Serving Up Fun: The Ultimate Guide to Pickleball in the Bradenton Area

It’s the fastest growing sport in America, and in the Bradenton Area it’s thriving with courts dotting the map. Here are some of the best facilities to play in the Bradenton Area.

G. T. Bray Recreation Center

It’s an elite facility that extends an open forehand for all to enjoy. Pickleball Magazine honored the 20 public courts at the C.V. Walton Racquet Center as one of the top 25 places to play in the nation. In Florida, it gets even better – the west Bradenton courts boasts a top-four ranking in the state. Fourteen of the 20 courts are covered with large ceiling fans, making it a breeze to play in the hotter summer months. If you can’t beat the heat, go indoors where four courts are available at just $5.00 a day.

Terra Ceia Bay Country Club

Court availability is a huge selling point at Terra Ceia Bay Country Club. There are six courts available between 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The fees are $5 a day to at relatively new location. The pickleball program began May 1^st, 2023 and has classes for beginners and offers private and group lessons.

Bradenton Yacht Club

Who’s up for a night game? The Bradenton Yacht Club is a shining star of a facility which features Glow in the Dark Night matches on its four courts. The neon brights are a sight to see even if you’re just a spectator and not swinging a racquet. 

UMR Sports

UMR Sports also features night play with six, custom championship courts dedicated to pickleball. Check out their “Friday Night Lights” open-play round robin tournaments for a $10 fee.

Lakewood Ranch Park

A favorite destination for pickleball enthusiasts in the East Bradenton Area is Lakewood Ranch Park. With five dedicated pickleball courts, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the game. Experience the sounds of pickleball joy and laughter as you play here!

Lakewood Ranch High School

Lakewood Ranch is an oasis of a community which planned for everything, including plenty of places to play pickleball. Six standout hard and concrete courts await you at Lakewood Ranch High School with open/drop play opportunities in the mornings. While courts can’t be reserved, it’s free to play. There are restrooms and players have access to the lights as the courts close at 10 p.m.