Looking for a Place to Play Pickleball? We Found A Bunch of Spots in NJ

You’ve probably heard of pickleball. What your kids may know as a routine gym activity has exploded in popularity throughout NJ. This paddle sport (oddly named after a food, though legend has it pickleball was named after a pup named Pickles who loved to chase his ball around Bainbridge Island in Washington) combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong—and will have you working up a sweat in no time.

Don’t stress if you’ve never played. Pickleball embraces newcomers and those of all skill levels. It’s a lot gentler on the body and knees than tennis, but it can get pretty fast-paced for experienced players. The USAPA Pickleball Association explains the game as a fun, easy-to-learn paddle sport that can be played indoors or outdoors. The rules are easy to pick up and you can check out the player handbook here.

Here are the basics:

The game is played with either singles or doubles.
It requires a special pickleball paddle and plastic ball with holes.
Attire is usually anything comfortable and sporty.
It’s played on a badminton-size court, which is a bit shorter than a tennis court.

According to a report from USA Pickleball, New Jersey has 951 total courts, 396 of which are indoors. Samrat “Sam” Sood is looking to add to that through a franchising deal with Pickleball Kingdom. There are 20 more indoor locations on the horizon, but the locations have not yet been announced.

Here’s where else you can play around the state:

Anchor Golf Center

21 New Jersey 10, Whippany
973-887-0898

Angela Hibbard Park

600 Drum Point Rd., Brick
732-262-1044

Avalon Community Hall

3001 Avalon Ave., Avalon
609-967‑3066

Beach Haven

Nelson and Bay Ave., Beach Haven
609-492-0111

Brookside Racquet & Swim Club

480 Brookside Ave., Allendale
201-825-2665

Brigantine Community Center