From Beach to Court: Where to Find Pickleball Courts in New Smyrna Beach, FL
Nestled along Florida’s stunning Atlantic coast, New Smyrna Beach is a treasure trove of natural beauty and experiences. If you’re an active vacationer and don’t want to put a halt on your sports activities while traveling, this Florida gem provides spaces where you can engage in a wide array of outdoor pursuits — including pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in America.
Not familiar with this trendy sport? Here’s a quick explanation: Pickleball is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. The courts are smaller than tennis courts, making the sport easier on the knees and hips, which contributes to its popularity among people of all ages.
Whether you’re a pro or a soon-to-be pickler, this blog is for you! Since the sport has only become popular in the US in the last few years, pickleball courts in some cities are still hidden gems. But we’ve made it easy for you to find them.
Are you asking yourself where to find pickleball courts in New Smyrna Beach, FL? Below, we’ve curated the best pickleball courts in New Smyrna Beach for you to try your hand at this delightful activity.
Curious about other local tips and hidden gems? At our New Smyrna Beach destination blog, we offer expert insights on everything from the best restaurants and nightlife to fishing tips and hidden gems. Our goal is to make your stay in New Smyrna Beach unforgettable!
Looking for the perfect vacation home? Visit our booking page for a curated selection of the best vacation rentals in New Smyrna Beach. We’re here to ensure you have everything you need for an amazing trip.
Pickleball Courts in New Smyrna Beach, FL
Detwiler Park
Detwiler Park offers a well-equipped facility for pickleball enthusiasts with its 8 outdoor courts. Popular among locals for morning pickleball sessions, the courts have permanent lines on concrete surfaces and portable nets, allowing for flexibility in court setup. The courts are free, and additional amenities like lighting, restrooms, and water facilities make it a comfortable and convenient option for both casual and regular players. Since Detwiler Park is a multi-sport venue, you’ll also find tennis and basketball courts.
Address: 701 Oakwood Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
Pettis Park
Pettis Park has 3 concrete outdoor courts with permanent lines and nets. They are open to the public and free of charge. The courts have lighting for those who prefer to play during the evening and stay open until 11 PM—a great advantage for those hot summer days. The park is also one of the best places in New Smyrna Beach to engage in outdoor activities. It features playgrounds, picnic areas, pavilions, a barbecue pit, two tennis courts, two basketball courts, a multipurpose field, and an amazing and colorful skate park (that’s also bike-friendly). The park is also home to a historical Heritage House, an original shotgun-style home.
Address: 800 Mary Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Babe James Community Center
The Babe James Community Center offers a well-equipped indoor facility for pickleball enthusiasts. Its two courts with permanent lines painted on wood and portable nets are free of charge and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The opening hours are from Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to approximately 2:00 PM. The center also offers other great amenities such as ample parking, a gymnasium, game rooms, an art center, basketball courts (both indoor and outdoor), and table tennis.
Address: 201 N Myrtle Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Live Oak Cultural Center
The Live Oak Cultural Center offers a good playing experience with its three dedicated outdoor pickleball courts. They’re concrete courts with permanent nets and lines and are free of charge. Keep in mind that if you choose Live Oak Cultural Center for your pickleball session, playing times are limited to daylight hours due to the lack of lighting. Everyone from all levels is welcome to join or create open play sessions.
Address: 1050 S. Live Oak Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL
Sugar Mill Country Club
If you want to play pickleball in style, the elegant Sugar Mill Country Club recently opened three top-notch dedicated pickleball courts. However, to have access to their facilities, you have to be a member. If you’re a regular vacationer to New Smyrna Beach, becoming a member is a great idea. The club also offers a state-of-the-art golfing course, four Har-Tru clay tennis courts, and superb dining experiences.
