Ace Your Next Match: The Best Outdoor Tennis Courts by LA Neighborhood

The Best Outdoor Tennis Courts by LA Neighborhood

The sun burns away the coastal haze as tennis players race for court time across Los Angeles. Neighborhoods buzz with the sound of serves and rallies—each court telling its own story in LA’s fiercely passionate tennis community.

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

Smash in Style: Top Public Courts in Every Corner

Tennis Resource	Location	Details
Griffith Park Tennis Courts	Los Feliz	12 lighted courts, $8–$12/hr, tranquil setting, first-come/permit
Cheviot Hills Rec Center	West LA	14 courts, rarely crowded, public, all levels welcomed
Michelle & Barack Obama Sports Complex	Baldwin Hills	12 courts, free, energetic community, events
Plummer Park	West Hollywood	Reservation app, free or $8/hr, lively social scene
Westwood Rec Center	Westwood	8 courts, free before 5pm on weekdays, $12/hr after
El Cariso Park	Sylmar	4 courts, free, scenic valley views, inviting vibe

Griffith Park Tennis Courts in Los Feliz let you out-ace the crowds with a dozen tree-lined courts. Players love the mountain air and the option for permit or first-come play. Early risers get the best experience, especially before the Southern California sun hits its stride. Cheviot Hills Rec Center in West LA feels like an escape from the city—spacious, quiet, and welcoming for singles or doubles. Over in Baldwin Hills, the Michelle & Barack Obama Sports Complex models community tennis at its finest. Free to play and always buzzing, it’s where new friends and fierce rivals meet—no membership required.

Hidden Gems: Where LA’s Locals Go for Tennis

Dodging the weekend rush? Seek out LA’s "hidden gem" tennis courts, tucked away from the traffic jams and crowds:

• El Cariso Park (Sylmar): Famous for valley views, free play, and a tight-knit tennis family. "It's like finding a secret oasis in the north Valley," says regular Arshak.
• Vermont Canyon Tennis Complex: Nestled in Griffith Park, these secluded courts feel miles away from the chaos of Hollywood but are just minutes from Los Feliz.
• Ocean View Park (Santa Monica): Play with a Pacific Ocean backdrop—the ultimate LA tennis experience for those who crave fresh air and surf breezes.

Private Tennis Clubs: For the Committed Player

While LA thrives on public access, tennis purists know the draw of private clubs. However, membership costs and limited spots mean they aren’t for everyone. Always confirm a facility is tennis-specific before joining—many high-end LA clubs focus on pickleball or squash instead.

• Many private clubs charge initiation fees from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually.
• Some clubs have waitlists of several months due to limited capacity.
• Most offer court reservations, coaching, and organized tournaments—but check ahead for open spots and real tennis amenities.

Local Challenges: Weather, Waitlists, and LA Life

Court availability remains a classic LA tennis headache—especially on weekends or after work. Weather rarely interrupts play, but summer’s heat and Santa Ana winds can push even the most dedicated players to hunt for early morning or twilight slots. Parking is always at a premium, particularly in trendy neighborhoods like West Hollywood and Santa Monica.

How to Find Courts, Partners, and Play—For Free

Finding consistent tennis partners in Los Angeles can be challenging with busy schedules and relentless 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, discover local courts, and join a thriving network of LA tennis fans.

Don’t let another sunny day slip by—grab your racquet, claim your court, and make your mark on the LA tennis scene. Head to PlayTennisLA, and let the city be your court!