Looking for pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale? Whether you crave outdoor play in the sunshine or prefer the comfort of an indoor venue, this guide covers the top spots to enjoy pickleball in the city. From public parks offering free access to facilities with pro-level amenities, you’ll find exactly what you need to hit the court.
I’m a pickleball fanatic! I play 5 days a week around Fort Lauderdale, so I know the area quite well. I put together this guide for locals and tourists alike in hopes that I can help people find out where to play pickleball in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy!
The Fort Lauderdale Pickleball Scene
- Fort Lauderdale is a hotspot for pickleball enthusiasts, offering a variety of outdoor, indoor, and mixed-use courts, catering to different preferences and abilities.
- The city will soon boast a unique facility, ‘The Fort’, with 43 professional indoor courts and a dedicated stadium, setting the bar high for indoor pickleball facilities.
- In addition to courts, Fort Lauderdale provides specialized services such as on-site pro shops, recovery centers, and community engagement through local clubs, leagues, and tournaments.
Exploring Fort Lauderdale’s Pickleball Scene
Pickleball, a sport that marries elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has found a fitting home in Fort Lauderdale. The city, known for its sunny climate and love for outdoor activities, offers a rich tapestry of pickleball courts. Here are some options:
- Outdoor courts
- Indoor courts
- Dedicated courts
- Dual-use courts
Fort Lauderdale caters to everyone’s pickleball needs.
The city’s commitment to the sport, paired with its picturesque parks and waterfront locations, create an unparalleled pickleball experience, fostering an ideal environment for the game to thrive.
Fort Lauderdale’s Top Pickleball Destinations
Fort Lauderdale is brimming with public pickleball courts, each with its unique charm. One such spot is Carter Park, renowned for its three impeccable courts and the energetic spirit of its players. The park’s well-maintained courts, coupled with a competitive atmosphere, make it a go-to destination for pickleball enthusiasts.
Middle River Terrace Park and Central Beach, too, stand out on Fort Lauderdale’s pickleball map. Middle River Terrace Park offers a couple of courts known for organizing regular games that welcome players of varying abilities. Central Beach, on the other hand, adds a distinctive seaside backdrop to the pickleball experience, allowing players to enjoy the sport near the ocean. Imagine the salty sea breeze accompanying your every shot!
Sunrise Middle School: The Pickleball Hub with 14 Courts
Sunrise Middle School is not your ordinary education institution. After school hours, it transforms into a bustling pickleball hub boasting 14 permanent courts. These well-maintained courts are open for public use, providing the community with ample space for evening and weekend play at no cost.
In addition to the high-quality playing surfaces, the facility includes restrooms for players’ convenience, enhancing the overall playing experience. The school’s dedicated space for both casual and competitive players further cements its reputation as a significant contributor to the local pickleball community.
Holiday Park’s Six-Court Pickleball Haven
Welcome to Holiday Park, a haven for pickleball lovers. The park features six dedicated outdoor hard courts, complete with permanent lines and nets. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, these courts cater to your schedule, equipped with lighting for evening games.
But that’s not all. To add comfort to your pickleball experience, players have access to restrooms and water. And guess what? Enjoying these facilities comes absolutely free of charge. Playing pickleball at Holiday Park is not just about the game; it’s about the entire experience.
Outdoor Pickleball Courts: Where to Find Them
If you’re a fan of soaking up the Florida sunshine while engaging in a thrilling game of pickleball, Fort Lauderdale has you covered. The city is dotted with outdoor courts located in various parks, each offering its unique flavor of the game. Here are some of the parks with pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale:
- Florence C Hardy Park: 2 outdoor courts
- Joseph C. Carter Park: 3 courts
- Riverside Park: 1 court
- Park on SW 112th Ter: 2 courts
And if you fancy a free play session, Bass Park’s court awaits, with no reservations required!
George English Park: Eight Courts for Uninterrupted Play
Among the city’s outdoor pickleball offerings, George English Park commands attention with its eight public courts, including tennis courts. Each court is equipped with permanent lines, underscoring the park’s dedication to the sport and facilitating continuous, uninterrupted play.
While specific details about the facilities are currently unavailable, the park’s commitment to maintain and promote these courts for enthusiasts is evident. So, whether you’re seeking a friendly match or want to hone your skills, George English Park is a destination worth exploring.
Oakland Park’s Pickleball Oasis
If you’re in the mood for a game set against a scenic backdrop, Oakland Park is the place to be. With a total of eight outdoor pickleball courts awaiting players, it’s easy to see why it’s referred to as a pickleball oasis.
Five of these courts are located at Wimberly Fields Park, all equipped with permanent lines and nets for official play. These well-maintained courts provide players with the opportunity for both open and reserved play, accommodating various preferences. So, whether you prefer a spontaneous game or a scheduled match, Oakland Park is ready to serve.
Indoor Pickleball Facilities: Beat the Heat and Rain
While outdoor courts offer the thrill of playing under the Florida sun, indoor facilities provide a respite from the occasional heat and rain. In Fort Lauderdale, you’re never far from an indoor pickleball court. The city is prepping for a game-changer in indoor play – a facility called The Fort – slated to open in 2024.
With 43 professional courts and a dedicated pickleball stadium, The Fort promises to take indoor pickleball to new heights in its very own dedicated pickleball stadium.
Osswald Park: Four Indoor Courts for Year-Round Fun
For those looking for year-round indoor play, Osswald Park is an excellent choice. The park houses four permanent indoor pickleball courts open to the public, ensuring that the fun continues, come rain or shine.
