When life gives you lemons, trade them for pickles and play pickleball! Welcome to the dill-lightful world of pickleball, a sport that's taking the Bay Area by storm. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a new way to stay active, pickleball offers a fantastic blend of fun and fitness. In this guide, we'll walk you through the basics of getting started, from the gear you'll need to the rules of the game, and even where to find vibrant pickleball communities in the SF Bay Area.

Court and Equipment

Court Dimensions

Pickleball is played on a rectangular court with dimensions similar to a badminton court. The official court size is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long for doubles play (slightly smaller for singles).

Net

The net is hung at 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.

Pickleball Paddle

Players use paddles made of various materials, including wood, composite, or graphite. Choose a paddle that suits your playing style and skill level. Entry-level composite paddles are great for beginners, while more advanced players might prefer graphite or fiberglass options.

Pickleball

The name of the game! The pickleball itself is a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball but slightly smaller. Opt for indoor or outdoor balls based on where you plan to play most often.

Comfortable Footwear

Given the lateral movement involved in pickleball, comfortable and supportive athletic shoes are a must. Look for shoes with good grip to prevent slipping on the court. There are pickleball-specific shoes, but tennis shoes or even basketball shoes will work great.
 

Gameplay

Starting the Game

• The game begins with a serve, which must be made underhand and diagonally across the court.
• The serve must clear the non-volley zone (NVZ) and land in the opposite diagonal court.
• The receiving team must let the serve bounce before returning it.

Scoring

• Only the serving team can score points.
• A point is scored when the receiving team faults.
• Games are usually played to 11 or 21 points, and a match is often best out of three games.

Faults

• Common faults include foot faults during the serve, failing to let the ball bounce in the NVZ, and volleying from the NVZ.
• Double hits (hitting the ball twice in a row without it touching the opponent's paddle or another part of their body) are also considered faults.

Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)

• The NVZ, often referred to as the kitchen, is the area within seven feet on either side of the net.
• Players are not allowed to volley (hit the ball in the air without letting it bounce) while standing inside the NVZ.

Double Bounce Rule

• During the serve and return of serve, each team must let the ball bounce once before volleying.
• After the initial two bounces, players can volley the ball in the air.

Switching Sides

• Players switch sides with their opponents after each game and when the total points reach a multiple of 6.

Winning the Game

• The first team to reach 11 or 21 points (as decided before the game) and leading by at least two points wins the game.
• A match is won by the team that wins the best two out of three games.
   

Where to Play (an extremely non-exhaustive list)

The best place to play, in our extremely not-prejudiced opinion? At your local Sports Basement! We have pickleball courts at our Redwood City, San Ramon and Orange County stores, and we host regular pickleball clinics at those stores as well! Check our events calendar for upcoming clinics.
 

Public Parks

• Golden Gate Park, San Francisco: This iconic park features pickleball courts that are open to the public. Check the park's schedule for designated pickleball times.
• Fremont Central Park, Fremont: A popular spot for outdoor activities, Fremont Central Park has dedicated pickleball courts where enthusiasts gather for friendly matches.
• Cuesta Park, Mountain View: Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Cuesta Park boasts well-maintained pickleball courts, making it a favorite among locals.
  

Recreation Centers

• Alameda Point Gym, Alameda: The Alameda Point Gym offers indoor pickleball courts, making it an ideal option for year-round play. Check their schedule for open play sessions.
• Red Morton Community Center, Redwood City: This community center provides indoor pickleball courts and hosts regular events and tournaments. Membership or drop-in options are available.
  

Membership Clubs

• The Peninsula Golf and Country Club, San Mateo: This exclusive club not only offers golf but also has pickleball facilities. Membership provides access to these top-notch courts along with other amenities.
• Silver Creek Valley Country Club, San Jose: A prestigious country club with a range of sports facilities, including pickleball courts. Membership grants you access to this luxurious setting for your pickleball enjoyment.
  

Pickleball Meetup Groups

• SF Bay Area Pickleball Meetup: Join this meetup group to connect with pickleball enthusiasts across the Bay Area. They organize events at various locations, providing a great opportunity to meet new players.
• East Bay Pickleball Meetup, Oakland: This meetup group focuses on the East Bay area and regularly hosts games at different parks and facilities. It's a fantastic way to discover new places to play and make new friends.
   

Remember to check with each location for their specific schedule, reservation requirements, and any membership fees. Pickleball communities are generally welcoming, so don't hesitate to reach out and join in the fun!
 

As you embark on your pickleball journey in the SF Bay Area, remember that the key is to relish the light-hearted fun and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with this exciting sport. The Bay Area offers a vibrant and inclusive pickleball community waiting to welcome you with open arms. So grab your paddle, hit the court, and let the games begin!