Game, Set, Match: Where to Play Tennis in LA—Public Courts vs. Private Clubs

Where to Play Tennis in LA—Public Courts vs. Private Clubs

Sunrise over Griffith Park. The quiet bounce of a ball at Westwood. On any given day, LA’s courts pulse with energy—the true heartbeat of the city’s tennis community. But what really separates the free and low-cost public courts from high-end private enclaves like Brentwood Country Club or Los Angeles Tennis Club (LATC)? More importantly, how can every Angeleno maximize their time on the court?

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

Breaking Down the Cost—and the Experience

Tennis Resource	Location	Cost	Access/Amenities
Griffith Park Tennis Courts	Los Feliz	$8–$12/hr	12 courts, lighted, scenic, walk-ins welcome
Westwood Recreation Center	Westwood	Free before 5pm; $12/hr after	8 courts, beginner lessons, reservations available
Echo Park Courts	Echo Park	Free	9 courts, open sunrise–10pm, no restrooms on-site
Poinsettia Recreation Center	West Hollywood	$8/hr	Well-maintained, social scene, PlayByPoint reservations
Brentwood Country Club	Brentwood	$$$ (private membership, reported $1000s/year)	Luxury amenities, training staff, advanced booking, exclusivity
Los Angeles Tennis Club (LATC)	Hancock Park	$$$ (private, by referral, initiation fees + annual dues)	Historic venue, 16 courts, tournaments, dining, locker rooms

Choosing Your Court: The Real-World LA Factors

• Traffic & Location: Court access in LA often comes down to traffic patterns and neighborhood parking. Griffith Park and Westwood both benefit from central locations and good public transit links.
• Availability: Public courts operate mostly on a first-come, first-served basis. Some, like Westwood Recreation Center, offer advance reservations—critical for after-work hours.
• Community Vibe: LA’s public courts are melting pots—players range from college athletes to weekend warriors. Private clubs, by contrast, offer networking, events, and a who’s-who of tennis society.
• Weather Impact: With year-round sun but rare rain delays, LA tennis thrives outdoors. However, true indoor tennis courts are extremely rare; most play is under the open sky.
• Amenities: Expect minimal amenities at public courts—often just basic bathrooms and a water fountain. Private clubs feature everything from pro shops to on-site dining.

Making the Most of LA Tennis—On Any Budget

• Arrive early at popular public courts to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.
• Use reservation options—like at Westwood or Poinsettia—to lock in peak-hour slots.
• Join free platforms like PlayTennisLA to connect with local partners and organize matches, maximizing your playtime even with a busy schedule.
• Explore hidden gems (try El Cariso Park for valley views or Anderson Park in Redondo Beach for easy access) to dodge crowds and find new hitting partners.
• Mix it up—play at both public courts and, if you get an invite, sample the private club scene for a taste of LA tennis luxury.

From the bohemian energy of Echo Park to the refined luxury of Brentwood’s private clubs, tennis in Los Angeles is defined by its diversity and accessibility. Court availability and cost are real challenges, but the city’s vibrant culture, peerless weather, and deep pool of passionate players make the search for a great match worth it.

Finding consistent tennis partners in Los Angeles can be challenging with busy schedules and traffic. 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 experience the best of tennis in Los Angeles, no matter your budget.