Nestled along the windswept shores of the Pacific Northwest, where the ocean’s siren’s song calls to the towering emerald forests, lies the enchanting Long Beach Peninsula. With its serene beaches and quaint charm, this idyllic coastal paradise has become a haven for America’s fastest-growing sport. Welcome to the world of pickleball in Washington, a journey that weaves through history and community and leads straight to the beachfront beauty of the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort.

The History of Pickleball in Washington

The humble beginnings of the nation’s quickest-growing pastime began in 1965, less than 200 miles from our evergreen shoreline. One pine-scented summer afternoon, three inventive fathers found themselves confronted with their restless children’s boredom.  Challenged with the need to keep their teenagers entertained, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum worked together to create a new game on a backyard badminton court. A scavenged perforated ball, handmade paddles, and the spirit of competition stoked the fires of invention. Here, amidst the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest, pickleball was born.

Pickleball in Washington has since blossomed, quickly growing from a backyard pastime to a beloved national phenomenon. It spread from the tranquil shores of Bainbridge Island to bustling cities and quiet towns, eventually landing on our peninsula. It embodies the spirit of innovation, play, and community that defines the Pacific Northwest. It makes perfect sense that it is synonymous with the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort. 

Playing Pickleball in Long Beach, Washington

The Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort, a beacon of coastal charm and tranquility on the Long Beach Peninsula, offers the perfect setting for pickleball in Washington. We sit directly along one of the world’s longest beaches, framed by rich forestry salt-kissed from our backyard ocean. Though we are a mere 10 minutes from downtown Long Beach, our secluded setting feels like a tranquil escape. We’re the perfect setting for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts who like their game set to the soundtrack of the sea. Imagine waking up to the gentle murmur of the ocean with a state-of-the-art pickleball and tennis facility steps from your front door. 

Our 13,000-square-foot complex nestles neatly on our 28-acre property. Cradled amidst the sea pines and bathed in the golden glow of the Pacific sun, the building is well-appointed to indulge in the sport. It features six pickleball courts (or two tennis courts) and ample space for friendly games and competitive tournaments. In addition to facility access, hotel guests can use the resort’s fitness center and pool.

The meticulously maintained complex has hosted an impressive list of pickleball pros, including some of the sport’s top names. Camps with pros like Devin Schmidt, Brett Noel, Mark Milner, and KaSandra Gehrke were wildly successful. But our current pro, Roman Soda, continually draws pickleball fans to our shoreside resort.  

Our Onsite Pro, Roman Sada

Our esteemed onsite pro, Roman Sada, is a former professional tennis player from the Czech Republic. Currently a USPTA-certified Tennis and Pickleball professional, he has over 20 years of experience teaching players of all ages. But Roman’s magnetic personality cements him in a class of his own. His charming demeanor, larger-than-life persona, and insightful coaching style make learning and mastering pickleball a memorable experience.

Roman’s dedication to fostering a love for pickleball in Washington is evident in every lesson and clinic he conducts. Whether you’re a beginner looking to grasp the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, Roman’s guidance ensures that every moment on the court is enriching and fun.

More Than Pickleball on the Peninsula

While we are home to the only place to play indoor pickleball on the peninsula, our resort and surrounding area offer more than a paddling good time. Freshen up after your match in one of our sumptuous suites and take a short drive to our charming local hot spots. In less time than it takes to play one game of pickleball, you can reach five stellar state parks, stunning art galleries, fun family activities, exceptional live music, and multiple quirky museums. In 10 minutes, you’ll be experiencing our exceptional breweries, farm-to-table bistros, the best coffee on the coast, and our celebrated, world-famous oysters. With an unparalleled host of options at your fingertips, you can create a new adventure with every visit to our coastal hideaway.

Paddles Up at the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort

Playing pickleball in Washington, especially at the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort, is more than just a sport—it celebrates good times, nature, and life’s simple pleasures. Find yourself swept up in the magic of the game and the spirit of the Pacific Northwest while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Long Beach Peninsula. Grab your paddles and meet us on our court by the coast!