Pickleball Court Reservations, Play Sessions Now Open At Memorial Park

SANTA MONICA, CA — Pickleball players in Santa Monica can now book court time at Memorial Park and participate in sessions with other players at their skill level.

Due to rising demand, the city is offering the space as well as novice, intermediate and advanced player sessions. Sessions are $3 for Santa Monica residents and $5 for non-residents and are available:

• Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m to 9:30 p.m.
• Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

“I’m thrilled to see this new system come online for those who are brand new to the sport, for our intermediate players or for advanced players wishing to play with others at their skill level,” Director of Recreation and Arts Jenny Rogers said. “Through our partnership with the pickleball club and the school district, we are able to offer a diverse array of experiences for pickleball enthusiasts here in Santa Monica.

Over five million players enjoy pickleball nationwide, making it the fastest-growing sport in America. However, finding space to play has been a struggle as both tennis players and pickleball players vie for the same spaces.

Santa Monica's city pickleball program started in 2015 but has grown since the pandemic when officials partnered with the Santa Monica Pickleball Club to offer drop-in sessions. The new reservable system is intended to offer an informal drop-in experience while also providing better access to courts.

The tennis/pickleball courts at John Adams Middle School are still available for drop-in play on weekends.