Santa Monica Pickleball Center Celebrates Grand Opening

SANTA MONICA — The Santa Monica Pickleball Center officially opened to the public on Sunday, Dec. 4, making it one of the few facilities dedicated to the growing sport in Los Angeles County.

Over $250,000 has been invested into the new facility, according to officials, and it provides four lighted outdoor pickleball courts and two thousand square feet of retail space that offers top-of-the-line pickleball equipment.

“We believe that this new center will bring in people from all over the country and potentially the world,” said Julio Rivera, Director of Pickleball at the Santa Monica Tennis Center. “Organized leagues and tournaments will be offered in the next few months, and we encourage everyone to get involved no matter your skill level.”

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.

Celebrity pickleball players are also on the rise with Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Ferrel, Stephen Colbert and Kelly Rowland all enjoying the sport. Even Jamie Foxx produces his own line of pickleball paddles, which are on sale at the Santa Monica Pickleball Center.

"Its popularity is attributed to a feeling of inclusiveness and teamwork while getting a great workout," Santa Monica Pickleball Center officials said

Director Rivera, a level one certified pickleball instructor, said he is excited to offer private lessons, clinics, camps and workshops through the new center.

The Pickleball Center is located at 2501 Wilshire Blvd. in Santa Monica and is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with extended hours for special events. For more information visit the center's website.