San Diego County News Center reports the Active Recreation Area at Waterfront Park (northeast corner) opened with two free pickleball courts (a challenge court and an open-play court) alongside a basketball court and dog park; free equipment checkout with valid ID. Same physical courts sometimes marketed informally by a local club as the 'Little Italy Pickleball Court' since the park borders that neighborhood.
Our picks from the pickleball buying guides — chosen editorially, never by the venue and never by spend.
Paddles · Best overall
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 16mm
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Beginner paddles · Best starter feel
JOOLA Essentials
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Balls · Outdoor standard
Franklin X-40 Outdoor (12-pack)
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Waterfront Park Active Recreation Area has 2 courts.
Waterfront Park Active Recreation Area offers outdoor pickleball.
Free
Yes — Waterfront Park Active Recreation Area is open to the public at no charge.
Waterfront Park Active Recreation Area plays on concrete.
Daily 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; equipment checkout 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (summer) / 8 a.m.-7 p.m. (fall-spring)
Waterfront Park Active Recreation Area is located at 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101.
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