Pickleball in Virginia Beach: What Every New Player Needs to Know and Where to Play
- maurabain757
- Jun 12
- 4 min read
Pickleball in Virginia Beach: What Every New Player Needs to Know and Where to Play
Dr. Maura Bain, Realtor®, is a Coastal Virginia and North Carolina real estate expert helping buyers, sellers, military families, and investors navigate the Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and Outer Banks markets.
If you’ve spent any time around Virginia Beach lately, you’ve probably noticed one thing.
Pickleball is everywhere.
What started as a backyard game has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in America. It’s easy to learn, affordable to play, and a great way to meet people while staying active.
Whether you’re moving to Virginia Beach, recently retired, stationed here with the military, or simply looking for a fun new hobby, pickleball is a great place to start.
As someone who loves the active outdoor lifestyle Coastal Virginia offers, I often hear newcomers ask where they can play and how to get started.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton.
Players use a solid paddle and a lightweight plastic ball on a court that’s smaller than a tennis court.
Most games are played as doubles, but singles play is common too.
One reason pickleball has exploded in popularity is because beginners can learn the basics quickly.
You don’t need years of experience to have fun.
Why Is Pickleball So Popular?
A few reasons:
Easy to learn
Great exercise
Social atmosphere
Suitable for all ages
Less physically demanding than tennis
Affordable equipment
Many players tell me they started because a friend invited them and quickly became hooked.
What Equipment Do You Need?
The good news is you don’t need much.
Beginner Equipment List
Pickleball paddle
Indoor or outdoor pickleball balls
Athletic shoes with good support
Comfortable athletic clothing
Water bottle
Many local recreation centers even provide equipment for beginners.
Basic Rules Every New Player Should Know
The Serve-
The serve must be hit underhand and below waist level.
The Double Bounce Rule-
After the serve, each side must allow the ball to bounce once before volleying.
The Kitchen-
The non-volley zone, commonly called “the kitchen,” is the seven-foot area near the net.
You cannot volley while standing in this zone.
Scoring-
Games are typically played to 11 points and must be won by at least two points.
Don’t worry if this sounds confusing because it is.
After a game or two, it starts to make sense.
Where Can You Play Pickleball in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach offers numerous places for beginners and experienced players.
Princess Anne Recreation Center-
Popular indoor courts with organized play opportunities.
Kempsville Recreation Center-
Offers indoor courts and beginner-friendly programs.
Great Neck Recreation Center-
A favorite location for many local players.
Bayside Recreation Center-
Another great option with active pickleball participation. Basically all the Rec centers.
Outdoor Community Courts-
Many parks and neighborhood facilities throughout Virginia Beach now feature dedicated pickleball courts or converted tennis courts. Ex: Owls Creek, Marshview Park, Bayville Farms to name a few.
Check local recreation schedules for open play times and beginner clinics.
What Makes Pickleball Great for New Residents?
One thing I hear repeatedly from people relocating to Virginia Beach is:
“We want to meet people.”
Pickleball is one of the easiest ways to do that.
Unlike many sports, players often rotate in and out of games, making it easy to meet new friends and playing partners.
Military families especially appreciate how welcoming most pickleball groups are to newcomers.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Trying to Hit Every Ball Hard-
Power isn’t everything.
Placement often wins points.
Standing Too Far Back-
New players often stay near the baseline.
As you improve, you’ll learn why many players move toward the kitchen line.
Ignoring Footwork-
Good movement makes a huge difference.
Buying Expensive Equipment Too Soon-
Start simple.
You can always upgrade your paddle later.
Frequently Asked Questions
*Is pickleball hard to learn?
No. Most people can learn the basics in a single afternoon.
*What age is pickleball for?
Everyone. You’ll see players from teenagers to retirees.
*How much does it cost to start?
Many beginners can get started for less than the cost of a dinner out.
*Can I play if I’m not athletic?
Absolutely. That’s one reason pickleball is so popular.
*Is pickleball good exercise?
Yes. It improves balance, coordination, endurance, and overall fitness.
Final Thoughts
One of the things I love about Virginia Beach is the active lifestyle available year-round.
Whether it’s pickleball, golf, kayaking, boating, surfing, biking, or simply enjoying the beach, there are countless ways to stay active and connect with the community.
If you’re considering a move to Virginia Beach and want to learn more about neighborhoods, recreation opportunities, schools, or the local real estate market, I’d be happy to help.
"I grew up here. I live here. I serve here!"
About the Author
Dr. Maura Bain, Realtor® is a Coastal Virginia and North Carolina real estate expert serving buyers, sellers, military families, and investors throughout Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and the Outer Banks.
A longtime Virginia Beach resident and proud military family member, Dr. Bain understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with military relocation.
She specializes in helping clients confidently navigate the real estate market whether they are buying their first home, relocating for military orders, purchasing a vacation property, or investing in coastal real estate.
When she’s not helping clients find the perfect home, Dr. Bain enjoys body boarding, volunteering in the community, and spending time with family.
Dr. Maura Bain, Realtor® BHHS RW Towne Realty
Serving Virginia Beach • Hampton Roads • Outer Banks
Call or Text: 757-418-2139
Website: MauraBainHomes.com
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