Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s easy to learn and suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. With its rising popularity, many travelers want to know if they can enjoy playing pickleball during their vacation in Aruba. In this article, we’ll explore the availability of pickleball courts in Aruba and where to find them.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played on a court with a net and uses a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The game can be played with singles or doubles, and the objective is to hit the ball over the net and land it within the boundaries of the court.
The Popularity of Pickleball
Pickleball has become a popular sport in recent years, with an estimated 3.3 million players in the United States alone. Its popularity has also spread to other countries, including Aruba.
Pickleball Courts in Aruba
Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and perfect weather. However, not many people know that the island also offers pickleball courts for those who love to play the game. Here are some of the places where you can play pickleball in Aruba.
Aruba Beach Club & Casa del Mar Resorts
The Aruba Beach Club & Casa del Mar Resorts offer pickleball facilities for their guests. However, the courts must be reserved in advance at the ABC Front Desk, and there are no walk-ons allowed. The use of tennis and pickleball facilities is provided strictly for the guests of the resorts, and the court hours are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba
The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba is another place where you can play pickleball in Aruba. According to a TripAdvisor forum, there are pickleball courts between the Marriott and Holiday Inn resorts. However, it’s always best to check with the hotel beforehand to confirm availability.
Centro Deportivo Betico Croes (Sporthal)
Centro Deportivo Betico Croes (Sporthal) is a sports complex in Aruba that offers various sports facilities, including pickleball courts. According to Places2Play, Gerald Franca is the President of the “Aruba Sport Unie,” an association of 32 sports federations founded in 1941. He is also the person who started pickleball in Aruba.
Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club
Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club offers pickleball courts that are open to all guests and complimentary to use. The courts are located in the resort and offer a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends and family.
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Playing Pickleball in Aruba
If you’re planning to play pickleball in Aruba, here are some things to keep in mind.
Equipment
Most of the pickleball courts in Aruba provide paddles and balls for players to use. However, it’s always best to check with the facility beforehand to see if you need to bring your own equipment.
Attire
Since pickleball is a fast-paced sport, it’s important to wear comfortable athletic shoes and clothing that allows for ease of movement.
Weather
Aruba is known for its warm and sunny weather, so it’s important to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen while playing pickleball. Also, keep in mind that the court surface can be slippery when wet, so be cautious if it’s raining or has recently rained.
Rules
The rules of pickleball are similar to those of tennis, with some minor differences. For instance, the serve must be made underhand and the ball must bounce once before it can be hit by the opposing team.
Tips for Playing Pickleball in Aruba
Here are some tips to make the most out of your pickleball experience in Aruba.
Reserve in Advance
To avoid disappointment, it’s best to reserve your pickleball court in advance, especially during peak season.
Play with a Partner
Pickleball is more fun when played with a partner, so try to find someone to play with or join a local pickleball group.
Take Breaks
Since the weather in Aruba can be hot and humid, it’s important to take breaks and stay hydrated while playing pickleball.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Aruba offers several pickleball courts for visitors to enjoy during their stay. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, there’s a court for everyone. Just remember to reserve your court in advance, check with the facility regarding equipment, wear comfortable attire, and stay hydrated while playing.
FAQs
Is pickleball available in Aruba?
Yes, there are several pickleball courts in Aruba.
Where can I play pickleball in Aruba?
You can play pickleball at the Aruba Beach Club & Casa del Mar Resorts, the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba, Centro Deportivo Betico Croes (Sporthal), and Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club.
Do I need to bring my own equipment to play pickleball in Aruba?
Most of the pickleball courts in Aruba provide paddles and balls for players to use. However, it’s always best to check with the facility beforehand to see if you need to bring your own equipment.
What are the rules for playing pickleball in Aruba?
The rules of pickleball in Aruba are similar to those of tennis, with some minor differences. For instance, the serve must be made underhand and the ball must bounce once before it can be hit by the opposing team.
Can I play pickleball at any time in Aruba?
The court hours vary depending on the facility, so it’s best to check with the facility beforehand regarding their court hours.
References:
- [1] Aruba Beach Club Resort. (n.d.). Pickleball Court – Aruba Beach Club Resort. Retrieved from https://arubabeachresort.com/pickleball-court-aruba-beach-club-resort/
- [2] TripAdvisor. (2018, January 29). Pickle Ball Anyone? – Aruba Forum. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g147247-i144-k11143199-Pickle_Ball_Anyone-Aruba.html
- [3] Places2Play. (n.d.). Centro Deportivo Betico Croes (Sporthal). Retrieved from https://www.places2play.org/place/46-aruba-cruz-abw
- [4] Private Islands Inc. (n.d.). Pickleball at Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club. Retrieved from https://privateislandsblog.com/pickleball-at-marriotts-aruba-surf-club/
- [5] Reddit. (2021, October 5). Pickleball in Aruba Nov 4-11, 2021. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Aruba/comments/qkde4l/pickleball_in_aruba_nov_411_2021/
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