Melbourne’s Pickleball Craze: Pickleball, a fast-growing sport that mixes elements of tennis, table tennis, squash, and badminton, is now rising in Melbourne. From social clubs to coaching sessions and wellness add-ons, the city is full of spots to play. Whether a first-timer or a seasoned player, Melbourne has options across suburbs and skill levels.
Originally from the United States and dating back to the 1960s, pickleball has gained huge popularity in Australia. It’s known for being a fun, social, and easy-to-learn sport.
In 2025, it has become part of the city’s fitness culture. The first AO Pickleball Slam was held at the Australian Open. Brands like Humpday and Stylerunner have joined the scene with pickleball-themed events and merch. Now, players in Melbourne can find a range of indoor and outdoor courts with modern facilities, coaching, and even themed social nights.
The Jar – South Melbourne
Located at 29 White Street, South Melbourne, The Jar is the first space in Australia built just for pickleball. It has four indoor courts and runs activities every day. Players can join beginner coaching, kids’ classes, or ladies-only Thursday sessions.
One event is even called Pickle & Prosecco, where social play meets drinks. It also hosts the National Pickleball League, where people can watch expert players and major tournaments.
PicklePlay – Bentleigh East
PicklePlay at 1 South Drive, Bentleigh East is the largest indoor pickleball venue in Melbourne. It’s a family-run space with many courts, making it great for both newbies and skilled players.
Extras include two infrared saunas, a cold plunge pool, massage services, a cinema room, poker space, and coffee drinks. There’s even a BBQ zone for parties and a mascot named Pickles, a fake but fun dog used for selfies.
Swing & Serve – Bundoora
Swing & Serve at 906 Plenty Road, Bundoora offers top-notch courts that can be rented for $45 if you’re not a member. There’s also a membership plan for discounted rates. After your session, you can relax in the beer garden.
The venue plans to start hosting pickleball competitions soon. Other fun options include mini golf and a golf simulator.
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Pickleball Palace – Pascoe Vale
Pickleball Palace at 2 Attercliffe Avenue, Pascoe Vale is open all day and night with five indoor courts. It’s close to Brunswick and offers intro classes, social play, and ball machine hire.
There’s also a SportsWell Revival Centre on site with plunge pools, a sauna, spa, compression boots, and reformer pilates. It’s perfect for relaxing after a game.
Elsternwick Park Tennis Centre – Brighton
At 464 St Kilda Street, Brighton, Elsternwick Park Tennis Centre offers beginner coaching, including a one-hour class to learn the basics. It’s also a fun date idea.
More experienced players can join Cardio Pickleball classes, which come with energetic music. There are regular social nights for intermediate and advanced players on the floodlit courts.
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Clifton Hill Tennis Club – Clifton Hill
Located at 2 Hoddle Street, Clifton Hill, this club offers two-hour social pickleball sessions, perfect as a healthy Friday night or Sunday activity. All skill levels are welcome.
Beginner sessions and drill classes are also available. Non-members pay $15 for social play plus $5 to hire a paddle. Registration is online.
Level Up Pickleball – Wantirna South
Level Up Pickleball at Westfield Knox Shopping Centre opens every night for different skill levels. Saturday is open to all players. There’s a Tuesday night for women and Saturday morning intro sessions for beginners. Coaching is available from professional player and coach Daniel Kouznetsov.
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Civic Reserve Recreation Centre – Mornington
Mornington Peninsula’s Civic Reserve Recreation Centre at 350 Dunns Road runs social pickleball sessions on selected nights. It’s a fun add-on for a weekend trip to the coast. Check their website and Facebook for session times. Players can also book courts with their own group.
Why It Matters
Pickleball’s rise in Melbourne shows how people are choosing fun, social, and accessible sports. These new venues and programs help create a welcoming space for all ages. As more events and clubs open, the sport could become even more popular across Australia.
News in Brief: Melbourne’s Pickleball Craze
Pickleball is rising in Melbourne in 2025. From South Melbourne to Mornington, venues now offer indoor pickleball courts, coaching, and social games for all skill levels. Popular spots include The Jar, PicklePlay, and Level Up Pickleball. It’s now a key part of Melbourne’s social and fitness scene.
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