Pickleball has quickly become one of the nation's fastest-growing sports, and the Outer Banks is a great place to keep your game going while on vacation. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to maintain your routine or someone eager to try the sport for the first time, you'll find plenty of opportunities to play throughout the OBX. From public courts to community amenities available in select vacation home neighborhoods, there are numerous ways to enjoy a match during your stay. To help you make the most of your time on the court, we're also sharing expert advice straight from the staff with tips from our Vice President of Operations & Strategy, Dave Roberts, an avid pickleball enthusiast himself.
Before stepping onto the court, a little preparation can go a long way toward making your game more enjoyable. We asked our Vice President of Operations and Strategy, Dave Roberts, an avid pickleball player, to share a few tips for guests looking to play during their Outer Banks vacation. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a beginner learning the basics, these insights can help you stay comfortable, play safely, and make the most of your time on the court.
The most popular place for open play is the outdoor courts at the Dare County Recreation Center in Kill Devil Hills. Depending on the weather, the crowd usually shows up at 8:30
AM. Four courts are usually going.
The Pine Island Racquet & Fitness Center typically requires a reservation, but there are opportunities for open play as well. Make sure to give them a call at (252) 453-8525 to find out the days and times (usually in the morning).
The Village Beach Club in Nags Head has brand new pickleball courts available for daily passes or weekly passes and reservations can be made online. A word to the wise: since this court is oceanside, winds can have a significant impact on the play.
There is a popular Facebook page where both visitors and locals posts when they are looking to play and their skill level. You can connect with fellow vacationers locals and play a good game.
For those at the beginner or intermediate level, there a few teaching pros in the area that Outer Banks Blue can connect you with if you're interested in a private lesson.
Play against Dave! If you're in need of a fourth player, our Vice President of Operations and Strategy is always looking for a game on Wednesdays and is a 4.0.
Whether you're visiting for a week or spending the entire summer on the coast, there are several places across the Outer Banks where you can enjoy a game of pickleball. In addition to public parks and recreation facilities, some local country clubs also offer pickleball courts and programming, with varying levels of access for members, guests, or visitors. From Corolla to Nags Head, these courts provide convenient opportunities to fit in a morning match before a beach day or enjoy an evening game with family and friends. Be sure to check each facility's access policies, fees, and reservation requirements before heading out to play.
602 Mustian Street, Kill Devil Hills
Outdoor court play is available Monday through Saturday mornings and Friday evenings
Heads Up: Indoor courts are open to Dare County residents and property owners only
1634 N. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills
Outdoor courts are free and first-come, first serve.
3000 S. Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
Indoor courts can be set up for pickleball. Membership or fee required. Call (252) 489-8897 to reserve a court or ask about drop-in fees.
1000 Westcott Park Road, Manteo
Three indoor pickleball courts are free, first-come, first-serve and available Monday to Friday mornings and Tuesday afternoons.
260 Pond Road, Wanchese
Four outdoor pickleball courts are free, first-come, first-serve and available sunup to sundown.
290 Audubon Drive, Corolla
Four outdoor and indoor pickleball courts are available for a fee to guests and reservations are required.
One of the perks of staying in certain Outer Banks communities is having access to pickleball courts just steps from your vacation home. Several popular neighborhoods feature dedicated pickleball facilities as part of their resort-style amenities, making it easy to fit in a quick game without ever leaving the community. If pickleball is part of your ideal beach getaway, these neighborhoods are worth considering when choosing where to stay.
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, many communities across the Outer Banks have adapted existing tennis facilities to support the sport. You'll often find tennis courts with pickleball lines painted directly onto the surface, allowing players to enjoy both activities in the same space. Be sure to check your community's amenity information or ask Outer Banks Blue about court access and any equipment requirements before your stay.
Click to view all Outer Banks Blue vacation rentals that offer access to tennis courts
For travelers who love staying active, booking a vacation home near a pickleball court can make your Outer Banks getaway even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a resort-style community with dedicated courts or a home located close to public facilities, Outer Banks Blue offers a variety of vacation rentals that place recreation and relaxation within easy reach. After a friendly match, you can cool off in your private pool, head to the beach, or unwind with family and friends back at your vacation home.
