Get on the Court: Tennis and Pickleball in Walton County

Walton County is an ideal destination for the active vacationer — especially if you’ve got a great backswing. So grab your racket or paddle as we dive into the area’s premier tennis and pickleball spots!

Check out the tennis and pickleball classes at WaterColor Tennis. Managed by Matchpoint Resorts, this popular facility is nestled in the heart of the charming WaterColor beach neighborhood. With five Har-Tru clay tennis courts and two hard-surface pickleball courts, there’s always room for a little friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you can get moving with the help of on-site pro instructors. Simply call the pro shop at (850) 400-3696 to request private or group lessons.

With tennis and pickleball classes for the whole family, Seaside Swim & Tennis Club is a club that embraces players of all levels. If you’re just getting started, check out the Tennis Eye Opener Clinics and the beginner-friendly Intro to Pickleball classes. And if you’re already a wizard with the racket, ramp up your gameplay with Tennis Round Robins. No matter your expertise, there’s a class for everyone. Courts are open for play daily from 8 a.m. till dusk. Call (850) 231-2214 to reserve courts, book lessons or sign up for clinics and round robins.

Seaside Swim & Tennis Club

Rosemary Beach Racquet Club is a tennis lover’s utopia. Open to the public, this racket paradise ensures that locals and guests alike can get in on the action. Complete with eight expertly maintained green clay courts and a viewing deck for observation, this club is fun for the whole family. And if you’re hankering for a little after-dinner doubles, Rosemary Beach is the place to be! Four of the eight courts are furnished with new LED lights, and play is permitted until 9 p.m. For reservations or more information, contact them at (850) 278-2061 or tennis@rosemarybeach.com.

If you’re looking for activities for all ages, the Tennis Club of Sandestin is a must-visit. With a dozen world-class HydroGrid clay and three hard tennis courts to choose from, it’s no wonder this club’s Junior Tennis program is so highly ranked. They also have six pickleball courts, regular round robin tournaments and a partner matching service, so there’s fun to be had for everyone – especially the ladies! The club hosts regular Ladies Team Challenge weekends, featuring at least six teams in the event for round robin-style matches. To book a court or learn more, call (850) 267-7060.

Tennis Club of Sandestin

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is yet another premier tennis destination. The complex and clubhouse consist of twelve Rubico courts, one of which is a small stadium perfectly suited for tournaments. Ten of the courts have lights, so you can get your swing on no matter the time of day! Check in with the tennis desk for more info on weekly clinics and drill sessions. And stay social with regular round robins and Play with the Pro clinics!

TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort

South Walton is also home to many public recreation facilities, such as the South Walton Sports Complex. It’s perfect for tennis and pickleball (with designated courts for both), but the complex also offers many other great perks like baseball fields, a sand volleyball court, playground areas and greenspaces. Whether you’re a local or a tourist with some time to kill, be sure to check out their tennis and pickleball courts!

There are also ample opportunities for serving and volleying just beyond the Choctawhatchee Bay. After you’re finished exploring the pristine natural beauty of Freeport, stop by the Freeport Regional Sports Complex for a quick afternoon match. The sprawling 60-acre park features three tennis courts, five baseball fields, two basketball courts, two full-size soccer fields, an 18-hole disc golf course and so much more.

Freeport Regional Sports Complex

You also can’t miss the DeFuniak Springs Tennis Courts! Located at Clay Street and Plateau Avenue, this double tennis court is perfect for kids of all ages. With a merry-go-round, swings and a picnic table, it’s the perfect destination for a night of grilling and family fun.

If you’re looking for a bespoke sporting experience, book a private Pickleball with Mac lesson! Pickleball pro Mac Moody enjoys helping others learn the sport and improve their game with a focus on technique, strategy and mental toughness. She teaches at the South Walton Sports Complex in Santa Rosa Beach but is also available to travel to your location, condo or home pickleball courts. Contact her via email at mac@pickleballwithmac.com and join in on the fun!