For those who live and breathe pickleball, there’s nothing better than blending your passion for the game with a luxurious, relaxing getaway. That’s why pickleball vacations have exploded in popularity — they combine world-class play, beautiful surroundings, and a strong sense of community. At Pura Vida House, we’re proud to offer an unforgettable pickleball experience in the heart of Costa Rica, with premium courts, breathtaking scenery, and all the “pura vida” you could ever hope for.

One issue that tends to come up when planning a trip like this is the pickleball court vs tennis court debate. Sure, both sports share similarities, but the playing experience is quite different — and that difference matters when choosing your ideal vacation spot.

Let’s explore the key distinctions and why choosing a pickleball vacation with dedicated pickleball courts makes all the difference when you’re looking for the ultimate getaway.

Pickleball Court vs Tennis Court: What’s the Real Difference?

At a glance, it’s easy to see why pickleball and tennis are often compared. Both involve rackets (or paddles), a net, and a rectangular court. However, the difference between pickleball and tennis courts goes a little deeper than size or appearance.

Court Size:
Pickleball courts are significantly smaller than tennis courts — about one-fourth the size, to be exact. A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, while a tennis court is 36 feet wide and 78 feet long. This more compact layout means fast-paced rallies, quicker reflexes, and a more social style of play.

Net Height:
Tennis nets are slightly higher in the middle (36 inches) compared to pickleball nets (34 inches at the center). This subtle difference encourages longer volleys and more strategic placement in pickleball.

Surface Use:
Some facilities offer multi-use courts that allow both tennis and pickleball play, but playing pickleball on a tennis court, even with portable nets and temporary lines, can feel awkward. The dimensions aren’t ideal, and the feel of the game changes. A dedicated pickleball court creates the right flow, spacing, and game-speed players love.

Pace and Movement:
Because of the smaller court size, pickleball involves less running across large distances compared to tennis. Instead, it demands quick lateral movement, sharp reflexes, and strategic soft play at the net — especially when battling in the ever-important “kitchen” zone.

These differences may seem minor, but if you’re planning a pickleball vacation, they can seriously impact your experience.

Why Dedicated Courts Matter for Your Pickleball Vacation

When it comes to pickleball vacations, not all resorts or travel experiences are created equal. Many destinations advertise “pickleball available,” only for guests to discover they’re playing on a tennis court with temporary lines and a roll-away net.

While makeshift setups work in a pinch, true pickleball lovers know there’s no substitute for a real pickleball court!

At Pura Vida House, we offer six championship-style pickleball courts designed specifically for pickleball. This means:

  • Correct Surface Texture: Proper courts are surfaced to optimize ball bounce and player movement.
  • Accurate Court Dimensions: No confusing tennis lines underfoot — just pure, clean pickleball.
  • Superior Lighting: For those who want to play early morning or cool evening games, our courts are lit for prime visibility.
  • Social and Competitive Vibe: Dedicated courts create the ideal environment for friendly matches, round robins, clinics, and even spontaneous tournaments.

There’s just something about stepping onto a real pickleball court — the sound of the paddle meeting the ball, the quick footwork, the shared laughs — that makes the whole experience feel authentic and unforgettable.

The Unique Charm of Pickleball Vacations at Pura Vida House

Imagine waking up to the sound of tropical birds, sipping fresh Costa Rican coffee on your private patio, then heading out for a morning of pickleball under the warm sun and swaying palm trees.

Discover our 7-night pickleball vacation package in Costa Rica.

At Pura Vida House, a premier pickleball destination in Costa Rica, we’ve designed every detail to give guests an unparalleled experience:

  • Unlimited Pickleball: Play as much (or as little) as you like.
  • World-Class Instruction: Clinics and coaching sessions are available to help sharpen your skills.
  • All-Inclusive Luxury: Gourmet meals, spa services, adventure tours, and a personalized concierge service make it easy to relax between matches.
  • Community Feel: Whether you’re traveling with friends or meeting new ones here, the camaraderie on and off the courts makes every moment even better.

Many guests tell us they leave with stronger friendships, better shots, and memories that last a lifetime.

Pickleball vs Tennis: Why Pickleball Keeps Winning Hearts

Both sports offer great exercise, fun competition, and opportunities for social connection. But when comparing the difference between pickleball and tennis, there’s a reason why more travelers are choosing pickleball for their active vacations.

Pickleball is:

  • Easier on the Body: Less court to cover means less strain on the knees, hips, and shoulders.
  • Faster to Learn: You don’t need years of lessons to have fun. Beginners can rally within minutes, and more experienced players can constantly sharpen new skills.
  • Highly Social: Smaller courts mean players are always close enough to chat, laugh, and celebrate great points together.
  • Addictively Fun: The quick points, variety of shots, and lively pace create a sense of joy and energy that’s hard to match.

Tennis remains a classic, but pickleball’s welcoming nature makes it the perfect centerpiece for a vacation where play, relaxation, and connection are the goals.

Plan Your Dream Pickleball Vacation at Pura Vida House

Whether you’re an avid pickleball player looking to level up your game or simply craving a rejuvenating getaway that includes plenty of time on the court, Pura Vida House will give you the pickleball vacation you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Located in the prestigious Hacienda Pinilla resort community, we offer luxury accommodations, six dedicated pickleball courts, incredible excursions, and the personalized service that transforms a good trip into an extraordinary one.

When it comes to the pickleball court vs tennis court debate, true fans know that the right court makes all the difference. And here, we don’t just offer the right court — we offer the perfect environment to celebrate your love of the game and the “pura vida” way of life.

Need more reasons to stay with us? Book your summer stay at Pura Vida House (May – Sept 2025) for 7 nights and get 20% off!

Ready to play under the Costa Rican sun? Contact us today to start planning your dream pickleball vacation by calling (614) 600-1904 or email us at info@thepuravidahouse.com.

Blog by: Jennifer LaCharite – Costa Consultants, International