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The newly reopened Pier Sixty-Six resort has debuted what it's calling a floating pickleball court, a full-size playing surface set in its marina along the Intracoastal Waterway. Instead of chain-link fences and suburban rec centers, players are surrounded by luxury yachts, palm trees and sweeping waterfront views. (It's probably the only pickleball match where an errant shot might end up in the marina.)
The experience is open daily from 9 am to 8 pm, with one-hour reservations starting at $60 for up to four players. Paddles, balls and bottled water are included, along with chilled oshibori towels to help players cool off after a match. Additional 30-minute sessions can be added for $30. The court welcomes players of all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned pickleball devotee or simply curious to see what all the fuss is about.
Before you picture the court bobbing wildly with every volley, don't worry: the floating platform is securely anchored in the marina, providing a stable playing surface while still delivering the novelty of competing over the water.
The attraction is one of the latest additions to Pier Sixty-Six following the landmark waterfront property's $1 billion redevelopment. The 32-acre resort now has 325 guest rooms and suites, a marina capable of accommodating superyachts up to 400 feet long, a 13,000-square-foot spa, multiple pools and a dozen restaurants and bars.
If you're planning to make a day of it, keep in mind that a pickleball reservation doesn't include access to the resort's pools; those require a separate day pass. But between rooftop cocktails, luxury yachts and now a pickleball court that literally floats, Pier Sixty-Six is making a strong case that Fort Lauderdale's waterfront can double as an oversized playground.