Naples • Local Guide

The 5 Best Places to Play Pickleball in Naples, Florida (2026 Ranked List)

Last updated: December 2025

Naples is the "Pickleball Capital of the World," but that title comes with a downside: crowds. If you show up at East Naples Community Park at 9:00 AM in February, you might be waiting 45 minutes for a court. That’s why you need a strategy. This guide ranks the best places to play pickleball in Naples based on vibe, skill level, and wait times, so you can spend more time playing and less time standing in line.

Outdoor pickleball courts in Naples, Florida
With over 100 public courts across the county, finding a game is easy—if you know where to look.

1. East Naples Community Park (The "Mecca")

This is where the magic happens. Home to the US Open Pickleball Championships, this park features over 60 courts. It is a bucket-list destination for any player.

  • Vibe: High energy, competitive, and busy.
  • Best For: Players who want to test themselves against strong competition.
  • Note: During the US Open (April), courts are restricted. Check our US Open Survival Guide for details.

2. Veterans Community Park (The Local's Choice)

Located in North Naples, Veterans is the preferred spot for year-round residents. It has a fantastic social scene in the mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) with a very welcoming group of seniors and 3.5+ players.

  • Vibe: Friendly, organized, and community-focused.
  • Court Count: 14 dedicated courts (plus temporary lines).

3. Pelican Bay Community Park (The New Hotspot)

Currently undergoing a massive expansion to ~20 courts (targeted for 2025/2026 opening), this will soon be the premier facility for North Naples. It’s perfect for players staying near Vanderbilt Beach.

4. Vineyards Community Park

Tucked away from the tourist centers, Vineyards is a hidden gem. It has high-quality courts and is generally less chaotic than East Naples. It’s a great spot for intermediates (3.0–3.5) to get consistent games.

5. Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park

If you are out in the Estates, this massive new park is a game-changer. It features pristine courts and is rapidly building a dedicated player base. It’s ideal for families or groups who want to play together without the pressure of a "paddle stack" system.

New to the area? Don't be intimidated by the paddle stacking system at these parks. If you're unsure how to rotate in, or just want to practice privately first, we can send a coach to help you get comfortable.

Where do the Pros Play?

You will often see pros training at East Naples Community Park, especially in the weeks leading up to the US Open. However, many private communities (like The Player’s Club and Lely Resort) also attract top talent.

Private Lessons: We Come to You

The beauty of Naples is that almost every community has a court. You don't have to fight for a spot at the public parks. We send vetted, background-checked coaches to your HOA, condo, or nearest public court.

Book a Lesson See Pricing

Local Resources

FAQ — Where to Play Pickleball in Naples

Is it free to play at these parks?

Most Collier County parks charge a small annual membership fee or a daily drop-in fee (around $5) for pickleball access. It’s worth it for the maintenance quality.

Do I need to bring my own net?

No. The top 5 parks listed above all have permanent nets. However, if you go to a smaller neighborhood park with dual-use lines, you might need a portable net.