Where to Play Tennis

Parent Q&A

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  • My kid is very interested in playing tennis, can actually hit a ball reasonably well sometimes, and I'd love to take him out on to a court. However, it feels like all the courts around here are always crowded, and I would feel bad taking up a court while someone else was waiting with my kid who would probably remain engaged half the time, and just want to run around the other half. Are there any places within a reasonably close drive from Oakland where I can find a not too crowded place for us to play?

    Alternately, anyone know of group lessons for this age group?

    Thank you!

    You can pay to reserve a court via the City of Oakland Parks & Rec website, and then you don't have to worry about someone kicking you off, or keeping another waiting. It's worth the $, even if your child is only running around, and the price varies somewhat depending on which facility you reserve. City of Oakland (at Davies) and most clubs start group lessons at age 5.

    City of Berkeley has a great class that is ages 4-8 at Live Oak Park. 

Archived Q&A and Reviews


Does indoor tennis exist here?

Dec 2012

Rainy weather doesn't mix well with tennis. Do indoor tennis facilities exist anywhere here? If not, have a favorite spot to take your teen so that he can run free when the weather is crummy? thanks!


I don't know if you want to cross the bridge but there is an indoor tennis facility in SF. Really nice club and there's parking - I played there for years. The indoor fees are not cheap but you'll never get rained out. http://www.sftennis.com/ RK


Pickup Tennis in Berkeley?

Nov 2012

I grew up w/a thriving pick up tennis scene at the public courts. There was always someone to hit with and great cameraderie. Is there anything like this in Berkeley or close to it? Thanks!


There is pick up tennis (I understand) at San Pablo Park.


Place to play tennis, racketball near North Berkeley

Jan. 2003

I'm looking for a place near North Berkeley (Berkeley, Albany, north Oakland, El Cerrito, Kensington) to play tennis or raquetball. I also want to find someone or some people to play with who is a beginner. monica


There is an active tennis club which you can join for a nominal fee through the city of El Cerrito. members get priority using the city's courts as well as the opportunity to play the game with others. I enjoy the courts at the El Cerrito High School. They are well maintained and often available. D.C.


Also recommended: Lakeridge Athletic Club