Serving Up LA’s Best: Outdoor Tennis Courts by Neighborhood

Outdoor Tennis Courts by Neighborhood

Saturday mornings in LA are a rally of energy—balls popping on sunlit courts from Griffith Park to Westwood, players hustling for open spots, and friendships forming across the net. In the city’s sprawling tennis scene, every neighborhood court has its own personality—some are serene hideaways, some are the pulsing heart of social play, and a few are historic icons where legends honed their craft.

"The LA tennis scene has something for everyone, from beginners to advanced players." – Local Tennis Coach

Public Court Favorites: Open Access & Authentic Community

Finding your spot for tennis in Los Angeles is a badge of honor—and a test of timing. Popular public courts fill quickly on weekends, but their local flavor and accessibility make them essential for every player.

Tennis Resource	Location	Details
Griffith Park Tennis Courts	Los Feliz	12 lighted courts, $8–$12/hr, lush setting, walk-up & permit
Cheviot Hills Rec Center	West LA	14 courts, rarely crowded, public, programs for all levels
Michelle & Barack Obama Sports Complex	Baldwin Hills	12 courts, free, vibrant events, strong community
Echo Park Courts	Echo Park	9 courts, free, lighted until 10pm, no restrooms on site
Westwood Rec Center	Westwood	8 courts, free before 5pm weekdays, $12/hr after, beginner-friendly
El Cariso Park	Sylmar	4 courts, free, valley views, community vibe
Plummer Park	West Hollywood	Reservations app, free or $8/hr, social hub, lessons

• Griffith Park is the city’s scenic sanctuary—an oasis with breathtaking views of the Observatory. It’s where both seasoned players and casual hitters mingle beneath the trees for early-morning or sunset sets.
• Cheviot Hills offers a crowd-free experience, well-maintained surfaces, and an unhurried pace—ideal for players seeking quiet practice or a relaxing doubles match.
• Echo Park courts are famed for their lights and urban backdrop. Free play all day, but bring your patience for street parking and plan restroom breaks—facilities are off-site.
• Obama Sports Complex bustles with inclusive community events and is a go-to for those craving a diverse tennis crowd—an LA rarity that welcomes all comers.
• Westwood Rec Center stands out for welcoming beginners, flexibility in booking, and affordability during weekday afternoons.
• El Cariso Park, tucked up in Sylmar, wins over regulars with its valley panorama and authentic local spirit—every visit feels like joining a neighborhood gathering.
• Plummer Park epitomizes West Hollywood’s lively scene, with a robust social calendar and lessons for players eager to connect.

Private Clubs & Historic Icons: The LA Tennis Scene’s Crown Jewels

For players seeking top-tier surfaces, storied traditions, and exclusive amenities, LA’s private clubs deliver luxury and legacy. The LA Tennis Club, a century-old institution in Hancock Park, boasts 14 hard and two rare clay courts—home to legends like Billie Jean King and Jimmy Connors. Amenities include a bar, pool, upgraded gym, and a palpable sense of tennis history; membership fees are available upon request and offer access to a lively calendar of events.

Beverly Hills Tennis Club and Brentwood Country Club also shine for those who value coaching, player networking, and meticulously maintained grounds. Malibu Racquet Club, perched near the Pacific, pairs world-class courts with ocean air—an emblem of the city’s unique blend of glamor and grit. Fees and memberships vary, so contact clubs directly for info.

Culture and Challenges: Playing Tennis in Los Angeles

• LA tennis players cherish outdoor play but battle for prime court time—especially during peak hours and after work.
• Court reservations range from classic walk-up boards to modern apps; first-come can mean early wake-ups at hotspots like Griffith Park and Cheviot Hills.
• Weather is a friend—until it’s not. Gorgeous most of the year, but summer heat waves and Santa Ana winds can alter outdoor routines.
• Indoor courts are virtually non-existent, so scheduling around rain or extreme heat is an LA tennis rite of passage.
• Players flock to free coaching clinics and city-run programs at spots like Echo Park and Obama Sports Complex, reflecting LA’s tennis-for-all ethos.

Find Your Court, Find Your Crew: Join PlayTennisLA

Finding consistent tennis partners in Los Angeles can be challenging with busy schedules, notorious traffic, and court availability. PlayTennisLA solves this by connecting you with players at your skill level in your neighborhood, completely free. Sign up today to find your next match—and join the thousands of Angelenos making the city’s tennis scene legendary. For more spotlights on specific neighborhoods and tennis tips, check out our latest neighborhood guide!