Pickleball Magazine 8-1 | Page 30

travel

Premier Pickleball Destinations
By Laura Gainor
Tres Palapas

Take a trip down the pristine Pacific Coast with Pickleball in the Sun as we travel to Baja California Sur , Mexico , to take in the undeniable beauty of Tres Palapas , the premiere Baja pickleball resort .

Tres Palapas Baja Pickleball Resort is a one-of-akind global pickleball destination in the heart of Los Barriles , Mexico . Just minutes north of the popular tourist destination of Cabo San Lucas , Tres Palapas offers tourists an unbeatable combination of competitive pickleball , sand beaches , good eats , and sunshine .
With a passion for pickleball and vacation combined , Tres Palapas was built by Paul Bland and Sally Meecham , who just seven years ago went all-in to purchase land and build a unique pickleball destination — and have since perfected the secret sauce for “ community ” tourism .
“ We are proud of our contribution to pickleball , to Mexico and the wonderful community of Los Barriles ,” said Meecham . “ Now in our sixth season of operation as a ‘ top global must-see pickleball destination ,’ we can say with confidence we have gained a solid understanding of the business and economics of pickleball and community .”
This is the perfect destination that can cater to the competitive pickler , the enthusiastic social pickler , or those just looking to get some sunshine on the courts . If you happen to be a local ( Lucky you !), Tres Palapas offers membership opportunities . The venue boasts 10 welcoming pickleball and championship courts and has come to be recognized as the “ Number-One
Pickleball Destination in Mexico ,” the # 4 “ Top Global Destination ,” and a 2018 “ Top Baja Must-See .”
In addition to casual play , Tres Palapas hosts a variety of events each month across all 10 of the courts . From happy hour pickleball sessions to the Hot Summer Night Pickleball series , the venue offers players a chance to get together and play the sport on both a social and competitive basis . Additionally , it provides members with the opportunity to attend clinics , take pickleball lessons , and participate in exciting tournaments throughout the season .
It is not uncommon for pickleball enthusiasts to return year after year to Tres Palapas . Mike Branon , author of the book “ Pickleball & The Art of Living ,” already has his next trip planned for May .
“ A typical day might consist of an early morning walk on the beach , coffee or a smoothie at the great cafe at the club , several hours of pickleball , and lunch in town followed by a poolside or beachfront siesta ,” said Branon . “ For the more adventurous , there are ATVs for rent , paddleboarding , kayaking and kitesurfing . I recommend a full week here so you can fully explore and relax into the Mexican vibe .”
While Tres Palapas is home to courts only , there are a variety of convenient vacation and rental properties just moments away . On-site accommodations are under construction and are expected to be ready this March .
Visit pickleballinthesun . com for a more in-depth review of Tres Palapas from seasoned traveler Mike Branon , and find out why it ’ s the “# 1 Pickleball Destination in Mexico .” •
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