8 Top Pickleball Communities in the Carolinas

Pickleball is a game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels, and it is quickly gaining popularity in the United States. As a fun and engaging way to stay active and social, this sport creates a strong sense of community among players. 

Let’s take a look at this up and coming sport and some of the top pickleball communities in the Carolinas!

What is Pickleball?

Known for its fast-paced action and strategic play, pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Unlike tennis, it is played on a smaller court with a lower net, using a plastic ball and paddle. While it is a great sport for beginners of all skill levels as it is easy to learn, but can also be played at a high level of competition, making it great for its social aspect. 

Why Choose a Pickleball Community?

The best way to enjoy the sport is to live in a community that supports your passion and interest. Here at The Cliffs, we have developed a program that provides professional training on the court, along with fitness programs designed specifically for the sport’s demands.

From low-impact mobility exercises to strength training programs, we can help you take your game to the next level. Moreover, we put on many clinics and tournaments throughout the year, making it easy to meet other members. So, whether you are looking for an exciting new hobby or an enjoyable way to stay active and social, pickleball is definitely worth trying! 

Let’s take a look at a few of the top options for pickleball communities in North and South Carolina.

1. Cape Fear Pickleball Club

Located in Wilmington, NC, the Cape Fear Pickleball Club is dedicated to promoting the sport in the Southeastern region of the state. Formed in 2015, they have been helping bring pickleball players together to enjoy social events and friendly competition. The club offers professional training, and equipment rentals to help you improve your game. They even host tournaments throughout the year, so you can put your skills to the test in a competitive environment. 

2. Landfall

Also located in Wilmington, Landfall is a private gated community that is home to a state-of-the-art tennis and pickleball complex. With four lighted hard pickleball courts, players can enjoy spirited matches with other members of the community –– all while taking in the fresh ocean breeze!

3. Cresswind Charlotte

Making its way west toward the piedmont region of the state, Cresswind Charlotte is a new 55+ community that offers outdoor amenities including tennis and pickleball courts for those looking to remain active as they begin the retirement chapter of their lives. With countless urban amenities just outside the community, this is a great place for those who enjoy big-city living. 

4. The Cliffs at Glassy

If you prefer the serenity of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs at Glassy is the perfect place to enjoy the sport. Located atop Glassy Mountain in Upstate South Carolina, the private gated community is home to six pickleball courts. Here, our Director of Racquet Sports for the Mountain Region, Adri Atkinson, works hard to create a program that offers exciting clinics and tournaments to help players develop their game on all levels.

5. The Cliffs Valley

Another pickleball community at The Cliffs is The Cliffs Valley that boasts three lighted courts, perfect for nighttime play. Nestled in a lush valley at the base of soaring mountain peaks, the community offers spectacular views in every direction –– making it quite an enjoyable setting for the sport. Racquet sports professional Adri Atkinson is also responsible for the tennis and pickleball program in this community, working closely with our Wellness Director to develop opportunities for players of all skill levels.  

6. The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards

Play among the winding vineyards of Muscadine grapes at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards. With two lighted courts, pickleball can be enjoyed late into the evening. This lake community is located near the shores of Lake Keowee, offering the best of both mountain and lake living. The Director of Racquet Sports for the Lake Region, Ralph Dunbar, is a professional coach and player who helps club members improve both their technique and the mental aspects of the game.

7. The Cliffs at Keowee Falls

Featuring two lighted pickleball courts, with two more being installed and ready for use by Spring 2023, The Cliffs at Keowee Falls, another one of our three luxury lake communities. With dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and private lake shores, this is a nature-lovers paradise. Players can enjoy the breathtaking vistas while participating in the sport they are so passionate about.

8. The Cliffs at Keowee Springs

Another pickleball community located near Lake Keowee is The Cliffs at Keowee Springs. Here, members can plan to play on four pickleball courts as they take in the scenic views that the community is known for. This is also our most popular community for families, so if you are looking to get your little ones started in the sport early, this is the place for you!  

Experience More Than Just Racquet Sports at The Cliffs

Racquet sports are just one of the many ways you can make the most of life at The Cliffs. As an active community, we strive to provide our members with a variety of outdoor and indoor activities they can participate in all year round. From golf and fitness classes to private social clubs and themed holiday events we offer a range of ways to get involved –– not only at your home community but all seven communities at The Cliffs. 

If you are interested in any one of our pickleball communities, or other luxury amenities, feel free to reach out to our team to learn more. We would be delighted to show you around the communities and show you the exciting opportunities of being a member at The Cliffs.