the tennis area.
The lines are permanent, and portable nets are available for players who want to start dinking.
Price: Free
San Clemente added ‘Acoustifencing’ to the courts to cut down on noise, and despite a tree falling on the fence line, the courts are back up and running.
Life Time - Rancho San Clemente
Court rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Home to professional events and regular clinics, Life Time has eight dedicated courts with permanent nets. The massive facility has food, restrooms, locker rooms, and many other amenities.
Regular open play is every Sunday morning, Monday evening, and Wednesday afternoon. There are also daily clinics and lessons available. Unfortunately, you need to be a member to access these.
Price: Varies by membership level
While the club isn’t currently accepting new members, there are options for you. You can join the waitlist, visit with a member, or wait for one of the bigger events to enjoy this pickleball palace. The Major League Pickleball season two championship is set for early December!
Photo courtesy of Major League Pickleball
Boys and Girls Club of the South Coast Area
Court rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
If you’d prefer to stay out of the sun, the Boys and Girls Club has three indoor courts with portable nets available. The facility has restrooms, water, and hosts a seasonal program that guarantees court time for members.
Price: $75 for summer program
There is weekday morning play during the school year, as well as dedicated Tuesday and Thursday evening slots in the summer months. Guests cannot accompany members, so get on the waitlist before the next program fills up!
San Clemente Inn
Court rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Residents or visitors staying at the San Clemente Inn can access the on-site pickleball court. It is a dual-purpose tennis court, meaning the net is slightly taller than a normal pickleball net. However, it’s still a great place to soak up the sun with some friendly competition.
Price: Available with hotel booking
The Inn is steps away from the beach and just seconds off the freeway, making it a perfect vacation spot for pickleball-loving travelers.
Final thoughts
Pickleball is growing in popularity each day, as more and more people take to the courts. In 2022, there were an estimated 36.5 million pickleball players in the US alone, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Like so many cities across America, San Clemente is working hard to accommodate this growing love for pickleball. With new courts opening up on every corner, there’s never been a better time to join the fun. So, why not grab your paddle and discover what makes pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America?