The courts are designed to provide uninterrupted play, no matter the outdoor weather conditions. So, if you’re a pickleball enthusiast not keen on interrupting your game due to a sudden downpour or a scorching sunny day, Osswald Park has got you covered.
Specialty Pickleball Services in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to pickleball goes beyond providing courts for play. The city offers specialized services to enhance your pickleball experience. Whether you’re looking for professional coaching, gear and advice from a pro shop, or a post-play recovery center, Fort Lauderdale has it all.
On-Site Pro Shops for Gear and Advice
The Fort, set to open in 2024, is more than a pickleball facility. It’s a destination that aims to enhance every aspect of your pickleball journey. One such enhancement is its on-site pro shop. This hub provides both casual and competitive players with gear and expert advice, ensuring that you’re well-equipped for the game.
But The Fort doesn’t stop at pickleball. It offers a comprehensive experience with additional amenities like The Lakehouse restaurant, a spacious event center, and a game yard with live music. So, whether you’re winding down after a game or celebrating a win, The Fort offers the perfect setting.
Post-Play Recovery Centers to Rejuvenate Players
Pickleball is a physically demanding sport, and The Fort understands that. That’s why it houses a professional post-play recovery center to serve players. Designed with player rejuvenation in mind, the recovery center caters to the needs of competitive pickleball players after their games.
The recovery center includes a fitness area and offers specialized services to assist players in recovering from the physical demands of pickleball. With its extensive facilities, The Fort is not just a pickleball venue; it’s a comprehensive facility for players.
Joining the Pickleball Community
You’ve discovered the courts and facilities, but what about the people? The pickleball scene in Fort Lauderdale is as much about its welcoming and diverse community as it is about the sport. From local clubs to leagues and tournaments, there are plenty of ways to engage with fellow pickleball enthusiasts. We really enjoy playing on Saturday mornings and then hitting up the local breweries to reward ourselves with a beer or two!
Engaging with Local Pickleball Clubs
Local pickleball clubs play a significant role in bringing pickleball aficionados together. Holiday Park, for example, is known for its active engagement, including regular meetups and friendly matches. These activities are designed to welcome new players and encourage membership in the local pickleball community.
Joining a club is easy. You can find local pickleball clubs through community centers, sports clubs, and even online forums. So, whether you’re new to the city or looking to make some new friends, joining a pickleball club could be the perfect start.
Signing Up for Leagues and Tournaments
If you’re looking to take your pickleball game to the next level, consider signing up for a league or tournament. Sunrise Middle School, for instance, is known for organizing tournaments that attract local and regional participants.
There are several leagues to choose from, such as the South Florida Club Sport’s Social Pickleball League and the Tequila Tuesdays Ladder Pickleball League. These platforms provide an excellent opportunity for players to engage in competitive play and hone their skills. So, are you ready to take on the challenge and play pickleball?
New and Noteworthy: Latest Additions to Fort Lauderdale’s Pickleball Courts
As the pickleball community in Fort Lauderdale continues to grow, so do the facilities. The city is constantly evolving to accommodate the sport’s burgeoning popularity, with new courts being introduced and existing ones undergoing enhancements.
Let’s take a look at some of the latest additions and upcoming developments in the city’s pickleball infrastructure.
Bass Park’s Recent Addition: A Single Court Making a Big Impact
One of the recent additions to Fort Lauderdale’s pickleball scene is a single outdoor hard court at Bass Park. This court, situated on a traditional tennis court, is a testament to the city’s commitment to the sport, showcasing its versatility to serve both tennis and pickleball.
While it might be just one court, its permanent features and unique design make it a notable contribution to the local pickleball scene. It’s proof that sometimes, less is indeed more!
Anticipated Developments in Pickleball Infrastructure
Looking to the future, Fort Lauderdale is set to welcome a major addition to its pickleball infrastructure – The Fort. Slated for a grand opening in 2024, this nine-acre state-of-the-art pickleball complex is set to be a game-changer.
With 43 professional courts, a world’s first pickleball stadium, and provisions for clinics, leagues, and tournaments, The Fort is set to be a hub for both open and reserved play. But it’s not just about the sport. The facility will enhance local recreation with live music, food and drink options, and a seven-acre restored lake, making it a destination in its own right.
Fort Lauderdale’s Commitment to Pickleball
The Fort’s construction and the city’s support for community programs and events underline Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to pickleball. Championed by Mayor Dean Trantalis, the City of Fort Lauderdale has supported The Fort through a public-private partnership, emphasizing its aim to foster a world-class live-work-play environment and promote pickleball tourism within both public and private sectors.
This commitment reflects the city’s dedication to creating a vibrant and inclusive pickleball community.
Summary
Fort Lauderdale is more than just a city that offers a variety of pickleball courts. It is a city that has embraced the sport with open arms, fostering a diverse and welcoming community of players. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a casual player, or just curious about the sport, Fort Lauderdale provides the perfect setting for an unparalleled pickleball experience. So, why wait? Grab your paddle, join the community, and let the games begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find local pickleball courts?
To find local pickleball courts, you can use online directories, contact your local parks and recreation department, ask at your local gym or community center, check with your local pickleball association, or ask fellow players. Good luck!
Where is pickleball popular in Florida?
Pickleball is most popular in Jacksonville, Boca Raton, and Sarasota in Florida, with each city having over 20 courts. So, if you’re looking to play pickleball in Florida, these cities are a good place to start!
How many pickleball courts are there in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
There are 10 pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale, FL. You can enjoy playing pickleball at these facilities.
What is the name of the park with 14 pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale?
The park with 14 pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale is Sunrise Middle School. You can head there for some great pickleball games!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
