Atop the Fullerton Bay Hotel in Singapore, a new pickleball court has recently emerged, allowing players to enjoy their game with the stunning Marina Bay Sands as a backdrop. Since its launch in February, staying guests can reserve the court for SGD40 (US$31) per hour. Non-residents, however, need to meet a minimum spending of SGD20 on services in addition to the court fee, according to the hotel’s website.
A Slice of Pickleball Paradise
Meanwhile, at the Novotel and Mercure Singapore on Stevens—a dual-hotel marvel—outdoor tennis courts have been transformed into dedicated pickleball facilities, now managed by Anytime Fitness. Since opening its pickleball offerings in February 2025, this complex has witnessed a remarkable 30% surge in bookings, with over half of those made by guests not staying at the hotels, according to The Straits Times.
Evenings and weekends are prime time for pickleball fanatics, said general manager Piotr Kupiec, who noted that enthusiasm is on the rise, evidenced by inquiries about hosting tournaments. In a charming twist, even weddings are getting in on the action: one couple celebrated their union at Novotel and incorporated a photo shoot on the pickleball court, melding romance and recreation.
Four Seasons Joins the Fun
Following this trend, the Four Seasons Hotel opened its own pickleball and padel court, converting an outdoor tennis area in January. Tatler Asia has hailed this court as “an elegant escape just off Orchard Road, and a serene setting for play.” Since the conversion, the hotel has seen a 37% increase in bookings across all racquet sports, as reported by Peter Draminsky, the hotel’s regional vice-president and general manager. The hotel even hosted its inaugural two-day pickleball and padel tournament in August, signaling a growing interest in competitive play.
Court rental rates vary, with prices for in-house guests set between SGD35 and SGD40 per hour, while public players pay between SGD35 and SGD60. Budget-conscious enthusiasts can seize discounted rates during off-peak hours on weekdays from noon to 4 p.m.
Lessons, Tournaments, and More
For those eager to sharpen their skills, both hotels provide private and group lessons. At Four Seasons, in-house guests can book a private session for one hour priced at SGD150, while Novotel and Mercure’s offerings start at SGD100, including group and corporate options. Additionally, Novotel and Mercure are noticing a modest uptick in stay requests linked to pickleball tournaments, according to Kupiec.
Looking forward, these hotels are eager to incorporate pickleball into packages for special occasions, anniversaries, and corporate events. They are also exploring opportunities to create tournaments that blend competitive play with pool access and dining experiences. “By bringing pickleball into our precinct, we’re not just offering a sport,” Kupiec explained, “We’re crafting a resort-in-the-city experience where play, dining, wellness, and community converge.” Who knew a racquet sport could play such a pivotal role in urban escapism?
Questions & Answers
What has prompted the rise in pickleball popularity at hotels in Singapore?
The growing interest in pickleball, particularly in urban settings, has led hotels like Novotel and Mercure to convert tennis courts into pickleball facilities, driving a significant increase in bookings from both guests and non-guests.
How do hotel pickleball offerings differ for guests versus non-guests?
Staying guests typically pay around SGD40 per hour to book a court, while non-residents must meet a minimum spending requirement of SGD20 in addition to the court fee.
What future plans do the hotels have for integrating pickleball?
The hotels are exploring various ways to weave pickleball into packages for celebrations and corporate events, and are considering tournaments that combine play with amenities like pool access and dining experiences.
