Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in America, is making significant waves in Caribbean resorts, reflecting a trend that blends leisure, fitness, and social engagement in a unique way. This shift is notably seen in how resorts are adapting their amenities to cater to the burgeoning interest in pickleball.
Rapid Growth and Adoption
An estimated 36.5 million Americans played pickleball between August 2021 and August 2022, illustrating a staggering growth of 39.3 percent according to the 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report. This surge in popularity is mirrored in the Caribbean, where resorts are increasingly including pickleball courts in their amenities. Notably, Nevis, a Caribbean island, has recently joined this trend, adding pickleball facilities to attract more visitors.
Resort-Specific Developments
Several top resorts are incorporating pickleball into their offerings. For instance, Los Establos Boutique Resort in Panama, a premier all-inclusive destination, has recently added pickleball courts. Blue Diamond Resorts has integrated pickleball into its innovative fitness programs, Royalton FIT and PUMPED, following its successful launch in Cancun. This initiative will be extended across its Caribbean properties. Similarly, Sandals Resorts, known for their all-inclusive packages, offers pickleball in various locations, including The Bahamas, Grenada, and Jamaica.
A Shift in Paddle Sports
Traditionally, tennis has dominated paddle sports in the Caribbean, with prestigious tennis academies and beach tennis being popular. However, there’s a growing trend of resorts adding or converting tennis courts to accommodate pickleball, reflecting the sport’s rising popularity. Some resorts are even making their existing courts dual-use for both tennis and pickleball.
Tailored Pickleball Experiences
Pineapple Beach Club in Antigua, part of Elite Island Resorts, is a notable example of a resort embracing pickleball. It offers an impressive setup with six courts designed by the renowned Agile Courts firm. This indicates a dedicated approach to providing high-quality pickleball experiences for guests.
Positive Guest Response
The response to the introduction of pickleball in resorts has been overwhelmingly positive. Guests are showing a keen interest in participating in pickleball activities, with resorts like Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun reporting high satisfaction rates among guests. This enthusiasm is expected to be mirrored in other Caribbean destinations like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, and Grenada. Resorts are ensuring guests have all the necessary equipment and offer sessions and classes by appointment, making it a comprehensive part of the all-inclusive experience.
Pickleball’s integration into Caribbean resorts signifies a significant shift in leisure trends, blending athletic activity with vacation relaxation. Its rising popularity is a testament to the sport’s appeal and the evolving preferences of vacationers seeking dynamic and engaging experiences during their stays.
