Hospitality industry embraces pickleball
The Business of Pickleball: A Game-Changer for Hotels and Resorts
Pickleball, the paddle sport blending tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has evolved from a niche pastime to a powerful driver of business for the hospitality industry. With its explosive growth, hotels and resorts are seeing a new trend: travelers, particularly avid pickleball players, are choosing properties with onsite or nearby courts. For business travelers who weave pickleball into their daily routines, access to a court is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity that maintains their fitness and fosters professional relationships. This shift presents a golden opportunity for hotels to attract guests, boost revenue, and stand out in a crowded market.
Why Pickleball Appeals to Guests
Pickleball’s charm lies in its accessibility and social vibe. It’s easy to pick up, requires minimal gear, and encourages interaction, making it perfect for guests of all ages and abilities. For business travelers, a pickleball court offers a way to stay active while networking with colleagues or clients in a fun, low-pressure environment. Regular players increasingly prioritize destinations that support their passion, influencing their hotel bookings. By offering pickleball facilities, hotels can capture this growing demographic, enhance guest satisfaction, and drive loyalty.
Converting Tennis Courts: A Low-Cost, High-Return Strategy
Many hotels have aging tennis courts that see little use—an untapped asset waiting to be repurposed. Converting these courts to pickleball is a cost-effective way to revitalize underused space. A single tennis court can typically accommodate three to four pickleball courts, dramatically increasing capacity. Since pickleball is often played in doubles, up to eight players can use the same footprint that once served two tennis players, potentially yielding eight times the court usage.
The conversion process is straightforward and budget-friendly. Adding pickleball lines and installing temporary or permanent nets can be done quickly, with minimal disruption. Hotels unsure about committing can start with temporary setups to gauge demand. The payoff is clear: low upfront costs, higher guest engagement, and increased bookings from pickleball enthusiasts.
Programming for Maximum Impact
Providing courts is just the start—strategic programming can turn pickleball into a guest magnet. Open play sessions, drop-in clinics, and social tournaments cater to both seasoned players and curious beginners. Broadcasting these events through email, in-room materials, or lobby signage ensures guests know what’s available. Supplying paddles, balls, water, and towels creates a seamless experience that encourages participation.
To amplify revenue, hotels can integrate pickleball into their food and beverage offerings. A “Dinks & Drinks” event—named after the sport’s signature soft shot—could combine pre-happy hour open play with an invitation to the lounge for cocktails and networking. This social, revenue-generating concept leverages pickleball’s community spirit to keep guests engaged and spending.
The Social Edge
Pickleball’s drop-in culture sets it apart from sports like tennis, which often require pre-arranged partners. Its inclusive nature makes it easy for guests to join games spontaneously, fostering connections among business travelers or vacationers. Hotels that embrace this social aspect can create memorable experiences that boost guest satisfaction, encourage repeat visits, and generate glowing reviews.
The Future of Pickleball in Hospitality
With over 36 million players in the U.S. alone (per the 2024 Sports & Fitness Industry Association report), pickleball’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. Hotels and resorts that invest in pickleball facilities and programming will gain a competitive edge, attracting a dedicated and growing market. Those slow to adapt risk losing ground to properties that prioritize this in-demand amenity.
For hotels or resorts ready to seize this opportunity, expert guidance can make all the difference. Pickleball Development and Investments (PDI) specializes in helping hospitality brands craft pickleball strategies, from court conversions to programming and marketing, tailored to properties worldwide. With PDI’s expertise, hotels can transform their facilities into pickleball hubs that drive bookings, engagement, and revenue.
Ready to make your property a pickleball destination? Contact PDI to learn how to serve up a winning strategy for your hotel or resort, anywhere in the world.