Pickleball in Playa del Carmen: A Growing Community and Where to Play

Playa del Carmen isn’t just about beaches, tacos, and cenotes anymore — pickleball is quickly becoming a vibrant part of the local sports scene. Thanks to a tight-knit community, accessible courts, and growing support, this paddle sport is thriving in the Riviera Maya.

Here’s a look at how pickleball is taking off in Playa, where you can play, and what to expect.

Why Pickleball Is Catching On Here

Community-Driven Growth: International visitors and long-term residents have helped turn Playa del Carmen into a hub for pickleball. A group of passionate players regularly meets at the Poliforum Sports Complex and is actively promoting the sport.
Giving Back: Beyond sport, the local pickleball group has contributed to the community. According to reports, they’ve donated tens of thousands of pesos to educational initiatives, and there’s interest in creating a youth pickleball academy.
All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned player, there’s room for you. The Playa del Carmen Pickleball Club organizes open play in different tiers: challenge, intermediate, and beginner.

Where to Play: Courts & Clubs

Here are some of the top pickleball spots around Playa del Carmen:

1. Playa del Carmen Pickleball Club – Poliforum Sports Complex

Ubicación: Avenida Benito Juárez at the Poliforum Sports Facility
Google Maps: PDC Pickleball Club Courts
Courts: 5–6 outdoor hard-surface courts, with organized play by level.
Cost: ~100 MXN** per day for open play (per the club / court-listing).
Play Times: According to the club website: 7:45 AM–12:00 PM (April–October), daily in peak season, and more often November–March.
Website: https://www.pdcpickleballclub.com/

2. Heat Padel & Pickleball

Ubicación: Calle 66B Norte, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo. Pickleheads
Google Maps: Heat Padel & Pickleball
Courts: 4 indoor concrete / hard courts, permanent nets and lines.
Amenities: Food & drinks, lighting, locker rooms, trainers, youth programs — full club feel.
Cost / Reservations: Since it’s a dedicated facility, you likely need to reserve — check their site for current rates.
Website: https://www.pickleheads.com/courts/mx/quintana-roo/playa-del-carmen

3. Mayakoba Sports Club

Ubicación: In the Mayakoba resort / community area.
Google Maps: Mayakoba Sports Club Courts
Courts: 3 outdoor dedicated pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets; surfaces are asphalt.
Amenities: Lights, pro-shop, lessons available, restroom, lockers.
Play / Cost: Reservations required per Pickleheads; check Mayakoba Sports Club for membership or guest rates.
Website:

4. Sandos Resorts (Pickleball Courts)

Locations:
- Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
- Sandos Playacar
Announcement: These resorts recently added new, modern pickleball courts. Sandos Resorts+1
Google Maps (example): Sandos Playacar / Caracol area
Who It’s Good For: If you’re staying at Sandos, it’s a great on-site option — resort guests get easy access, and it’s a nice way to play in a more tourist-friendly set-up.

Tips for Playing Pickleball in Playa del Carmen

Bring the Essentials: Paddle, ball, proper shoes, sunscreen, and water.
Be Respectful of Levels: The PDC club organizes by skill — beginner players should ask for court rotation / 4-on-4.
Check With Locals: The community is very welcoming. Join the club’s socials to find open-play times or drop-in sessions.
Be Early / Flexible: Court times can fill up, especially in high season (Nov–Mar).
Consider Lessons: If you’re new, both Mayakoba and Heat provide coaching / lessons.
Participate in Tournaments: The Destination Pickleball organization sometimes hosts tournaments in the area. Destination Pickleball

Why Pickleball Makes Playa Even Better

Social Vibes: Pickleball brings together tourists, long-term expats, and locals — fostering a strong, friendly community.
Accessible Sport: Compared to tennis, pickleball’s smaller courts, simpler gear, and lower impact make it ideal for a wide range of ages.
Growing Infrastructure: With committed players and new courts opened at resorts like Sandos, the sport’s footprint is expanding fast.
Giving Back: The local pickleball club doesn’t just play — they’ve made meaningful donations and are working on youth programs.

Final Thought

If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen and want to blend activity with social connection, pickleball is a fantastic option. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or living here, jump into a game — real players, real fun, real community.

If you like, I can pull together a weekly pickleball schedule (with local groups / events) updated for 2025 — do you want me to do that?

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
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