Pickleball Courts Near San Francisco CA: Top Spots for Bay Area Players

Pickleball is taking San Francisco by storm. This fun and easy-to-learn sport is growing fast, and more people are looking for places to play. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, finding a good court can make all the difference.

San Francisco has lots of options for pickleball players. You can find 22 popular pickleball courts in San Francisco, with both indoor and outdoor choices. Some spots have permanent nets and lines, while others are set up temporarily. No matter where you live in the city, there’s probably a court near you.

1) Golden Gate Park Tennis Complex

The Golden Gate Park Tennis Complex is a great spot for pickleball in San Francisco. It’s now called the Goldman Tennis Center and has gotten a big upgrade.

You’ll find 5 pickleball courts here. They’re part of a bigger facility with 17 tennis courts. The whole place got a $30 million makeover, so it’s pretty nice.

The courts have good lighting, so you can play at night. There’s also a clubhouse if you need a break.

You need to book a court before you play. The prices change based on when you want to play and if you live in San Francisco.

To make a reservation, you can go online or call them. Their phone number is (415) 581-2540.

The Goldman Tennis Center is in a great spot in Golden Gate Park. It’s easy to get to and you can enjoy the park before or after your game.

2) Marinship Park in Sausalito

Looking for a great place to play pickleball near San Francisco? Check out Marinship Park in Sausalito. This pickleball hotspot has four outdoor courts for you to enjoy.

The courts are free to use, so you don’t need to worry about fees. Just grab your gear and head over. Remember to bring your own net, as you’ll need to set it up yourself.

Want to play at night? No problem! The courts have lights, so you can keep the game going after dark. There are also restrooms and water available, making it easy to stay hydrated during your matches.

You’ll find the park at Marinship Way in Sausalito. It’s a short drive from San Francisco, making it a convenient option for city dwellers looking to escape for a game or two.

Keep in mind that the courts are first-come, first-served. If you’re planning a game, you might want to arrive early to snag a spot. Don’t forget to check the park rules before you go to ensure a smooth and enjoyable pickleball experience.

3) Presidio Wall Playground

Presidio Wall Playground is a great spot for pickleball in San Francisco. You’ll find 12 lined mixed-use courts here, making it the main free pickleball facility in the northern part of the city.

The courts are set up on tennis courts, so you’ll need to bring portable nets. Don’t worry if you forgot yours – roll-on nets are available, and there are bagged nets stored on-site.

You can play on 6 primary courts used for drop-in games. When these get full, there are 6 more courts for overflow. This setup means you’re likely to find space to play, even on busy days.

If you prefer to plan ahead, 6 pickleball courts are reservable in one-hour slots. This option lets you secure your playing time in advance.

The playground is located at Pacific Ave. & Spruce St. in the Presidio. You’ll find restrooms and water available, making it comfortable for longer playing sessions.

4) Oakland’s Bushrod Park

Looking for a great spot to play pickleball near San Francisco? Check out Bushrod Park in Oakland. This place is a pickleball paradise with four outdoor courts waiting for you.

The courts at Bushrod Park are free and open to the public. You’ll find them easily from the corner of 59th and Shattuck. The best part? The lines are permanent, so you don’t have to worry about marking the court.

Just remember to bring your own net. The courts are well-lit, making evening games a breeze.

Are you new to pickleball? No worries! Bushrod Park welcomes beginners during “social” play times. You can join in on Sundays and Wednesdays at 2:00 PM, or Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 4:30 to 7:30 PM.

The park offers more than just courts. You’ll find restrooms and water fountains nearby. It’s a great place to improve your skills or enjoy a friendly match.

5) Mill Valley Community Center

Looking for a spot to play pickleball near San Francisco? Check out the Mill Valley Community Center. It’s a great place to enjoy this fun sport.

The center doesn’t have dedicated pickleball courts. But don’t worry! You can still play on the tennis courts. Just bring your own net and equipment.

Mill Valley has several options for pickleball fans. The community center is one of them. It’s a good choice if you’re in the area.

You’ll need to set up the court yourself. This means drawing lines and setting up a portable net. It’s a bit of work, but it’s worth it for a game of pickleball.

Remember to check the center’s schedule. Tennis players might be using the courts too. It’s best to call ahead and make sure you can play.

The Mill Valley Community Center is just one of several places to play pickleball in the area. It’s a nice option if you’re nearby and want a quick game.

Pickleball Court Features

Pickleball courts come in different types and surfaces. You’ll find options that suit your playing style, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

Indoor vs Outdoor Courts

Indoor courts give you a controlled environment. You don’t have to worry about wind or sun. They often have better lighting too. Many San Francisco pickleball locations offer both indoor and outdoor options.

Outdoor courts let you enjoy fresh air and sunshine. They’re great for casual games with friends. But watch out for wind – it can affect your shots.

Indoor courts usually have smoother surfaces. Outdoor ones might be rougher, changing how the ball bounces.

Court Surface Types

The court surface affects your game a lot. Hard courts are common. They give a consistent bounce and are easy to maintain.

Concrete is tough and lasts long. It’s often used in public parks in San Francisco.

Asphalt is another popular choice. It’s cheaper but may crack over time.

Some fancy clubs have cushioned surfaces. These are easier on your joints. They’re great if you play a lot.

Clay courts are rare in pickleball. They’re slower and can be tricky to maintain.

Synthetic surfaces are getting more popular. They offer good traction and are easier on your body.

Planning Your Visit

Getting ready for some pickleball fun in San Francisco? Here’s what you need to know about timing your visit and packing the right gear.

Best Times to Play

Weekday mornings are great for avoiding crowds at San Francisco pickleball courts. Many locals hit the courts before work, from 6-9 AM.

Midday on weekdays is usually less busy. If you’re free then, you might have more court time.

Weekends get packed, especially at popular spots like Parkside Square. Try to arrive early, around 8 AM, to snag a court.

Some courts have set hours for open play. For example, Upper Noe Rec Center offers dedicated pickleball times on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

What to Bring

Pickleball paddle: Bring your own if you have one. Some places like Upper Noe Rec Center lend out paddles.

Balls: Pack a few. Yellow is standard, but any color works.

Water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially on sunny days.

Sunscreen: San Francisco can be surprisingly sunny. Protect your skin.

Athletic shoes: Court shoes or tennis sneakers work best.

Light layers: SF weather can change fast. Bring a light jacket or long-sleeve shirt.

Court etiquette: Bring your best manners. Be ready to rotate in with other players during busy times.