Planning a Hilton Head vacation and looking for something fun and active the whole family can enjoy? Pickleball and tennis are two great ways to get moving and spend time together—but they’re actually pretty different games. If you’ve been wondering which one to try first, I’ve got you covered with a quick and easy breakdown.
The Basics: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start with the court. Tennis courts are larger—great for running around and working up a sweat. A standard court is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles (a little wider for doubles). Pickleball courts are smaller, just 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, which makes the game feel more manageable, especially for kids, grandparents, or anyone looking for low-impact fun.
And then there’s the gear. Pickleball paddles are smaller and solid—think oversized ping pong paddles. Tennis rackets are larger, with strings and more weight behind each swing. The pickleball is a lightweight plastic ball with holes, while the tennis ball is soft, fuzzy, and bounces much higher.
Which One is Easier to Learn? From experience (and watching my own kids and in-laws try both), pickleball is usually easier to pick up. It’s less intense, the rules are straightforward, and the smaller court size means less running and fewer wild swings. Great for mixed ages and abilities! Tennis is a bit more of a workout, perfect for teens, young adults, or anyone who likes a faster pace and more full-body movement.
How Do You Play Pickleball? Here’s the simple version: Serve underhand, below the waist. Let the ball bounce once on each side before hitting volleys. Stay out of the “kitchen” (the no-volley zone near the net). Only the serving team scores. First to 11 points (win by 2) takes the game! And How About Tennis? A little more structure, but still easy to follow: Serve overhand into the opposite service box. Hit the ball before or after it bounces (except the return of serve—it has to bounce first). Score goes: love, 15, 30, 40, game. Win six games to take a set—and most matches are best of three.
So… Which Should You Play First? If your vacation style includes friendly competition, lots of movement, and breaking a sweat, tennis might be your go-to. But if you’re looking for laughs, simple rules, and a game that everyone from your youngest to your grandparents can play together, pickleball is a fantastic choice. Luckily, Hilton Head has courts for both all over the island—so bring your gear or rent some while you’re here and give both games a try. You might just find your family’s next favorite vacation tradition!
