Florida Floating Pickleball Court Experience: Florida’s Sports Coast has introduced the world’s first regulation-size modular floating pickleball court at Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, about 30 miles north of Tampa. Called Pickleball Bana, the court was designed by AquaBanas and installed in June. It will remain open through September 3 for Labor Day weekend.
A Unique Water Experience
David Heaton, vice president of operations for Metro Lagoons, said,
“We’re always looking to create unique and fun experiences for our guests. When we had the opportunity to take a unique spin on what already is such a fun and enjoyable sport, we jumped at the chance.”
At first, there was some doubt about whether a floating court would work.
“At first we were like, ‘Floating on the water, how’s that going to work?'”. “I didn’t see how the physics would work, or the ball bouncing appropriately.”(David Heaton)
How the Court Works
Despite floating on water, Pickleball Bana offers a stable surface. A netted wall surrounds the open-air court to keep balls and players from falling into the lagoon. The setup also includes shaded seating and viewing platforms. Heaton credited AquaBanas for building
“a fun and exciting product that our guests are loving.”
Players have included both
“hardcore pickleballers who probably play several times a week, maybe affiliated with local clubs,”
and families trying the game for fun. The 45-minute sessions cost $10 per group of up to eight, with lagoon entry tickets sold separately.
More Than Just Pickleball
Mirada Lagoon is the largest man-made lagoon in the U.S., covering more than 15 acres and holding 33 million gallons of water. Guests can also enjoy a water obstacle course, water slide, kayaks, paddleboards, and a beach.
Why It Matters
The floating pickleball court has proven more popular than expected. Heaton said,
“I think both the AquaBana team and us have been pleasantly surprised. They did a great job engineering this unique product and creating a true pickleball experience guests would expect when they’re playing the sport.”
While the current run ends in September, there is interest in making it a permanent attraction.
News in Brief: Florida Floating Pickleball Court Experience
Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, Florida, has debuted the world’s first regulation-size floating pickleball court, Pickleball Bana, designed by AquaBanas. Open through September 3, it offers 45-minute sessions for $10 per group, plus lagoon admission. The attraction has drawn both serious players and families looking for a unique experience.
ALSO READ: Bad Axe Unveils Four New Pickleball Courts, Sparking Local Sports Revival