Address: 100 Clubhouse Circle, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Pickleball Courts Nearby New Smyrna Beach, FL
Sica Hall Community Center
Sica Hall Community Center in Daytona Beach, just a 24-minute drive from New Smyrna Beach, is home to two courts for pickleball players. They’re outdoor concrete courts with permanent lines specifically for pickleball, ensuring clear boundaries for gameplay. However, the courts use tennis nets rather than dedicated pickleball nets, requiring players to adapt to this setup. The courts are available for a fee on a first-come, first-serve basis. Since the center is not usually very busy, you might easily find a court available for your pickleball session.
Address: 1065 Daytona Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32117
McElroy Park
Located in Daytona Beach Shores, McElroy Park’s pickleball facilities are well-equipped and maintained, offering a great option for both casual players and those looking for more structured play or tournaments. The park features 10 outdoor dedicated pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets. They’re all free to the public and equipped with lights, allowing for extended play hours (until 10 PM).
Note: The park offers an “Introduction to Pickleball” class on Mondays at 8:30 AM. Players must pre-register for the class two days in advance, and a minimum of 4 players is required to hold the class.
Address: 3048 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
Bonus: What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a fast-growing paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum.
What Does the Equipment Look Like?
Pickleball uses a perforated plastic ball (similar to a wiffle ball) and solid paddles larger than ping-pong paddles.
What Are the Main Differences Between Pickleball and Tennis?
Although both sports are racquet-based, they have many differences. Here are the main ones:
- Court Size: Tennis courts are significantly larger, measuring 78 feet long and 27-36 feet wide (singles vs doubles). Pickleball courts are much smaller, measuring 20 feet wide by 44 feet long for both singles and doubles.
- Net Height: Tennis nets are higher, at 3 feet in the center. Pickleball nets are lower, at 34 inches in the center and 36 inches at the sidelines.
- Equipment: Tennis uses larger stringed racquets and felt-covered rubber balls. Pickleball uses smaller solid paddles and perforated plastic balls.
- Serves: Tennis allows overhand serves, which can be powerful scoring opportunities. Pickleball requires underhand serves, making it harder to score directly from a serve.
- Scoring: Tennis uses a 15, 30, 40 scoring system with games, sets, and matches. Pickleball uses a simpler system, playing to 11 points (win by 2).
- Gameplay: Tennis involves more running and court coverage due to the larger court size. Pickleball has a “non-volley zone” (kitchen) near the net, creating unique strategic elements.
- Pace: Tennis generally involves more powerful shots and faster gameplay. Pickleball tends to have a slower pace, focusing more on control and placement.
Is Pickleball More Accessible Than Tennis?
Yes! While tennis can be more physically demanding and may have a steeper learning curve, pickleball is easy to learn, easier on the joints, and more accessible to beginners and players of various ages and fitness levels. These differences contribute to pickleball’s growing popularity, especially among former tennis players looking for a less physically demanding but still engaging racquet sport.
How Can I Find Other Pickleball Enthusiasts to Play With While on the Road?
PickleUp is a popular mobile application designed specifically for pickleball enthusiasts. Users can search for pickleball courts by city or location name. The app provides details about each location and offers directions. You can even create events and invite others to play, as well as create buddy lists to connect with other players.
The Joy of Pickleball: Beyond the Game
Pickleball isn’t just a game; it’s a community! One of the best parts of playing pickleball in New Smyrna Beach is the opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts.
Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach, FL
Want another tip from us? When you visit New Smyrna Beach, choose vacation rentals over hotels to enjoy a place with local vibes and all the privacy you want.
At Great Ocean Condos & Homes, we offer plenty of beach vacation properties, cozy condos, and charming homes in this area. This is another way to immerse yourself in the local culture — shop at local markets, stroll through nearby neighborhoods, and dine at local restaurants.
You’ll truly feel like a local.
For a selection of the very best vacation homes in New Smyrna Beach, visit our booking page. For all the above, we’ve got you covered.
Not to brag, but we are very proud to have earned the official title of one of the “Best Vacation Rental Professionals in the World” from Business Insider.
