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If you could design a new resort complex, what would you build in addition to a pool and fitness center? How about a few pickleball courts? With the astounding number of seasoned players and new ones joining the sport all the time, many holiday makers are looking for accommodations where they can enjoy this activity. 

Pickleball is recognized as yet another great way to stay in shape and get the required amount of exercise and cardio for long-term health. Not only that, but since it’s relatively easy to learn the rules and doesn’t demand a high level of fitness, people of all ages are drawn to it as a social activity. 

While being on vacation is certainly a time for rest and relaxation, it’s also an opportunity to explore new environments, try exciting things, and meet individuals from other walks of life. A game of pickleball can check many of these boxes. Here are some great places to stay that offer this opportunity. 
 
Palmetto Dunes 
 
Pickleball courts are a standard amenity at this well-liked destination that’s located in South Carolina on Hilton Head Island. The complex has an impressive 16 pickleball courts. And, you can even learn the sport or improve your playing strategy by signing up for one of a number of classes and clinics. What’s more, you can participate in a daily tournament that has spots for up to 72 players in total. 
 
Club Med 
 
If you know anything about Club Med, you’ll be aware that they have numerous resorts around the world in a variety of sought-after locations. These are places that provide all-inclusive services focused on families or couples. Oftentimes, the hotels are close to beaches, rain forests, national parks, alpine mountains, or other areas of natural beauty. 
 
With pickleball courts featured at some of the best Club Med properties—Punta Cana, La Caravelle, Sandpiper Bay, and Ixtapa Pacific—it’s no wonder that the organization is seeing a recent surge in groups of pickleball players booking a stay. Plus, there are plans to add even more courts to accommodate the additional 200 to 300 guests that the activity attracts annually. 
 
Velas Vallarta 
 
A popular Mexican travel destination, Puerto Vallarta boasts an all-inclusive resort called Velas Vallarta. As a result of ongoing inquiries from guests, in 2019 the complex added a place to play pickleball. The court is open 12 hours a day. People can bring their own equipment or rent paddles and balls on site. There’s also the opportunity to take lessons from an instructor. Interestingly, the hotel bar has created the Pickle Boost, a new cocktail to celebrate the construction of the court. 
 
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa 
 
This establishment in Palm Springs, California, has recently realized that pickleball is fast replacing tennis as the game of choice for many of its guests. In an effort to better accommodate the needs of all individuals who stay at the hotel, last year Omni Rancho Las Palmas changed two of their tennis courts into venues for pickleball. 
 
The decision is definitely paying off with an uptick in family bookings where everyone is keen to play pickleball together. This speaks to the fact that the new sport is not as challenging as tennis and more accessible to people regardless of their age. 
 
Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman 
 
At the Ritz-Carlton, two new pickleball courts were installed late last year, making this another wonderful place to plan a family holiday. The resort has a director of recreation on staff, and guests can purchase private pickleball lessons to hone their skills. In fact, the facility pitches pickleball vacations as one of its offerings. 
 
Plaza Hotel and Casino 
 
Another terrific holiday complex that has notable pickleball facilities is the Plaza Hotel and Casino in the heart of Las Vegas. In 2016, the hotel renovated its pool deck and demonstrated forward-thinking by building 12 courts dedicated to pickleball. Furthermore, it designed a tennis court that can readily be changed into an additional four courts for pickleball. 
 
There’s no faulting this investment, as it has made the Plaza a hub for players of this sport near and far. Serious participants with years of experience come to this location for competitions. Last year the first-ever Las Vegas Pickleball Open took place here. The event incorporated a professional tournament for a purse of $25,000, as well as an amateur tournament that some 400 people attended. Incredibly, the next championship is expected to bring in 600 or 700 pickleballers. 
 
In closing 
 
It’s no secret that this new sport is quickly developing into a leisure pursuit favored by individuals and families alike. Whether you’re organizing a trip that suits everyone in the family or looking for a fun time away with your significant other, consider a locale that includes pickleball courts. 
 
The activity is easy to pack for, quick to learn, and won’t break your vacation budget. It’s another approach to getting fresh air and exercise and making great memories.