Best Place For Pickleball In Destin, Florida: Hidden Dunes Beach Resort

Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort has always offered an excellent tennis program, but now Hidden Dunes is quickly becoming known as the best place in the Destin area for pickleball. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and quickly becoming many family’s new favorite tradition. At Hidden Dunes, we celebrate timeless traditions and we’re excited to be a part of our residents’ and guests’ new favorite pastime. We’re excited to share what’s new at Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center and answer some of our most frequently asked questions:

What’s new at Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center?

To keep up with the demand for quality pickleball courts in the Destin area, Hidden Dunes Tennis Center has altered our court setup from 3 soft court pickleball courts to 2 soft courts and 3 brand new asphalt pickleball courts. The asphalt courts are extremely popular among players of all skill levels. Soft clay courts are popular with some players, due to being easier on players’ joints and providing a lower bounce height on the ball. Regardless of your preferred court, Hidden Dunes has a court for your group. In addition, plans call for a gathering spot with 8 Adirondack chairs within a shaded area for players to socialize and rest between matches.

Why pick Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center over other courts in the area? 

Whether you are a beach lover, tennis enthusiast or a pickleball addict, Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort has something for you. While all courts in the area have courts and game instruction, Hidden Dunes Tennis Center sets itself apart with its family-friendly tennis and pickleball facility. Rhett and his wife, Amy, have brought a culture of family to the center with each of their 5 children possessing a passion for tennis and racquet sports. Clinics cater to both expert players as well as beginners with lots of family and youth clinics offered, especially during peak vacation seasons. In addition, Hidden Dunes Resort is ranked among the Top 50 Tennis Resorts and among Top 12 Pickleball Camps by Tennis Resorts Online. Last but not least, families who stay at Hidden Dunes Resort enjoy access to all the resort amenities, including community pools, hot tubs, grilling stations, lush paths, basketball court, horseshoe pits, cornhole boards, playground and seasonal beach service through White Diamond.

What tournaments and upcoming events are planned?

Hidden Dunes’ first pickleball tournament will be held October 7 and 8, 2023! The tournament will have three mens divisions and three womens divisions with six teams per division. Divisions will be based on a 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0 skill-level determined by Rhett Russell with the goal of matching like-level players to heighten the competition. Each day will consist of 5 matches, each to 15 points. Once each game concludes, teams will rotate round-robin style. The goal of the round-robin tournament is to give players as little waiting time and as much court time as possible. To register for the tournament, call the Pro Shop at 850-269-2590.  

On October 17th, the 1st Annual HD Women's Owner / Guest Tennis & Pickleball Mixer will consist of 20 tennis players, 20 pickleball players, and 10 players who will do both. The day will start with a continental breakfast, with play following. The day will conclude with a luncheon. Expect music, prizes for winners, and a day of fun. The goal of the event is to raise money for Path of Grace. Be sure to bring racquets and paddles, and wear pink to match the theme of the event. For questions or to sign up, call the Pro Shop at 850-269-2590.

Do you offer group and private instruction?

Yes. Hidden Dunes Tennis Center offers seasonal clinics, including daily drop-in tennis clinics (8:30 – 10 a.m.) daily (except Sunday), and daily open play pickleball (9 – 11 a.m.) daily (except Sundays) for $5.  In addition, Rhett is a USPTA Certified Elite Pro with 21 years of tennis experience and offers personal training, clinics, and the recent addition of pro-assisted court time from 3-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For only $10, anyone can enjoy two hours of court time with helpful instruction from Russell. For players new to the game or looking to get better, this is a great opportunity to improve your skills.

How do you make a reservation at Hidden Dunes Resorts?

To book court time or a lesson at Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center, simply call the Pro  Shop at 850-269-2590. To book a stay in a Hidden Dunes vacation rental condo, villa or cottage, visit the Hidden Dunes Rentals online or call a vacation specialist directly at 1-800-225-7652 to assist with your reservation.

See you @ the beach!

Published on Tuesday, August 1, 2023