Top 10 Tennis Destinations Around the World (And How to Play There)
A travel guide for tennis lovers who want to hit the world’s most beautiful courts
Introduction: Where Wanderlust Meets the Sweet Spot
For tennis players, travel isn’t just about seeing new places — it’s about feeling a different kind of bounce beneath your feet.
Imagine serving at sunrise over the Mediterranean, rallying on red clay under the Swiss Alps, or practicing drop shots on a Caribbean cliffside.
The world is full of destinations where world-class tennis facilities blend seamlessly with scenery, cuisine, and culture.
Here are 10 must-visit tennis destinations — plus tips on how to actually play there, from booking courts to joining local matches.
🇪🇸 1. Mallorca, Spain – The Island of Rafa and Red Clay
Why Go: Home to the Rafael Nadal Academy, Mallorca combines world-class facilities with Mediterranean charm. The academy’s campus in Manacor features indoor and outdoor clay courts, sports science labs, and luxury accommodations.
How to Play: Book a training week at Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar — packages include coaching, video analysis, and use of fitness centers. Non-pros can join the adult programs or book single sessions via their website.
Off Court: Visit Palma’s Gothic cathedral, cruise the coast of Port d’Andratx, or cycle through the island’s limestone hills.
🇺🇸 2. Indian Wells, California – The Tennis Paradise
Why Go: Dubbed the “fifth Grand Slam,” Indian Wells is tennis heaven — sun-soaked courts framed by desert mountains.
Where to Play: Stay at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden — home of the BNP Paribas Open — which offers public court rentals, clinics, and pro-level practice sessions.
Pro Tip: Time your trip in March to watch the tournament and hit the same courts the pros use the next day.
Off Court: Explore Palm Springs’ mid-century architecture, Joshua Tree National Park, or relax in Coachella Valley spas.
🇨🇭 3. Gstaad, Switzerland – Alpine Tennis & Luxury Retreats
Why Go: Picture-perfect mountain air and pristine clay courts — Gstaad’s charm lies in its intimacy and elite hospitality.
Where to Play: Gstaad Palace Tennis Club and Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks host annual camps with former pros. Courts are open to guests from June to September.
How to Book: Through the hotel concierge or via the official Roy Emerson program site.
Off Court: Hike alpine trails, visit Lake Geneva, or unwind in thermal spas — pure Swiss serenity.
🇮🇹 4. Tuscany, Italy – Play Amid Vineyards and Villas
Why Go: Few places blend tennis and lifestyle like Tuscany — rolling hills, wine estates, and clay courts tucked among olive groves.
Where to Play: Borgo Egnazia Resort and Castelfalfi Golf & Tennis Club feature stunning countryside courts.
Experience: Combine morning lessons with wine tasting or a private chef dinner.
Off Court: Tour Siena, Florence, and medieval villages; explore the Chianti wine route.
🇫🇷 5. Monte Carlo, Monaco – Where Champions Train
Why Go: The Monte-Carlo Country Club, home of the ATP Masters 1000 event, is one of the most scenic clubs on Earth — overlooking the Mediterranean.
How to Play: Non-members can access limited court rentals through hotel packages (check Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort).
Off Court: Stroll the marina, visit the Oceanographic Museum, and enjoy fine dining at Le Louis XV.
Insider Tip: Book far in advance during the Masters tournament; spots fill quickly.
🇺🇸 6. Miami, Florida – Sun, Surf & Hard Courts
Why Go: The Miami Open and year-round sunshine make this one of the top tennis travel cities in the U.S.
Where to Play:
-
Crandon Park Tennis Center on Key Biscayne (former Miami Open site).
-
JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Club in Aventura for resort play.
How to Book: Public courts available via Miami-Dade County’s booking system; resorts offer guest passes.
Off Court: Explore South Beach, Wynwood Walls, or the Art Deco District; enjoy Latin nightlife and coastal dining.
🇬🇧 7. London, England – Tradition Meets Grass Roots
Why Go: Home to Wimbledon and a deep tennis heritage.
Where to Play:
-
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum tour and nearby Wimbledon Park Courts (public).
-
Queens Club London (exclusive, but limited visitor access via guest memberships).
Pro Tip: Plan a “Summer of Grass” — book a trip between June and July to watch tournaments and play on real grass.
Off Court: Afternoon tea at The Ritz, river walks, or theatre in the West End.
🇹🇭 8. Phuket, Thailand – Tropical Courts & Wellness Retreats
Why Go: A paradise for combining tennis, fitness, and relaxation.
Where to Play: Thanyapura Sports & Health Resort, a world-class facility offering coaching programs, altitude training, and yoga.
Packages: Book “Tennis + Wellness” packages that include accommodations, coaching, and spa recovery.
Off Court: Island-hop to Phi Phi, scuba dive in turquoise waters, or indulge in Thai spa therapies.
🇦🇺 9. Melbourne, Australia – The Grand Slam City
Why Go: Melbourne is tennis-mad — the energy around the Australian Open transforms the city each January.
Where to Play: Melbourne Park offers public access to courts used by pros once the Slam ends. Book early through the Tennis Victoria website.
Off Court: Explore Federation Square, Great Ocean Road, and local coffee culture.
Insider Tip: Visit during late January or February to play on freshly resurfaced courts.
🇲🇺 10. Mauritius – Indian Ocean Tennis Paradise
Why Go: White-sand beaches meet professional-grade courts in one of the world’s most scenic resort destinations.
Where to Play: Heritage Resorts and Four Seasons Anahita Mauritius both offer high-end tennis programs with international pros.
Programs: Sign up for doubles socials, junior academies, or one-on-one training.
Off Court: Snorkel coral reefs, take a catamaran cruise, or explore Black River Gorges National Park.
🗺️ Planning Your Tennis Adventure
Booking Tips
-
Bring Your Own Racket: Most clubs rent gear, but your preferred string tension and grip matter on unfamiliar surfaces.
-
Book Early: Resort programs and clay courts fill quickly in peak season.
-
Mix Competition and Leisure: Combine lessons, friendly matches, and rest days to stay sharp but refreshed.
-
Use Apps: Check PlayTennis, CourtReserve, and Tennis Finder for court availability worldwide.
Conclusion: Every Court Is a Passport
Tennis has become a universal language — one rally, one handshake, one shared passion that transcends borders.
Whether you’re chasing the Mediterranean sun, Alpine serenity, or Australian energy, these ten destinations prove that the love of the game can take you anywhere.
So pack your racket, grab your passport, and let the world be your court.