Whenever I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I always notice how easy it is to stay active and have fun outdoors. The island’s beautiful weather and scenic views make it a great place for tennis lovers like me.
If you want to find the best spots to play tennis on the Big Island, you have some amazing options. Whether you prefer playing by the ocean or at a local park, you can enjoy tennis in beautiful settings.
Royal Kona Resort Tennis Club
I stopped by the Royal Kona Resort Tennis Club early in the morning and saw that the place was already lively. The courts looked great, and the surface felt good under my shoes.
I found a spot to play right away since it wasn’t crowded. The staff greeted me with a smile and answered my questions.
I liked having a pro shop right at the courts for racquet stringing and gear. The club stays open for long hours, which fits my busy schedule.
I enjoyed the breezy, tropical setting while I warmed up. The courts offer a nice view and plenty of shade, making it comfortable even at midday.
Booking online was simple and quick, so planning was easy.
Rating: 4.8 (23 reviews)
Location: 75-5852 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 349-3455
Website: Visit Website
Seaside Tennis Club
I spent a morning at Seaside Tennis Club, and it’s a beautiful place for tennis lovers. The courts sit right by the ocean, so you get a nice breeze and a great view.
All nine tennis courts have a smooth Rebound Ace surface, which made playing here very comfortable. The club also has eight new pickleball courts.
I visited the pro shop, which is stocked with the latest tennis gear and apparel. Renting equipment was easy, and they offer racket stringing.
The staff are friendly and professional. Director of Tennis Craig Pautler and his team run daily clinics, round robin tournaments, and give lessons.
I joined a group lesson and learned a lot from their coaches. After playing, I relaxed on the shaded lanai while enjoying the oceanfront scenery.
The club has clean locker rooms and plenty of space for everyone. The dress code is simple—T-shirts are fine, but no tank tops for men, and tennis shoes are required.
Rating: 4.9 (24 reviews)
Location: 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 882-5420
Website: Visit Website
Holua Racquet and Paddle
When I visited Holua Racquet and Paddle, I noticed how big the place is. There are seven tennis courts and a special stadium court that looks really nice.
They keep the courts in great shape. I joined a friendly tennis match with some club members, and everyone welcomed me no matter my skill level.
Many people played pickleball, and it looked like a fun way to meet new friends. They offer both private and group lessons.
The coaches seemed knowledgeable and worked with players of all ages. You can join clinics and tournaments if you want a bit of competition.
Membership options are flexible, especially if you’re only on the island part of the year. I liked the social events and getting updates by email.
Rating: 4.4 (11 reviews)
Location: 78-7190 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 989-4611
Website: Visit Website
Island Slice Tennis
I had a great time visiting Island Slice Tennis in Kamuela. The courts looked clean, and the staff greeted me with a smile.
I felt welcome right away, even as a walk-in. The daily tennis and pickleball clinics are open to all levels, so I didn’t worry about my skill level.
I joined the adult tennis clinic in the morning, which lasted an hour and kept me active. The pro leading our group was friendly and gave clear tips.
I watched the pickleball clinic and saw that beginners and experienced players had their own times. People seemed to have fun and learn a lot.
The pros—Rudy, Jonny, and Ron—know their stuff and make everyone feel comfortable. Booking was easy, and the whole place has a relaxed, local vibe.
I saw people of all ages enjoying the courts and getting personal coaching if they wanted.
Rating: 4.7 (13 reviews)
Location: 1 N Kaniku Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 887-7532
Website: Visit Website
Kailua Park Tennis Courts
I went to the Kailua Park Tennis Courts and liked the well-kept playing surfaces. The courts looked clean, and the nets were in good shape.
I had plenty of space to practice serves and play with friends. You can use the courts for free, and I saw a good mix of beginners and experienced players.
The area felt friendly, so I felt welcome right away. It was easy to join a game or just hit around.
Parking was simple, and the courts are easy to find in Kailua-Kona. The open setting lets in a refreshing breeze, which helped me stay cool during matches.
It gets a little busy in the afternoons, so I went in the morning when it was less crowded.
Rating: 4.6 (5 reviews)
Location: Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Mohouli Park
When I stopped by Mohouli Park in Hilo, I found a calm and friendly spot for tennis. The tennis courts are outdoors and easy to find, tucked off a main road.
They keep the courts in good shape, with plenty of space for singles and doubles play. I liked that the park has other facilities nearby.
There’s a pavilion, a basketball court, and open sports fields, so the area feels lively. Restrooms are close, making it comfortable to spend a few hours here.
It wasn’t crowded when I visited, so I didn’t have to wait for a court. I chatted with a couple of local players, and they were welcoming.
Mohouli Park feels like a neighborhood place where people know each other and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Rating: 4.1 (85 reviews)
Location: 1052 Kumukoa St, Hilo, HI 96720
Website: Visit Website
Ideta Tennis and Pickleball Hilo
When I stopped by Ideta Tennis and Pickleball in Hilo, I felt a warm and welcoming vibe. The coaches help players of all ages, from little kids to older adults.
I was impressed by how friendly everyone was and how much they care about making tennis fun. I watched group and private lessons for both adults and juniors.
The coaches—Ryan, Nikki, and Melvin—connected well with each player. They have years of experience, college tennis backgrounds, and time competing on the pro circuit.
They offer beginner, intermediate, and high school group lessons, as well as private and semi-private options. I saw people renting courts for pickleball and using the ball machine for extra practice.
