Why Naples Is a Must-Visit for Pickleball Players
Why Naples Is a Must-Visit for Pickleball Players
Pickleball may be “the fastest growing sport in America,” but few places have embraced it as early—or as fully—as Naples, Florida. With dedicated courts across the city, tournaments that attract players from around the world, and upscale places to stay just minutes from the action, it’s easy to see why this Gulf Coast destination has become a favorite among pickleballers. Whether you’re here to compete, practice, or simply find open play while on vacation, Naples offers the kind of pickleball experience worth planning a trip around.
A Network of Top‑Tier Courts
East Naples Community Park
East Naples Community Park is undeniably the crown jewel of pickleball in Naples, with 65 dedicated outdoor hard courts, including six championship courts and 59 standard courts. Courts have permanent lines, nets, lights, and seating; a $10 daily fee (or $100 for the year) gives you access to it all. On-site amenities include restrooms, water stations, food vendors, and a full pro shop with gear and apparel. The USOP National Pickleball Center offers year-round lessons, open play, and skills sessions.
Each spring, the park serves as the permanent home to the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships Powered by Margaritaville, welcoming thousands of players and over 50,000 fans, firmly establishing Naples on the global pickleball map.
Veterans Community Park
Located in North Naples, Veterans Community Park offers a more relaxed alternative to the tournament-focused East Naples facility. It has 14 outdoor courts—eight unlit and six lighted for evening play. Play here is consistent and well-organized, with regular round robins and casual open-play sessions.
For the most up-to-date information on play times, social games, and upcoming tournaments, players often turn to the Veterans Park Pickleball Facebook group, where you can connect with local members.
Fleischmann Park Community Center
Fleischmann Park was the first park in Collier County to offer pickleball, and it’s still a local favorite. Conveniently located next to Coastland Center between Goodlette Road and US 41, this park features six newly-lined outdoor courts with daily morning play from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. The format is casual and welcoming, with a $5 drop-in fee or a $25 yearly membership. Regulars form a friendly, social group that’s open to visitors and newcomers alike, making it an easy spot to meet others and get in a few games while you’re in town. You can check out the Facebook group here.
YMCA of Collier County – North Campus
The YMCA of Collier County’s North Campus in Naples offers a full slate of pickleball opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Members and guests can join lessons, clinics, junior programs, tournaments, and regular social play, all led by certified instructors.
The facility includes four indoor courts inside the main gym and six outdoor courts at the Tennis Center. Indoor open play runs Monday through Thursday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., with beginner/intermediate sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays and intermediate/advanced sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Outdoor play is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Pickleball is included with a YMCA membership. Non-members may join with a $5 daily fee or a $20 monthly pass. A valid photo ID is required on the first visit.
Must-See Pickleball Events
The Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships
Held each spring at East Naples Community Park, the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships Powered by Margaritaville has become one of the sport’s largest and most celebrated events. Since its debut in 2016, this tournament has welcomed amateur, professional, and international players across a range of brackets, including men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and age-based divisions.
The 2025 tournament drew over 3,450 players and more than 55,000 fans from all 50 states and 40 countries, solidifying Naples’ reputation as the “pickleball capital of the country.” This year also marked a historic moment: tennis legend Andre Agassi made his pickleball debut alongside world No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, drawing even more attention to The Biggest Pickleball Party in the World™.
Where to Stay Near the Courts
Suppose you're attending the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships or planning to play at East Naples Community Park. In that case, several upscale properties offer quick and easy access. For example, Naples Bay Resort & Marina, AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue, Bellasera Hotel, Inn on Fifth, and The Escalante all put you within a 15-minute drive of the courts, while also keeping you close to downtown dining and waterfront views.
The Vanderbilt Beach area is ideal for those hoping to play at Veterans Community Park. Options like The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Vanderbilt Beach Resort, and LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort provide comfort and convenience just minutes from the courts.
And if you're heading to Fleischmann Park Community Center, consider staying at Edgewater Beach Hotel or the soon-to-open Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort—both just a short drive from this local favorite.
Pickleball That’s Worth the Trip
Whether you're competing in a championship, picking up a paddle for the first time, or planning a trip around open play and local events, Naples makes it easy to connect with the sport at every level. With high-quality courts, a supportive community, and exceptional places to stay, this is a destination that serves players as thoughtfully as it serves guests. For world-class pickleball, ONLY Paradise will do.