Game, Set, Match: The Real Price of Tennis in Los Angeles

The Real Price of Tennis in Los Angeles

On any weekend morning, Griffith Park’s public tennis courts pulse with the rhythms of rallies and laughter, drawing Angelenos from every corner of the city. For some, it’s about feeling that first serve slice through the cool morning air—for others, it’s about playing where Hollywood legends and local stars have trained. But no matter your love for the game, one question unites players from Echo Park to Brentwood: how much does it really cost to play tennis in LA?

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

Public Courts: Affordable Access, Local Challenges

Los Angeles boasts a vibrant network of public courts spread across legendary neighborhoods. Facilities like Echo Park, Griffith Park, and Plummer Park in West Hollywood cater to players looking for accessible play without breaking the bank. Early mornings or midday hours offer your best shot at snagging a court, as post-work and weekend slots fill up fast—especially when the sun finally dips and temperatures cool off in the evening.

Tennis Resource	Location	Details
Echo Park	Echo Park	Free, sunrise to 10 PM, first-come
Westwood Recreation Center	Westwood	Free (weekday mornings), $12/hour (evenings/weekends), reservations available
Plummer Park	West Hollywood	$8/hour, reserve via PlayByPoint app
Cheviot Hills Rec Center	West LA	$12/hour, 14 courts, family-friendly
El Dorado Tennis Center	Long Beach	$10–$15/hour, youth/senior discounts

• Most LA public courts are outdoors—true indoor courts are nearly nonexistent, so prepare for the elements.
• Weekday mornings offer the lowest prices and shortest wait times, making them ideal for flexible schedules.
• Apps like PlayByPoint streamline reservations, especially at popular locations like Plummer Park.
• Court conditions can vary; some might need a little love, but LA’s diverse tennis scene more than makes up for it in personality.

Private Clubs: Luxury with a Price Tag

For those seeking a plush tennis experience, LA delivers with a roster of iconic private clubs. These facilities combine perfectly groomed surfaces, professional coaching, and social events, attracting passionate competitors and families alike. Yet the premiums are steep—often limiting access to a select crowd.

Tennis Club	Location	Cost	Highlights
Beverly Hills Tennis Club	Beverly Hills	$20,000 initiation + $400/mo	USPTA staff, pristine courts
Brentwood Country Club	Brentwood	$200,000 initiation + $1,000/mo	Six courts, golf, fine dining

• Exclusive amenities include pools, spas, gyms, and child care—plus well-organized leagues and tournaments.
• Membership often requires a waitlist and a sponsoring member referral.
• Expect beautifully maintained courts and reliable court availability, regardless of the hour.
• For many, the networking and social scene are as valuable as the sport itself.

Maximizing Value: Tips for Every LA Tennis Budget

• Check weekday morning or midday slots at public courts for the best rates and least crowding.
• Reserve courts ahead using PlayByPoint or Rec & Parks reservation systems, especially in peak neighborhoods like Westwood or Silver Lake.
• Consider discounted youth and senior rates at centers like El Dorado for family or multi-generational outings.
• If you crave regular competition and premium amenities, private clubs like Beverly Hills or Brentwood deliver—just be ready for sticker shock.
• Avoid paying for court time you don’t use by organizing matches with friends or groups through free platforms.

Connecting LA’s Tennis Community

One of the biggest hurdles for LA tennis fans isn’t just the price—it’s finding partners whose schedules and skill levels match yours. With LA’s notorious traffic, booking a court across town during rush hour can turn a casual hit into an ordeal. PlayTennisLA steps in to solve this, connecting Angelenos to fellow players by skill, neighborhood, and preferred times—completely free. In a city as sprawling and diverse as Los Angeles, this can be the difference between playing once a month and getting out several times a week.

Whether you’re rallying at a free public court in Griffith Park or competing under the palms at a storied private club, LA offers tennis opportunities for every lifestyle and budget. To stay in the game and find your next partner or group, sign up for PlayTennisLA and experience the city’s thriving tennis community—on your own terms, at your own price point.