The pro shop stocks tennis gear, and they provide stringing and racquet services.
Rating: 5 (4 reviews)
Location: 945 Kukuau St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 938-7133
Website: Visit Website
Kamakana Playground
When I visited Kamakana Playground, I saw that it was a popular spot for families. Children played on the colorful, clean playground, and there was plenty of equipment to keep them entertained.
While the area is mainly designed for younger kids, I noticed open spaces nearby where some teens and adults played informal sports. I didn’t see any tennis courts inside the playground area.
Still, it’s a nice place to stop if you have younger kids and want to visit different parks on the island. The county hosts special programs here in the summer, so the park gets even busier during those months.
The nearby areas are well-kept, and there is usually enough parking. If you need information about park activities, the county’s website has updates.
Rating: 4.8 (363 reviews)
Location: Kamakana Playground
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Mauna Lani Sports & Fitness Club
I visited Mauna Lani Sports & Fitness Club and saw their tennis courts in great shape. The facility feels clean, quiet, and surrounded by palm trees, making it relaxing to play here.
You can easily reserve the courts. The staff greet you with a smile and answer any questions.
Members and residents get different options. The club gives extra perks to property owners nearby, but anyone can book a court.
The area feels safe and welcoming. I appreciate how organized everything is.
Parking is close, and I found a spot right away. After playing, you can use fitness spaces and other amenities if you want to work out more.
I watched some people get tips from an instructor. It’s a good place to improve your tennis skills.
Rating: 4.8 (53 reviews)
Location: 68 Pauoa Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 885-7765
Website: Visit Website
Rutgers Tennis Center
When I arrived at Rutgers Tennis Center, I noticed how open and friendly everyone was. The courts looked well kept, and I saw kids, adults, and families enjoying their time.
I watched a Junior Development lesson for ages 4 to 12, and the kids seemed to have a great time. In the mornings, adults join a cardio tennis class, which is a fun way to start the day.
If you like pickleball, you can join beginner classes or open play times. The atmosphere welcomes everyone, including people new to the sport.
You can easily contact the staff to join a class or check your tennis level. I liked the flexible schedule—if you need a different lesson time, just ask.
The staff help make sure everyone gets a chance to play.
Rating: 4.6 (7 reviews)
Location: 65-1692 Kohala Mountain Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 881-4037
Website: Visit Website
Tips for Enjoying Tennis on the Big Island
A great tennis experience here starts with finding courts you like and planning your visits ahead of time. Weather, popularity, and the view can all affect your match, so I check these details before I play.
Choosing the Right Court Surface
When I look for courts, I see that the Big Island mostly has hard courts at public parks and local recreation centers. These courts are easy to care for, but they can get hot during midday, so I try to play early or late to stay cool.
Resorts like Mauna Kea Resort have beautiful, well-kept courts near the ocean. These courts offer great surfaces and stunning views, making my game more enjoyable.
Some places offer clay or synthetic courts, which feel gentler on my joints. I check with the club or resort first to see what surface they have, so I can choose what’s best for my comfort.
Booking Court Time in Advance
Court time on the Big Island fills up quickly during holidays and weekends. When I want to play at popular spots like Mauna Kea Resort’s tennis courts or the Holua Racquet and Paddle Center, I book early.
Some places let you reserve courts online, which makes it easy to secure a spot before you arrive. Public courts often use a first-come, first-served system.
If I choose public courts, I go early in the morning or at sunset when it’s less busy. Some courts may charge fees or require check-in at a pro shop.
To plan my visit, I use a simple checklist:
- Check court fees and rules
- Confirm reservation policies
- Bring my own racquet and balls
What to Pack for Tennis in Hawaii
When I play tennis on the Big Island, I prepare for the sun and heat. Staying protected and refreshed helps me enjoy every match.
Sun Protection Essentials
Playing tennis outdoors in Hawaii means lots of direct sunlight. I always pack a lightweight hat or visor to protect my face and keep the sun out of my eyes.
UV-blocking sunglasses are a must so I don’t strain my eyes during long matches. For my skin, I use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours.
To protect my arms and shoulders, I sometimes wear a light, long-sleeved shirt made from moisture-wicking fabric. This helps if I’m on the court for a long time.
I keep a few packs of lip balm with SPF in my tennis bag. The sun can dry out my lips, and this helps prevent chapping.
A small towel is great for wiping away sweat and sunscreen from my eyes.
Here’s a quick sun protection checklist:
- Hat or visor
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- SPF lip balm
- Moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirt
- Small towel
Hydration and Snacks
The warm Hawaiian weather makes me sweat a lot while I play tennis. I pay close attention to staying hydrated.
I always carry a reusable water bottle. I refill it whenever I get a chance.
Sometimes, I pack two bottles if I know I’ll play for several hours. Electrolyte drinks or tablets help me replace what I lose through sweat.
I keep a few packets in my bag and mix them in my water during breaks. Sometimes, I choose coconut water if I want something natural and refreshing.
For snacks, I bring options that are lightweight and won’t spoil in my tennis bag. My favorites are granola bars, dried fruit, and packets of nuts.
These snacks give me a quick energy boost between sets without feeling heavy. I also pack some Ziploc bags to store wet clothes or snacks.
Here’s my basic hydration and snack list:
- Reusable water bottle
- Electrolyte tablets or drinks
- Coconut water
- Granola bars
- Dried fruit and nuts
- Ziploc bags for storage
